Kennedy Aboye is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

I had been working at the Ethiopian 
Broadcasting Corporation (EBC), since 2011.
After leaving EBC I joined an online media called Al Ain News in December, 2019, which is owned by 
International Media Investment of The United Arab Read moreEmirates, until I left it on 16th June 2021. Since 17th June of 2021 I am working as VoA Horn Africa Vendor at Addis Ababa.
Through my study and career I have developed sound understanding of journalistic activities and 
careers; world politics and international relations. I also gained public speaking skills that 
improved my view point and dedication to analyze different activities and developments all at 
the local, regional and international levels that will feat the journalistic world. I have done very 
well academically and participated in discussions and debates, by which I polished my 
interpersonal and communication skills.

For further information I have attached my CV and relevant copies of testimony with this letter.

Curriculum Vitae:
Name: Kennedy Abate Aboye
Sex: Male
Date of birth: May, 1988 G.C.
Place of birth: Wondo Genet, Ethiopia
Residence: Addis Ababa
Nationality: Ethiopian
Marital status: Single

Career History:
March, 2011-May, 2018: Reporter at Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation’s news, sport and 
entertainment departments, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
June, 2018-November, 2019: Senior Editor at Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation, Ethiopia.
December, 2019-June 15, 2021: Editor at Al-Ain news, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
June 16,2021-Still: Stringer at VoA Horn Africa

Solomon Yimer is an experienced journalist based in Addis Ababa Ethiopia. He used to write for Addis Fortune and The Ethiopian Reporter newspapers and other local and international publications as well. He also worked as content editor at Addis Zeybe, Addis Ababa based digital media outlet. Read moreCurrently he is working as a freelance journalist.

YONATAN ZEBIDEWOS is a journalist based in Awassa, Ethiopia working for Voice Of America (VOA). He have worked for Debub Radio and television agency and for Ethiopian News Agency not less than for 7years. He have covered different political, economic and social stories.

Gebremichael Gebremedhin is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Eskinder Firew is an esteemed journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with a career spanning about two decades at the Voice of America, Horn of Africa Service, since joining in 2005. His reporting primarily focuses on conflict resolution and political affairs, with a special emphasis on Ethiopia Read moreand the Horn of Africa, where he has diligently covered the peace talks mediated by the regional bloc IGAD. Eskinder's work has been pivotal in elucidating the efforts to establish a transitional government and the persistent challenges in the war-torn region, thereby enhancing the understanding of international relations and civil strife in South Sudan.

Eskinder adeptly reports in Amharic, Ethiopia's official language and English , catering to a diverse audience. His proficiency in English was particularly instrumental during the South Sudan peace talks in Addis Ababa, where he reported continuously for the South Sudan in Focus Program. His versatility as a journalist was also showcased when he served as a pool reporter during former Second Lady Jill Biden's visit to Ethiopia in July 2016.

His interviews included exclusive sit-down interviews with the current 
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, foreign ambassadors and diplomats.

"Eskinder is an established journalistic institution in Ethiopia, with a long￾time following and a particular skill set that is unique value in Addis", a former chief of VOA’s Horn of Africa Service said.

Prior to his tenure at the Voice of America, Eskinder honed his journalistic skills at Ethiopian Television, where he was recognized as an award-winning journalist. His roles there included reporter, editor, and program producer, which equipped him with a robust foundation in media and journalism, setting the stage for his subsequent contributions to international reporting and his insightful coverage of critical political events in the Horn of Africa.

Dawit E. Gelmo is a journalist based in, Ethiopia. Gelmo is a graduate of Addis Ababa University School of Journalism and Communication and currently working as stringer for the Voice of America Horn of Africa Service. Previously, he was working from Nairobi Kenya precisely on the migration and Read morerefugee for VOA. Now he has been relocated back to his home country by the same entity he feeds contents for (VOA). 

Previously Mr. Gelmo has worked for Fana Broadcasting for 2 years and eleven months, he has also worked for Filmaid International and several media monitoring organizations.

Tsehay Damtew is a VOA  journalist in Ethiopia, based in Addis Ababa. She has been working for more than two years in VOA as a horn service stringer since December 2018. She had been working in FBC as a reporter, senior reporter and Producer too. She had also worked on her own promotion and Read moreadvertising businesses. And she is a given journalist wo is working diligently.

Dereje Gonfa is a journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya. He has worked as a freelance journalist and language translator for the past ten years. His previous experience includes working as a senior journalist at the Addis Standard and as the communication coordinator for an advocacy organization for Read morehuman rights. Currently, he works as a journalist for BBC Horn of Africa. He has also conducted research, interviewed sources, drafted reports, and conducted analyses. He is an excellent writer of reports, analyses, and feature articles due to his expertise in East Africa and the international political situation.

Negussie Aklilu is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

I am Dessalegn Masrie, an experienced journalist and media professional with a strong academic background holding BA in Political Science and International Relations, MA in International Relations and Diplomacy at Addis Ababa University. Currently, pursuing PhD in Peace and Security Studies at the Read moresame University.

As a senior English-language news reporter at Addis Media Network, I have led the production of over 60 TV programs focusing on the Nile politics by inviting hydro-politics and Nile experts to provide impactful political analysis. Apart from that, one of the programs I hosted, "The Diplomatic Corner," remains a weekly format and has been adopted by other media outlets. Through this show, I have interviewed over 47 ambassadors. I also frequently provide analysis on national, regional, and international affairs on various media stations in Ethiopia.

In addition, I serve as a committee member responsible for designing formats for Addis TV, FM 96.3 Radio, and Addis Lisan Newspaper. With my team, I have created around 126 media formats featuring unique techniques and styles. I have designed 11 program formats exclusively for the English Desk, assessing production, presentation, and time slots.

I have expertise in professional graphic design, video editing, camerawork, and content creation. I am an author of 14 bestselling books, published by Gizuf Digital Service. As a co-founder and former managing editor of BTV, a digital media startup, I provided innovative solutions to businesses and financial institutions.

Recognizing the importance of media in business, innovation, and FinTech, I established and serve as the president of the Ethiopian Business and Economy Journalists Association. My aim is to empower and enhance the capabilities of business and economic reporters in both private and public media outlets. My expertise spans journalism, media, entrepreneurship, and education, allowing me to make a meaningful impact now and on.

Hello,

I'm Loic Samuel A.K Youth, a journalist currently working at the UN office in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. My experience has led me from traditional journalism in Washington DC at Voice of America to organizational communication at UNECA. However, I am still adept at shooting and packaging Read morestories.

Yikunoamlak Mulugeta is a TV and Film Producer and Director based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He has produced different entertainment and thought provoking features for local tv stations in the country.

Meleskachew Amiha is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Maya Misikir is a seasoned freelance journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with a rich background in both print and broadcast media, including radio and television. Her work primarily focuses on Ethiopian politics, civil rights, and social issues, and she is known for her insightful coverage Read moreof current affairs for Voice of America (VOA). In addition to her reporting for VOA, Maya contributes in-depth analysis to various other publications, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to thorough journalism.

Her reporting has shed light on the progress and challenges of women's political participation in Ethiopia, delving into the roles that societal norms and institutional support play in achieving gender parity and empowerment. Maya's dedication to civil rights is evident in her work, which often explores the intersection of politics and social justice.

Maya's journalistic expertise extends to covering significant events such as the Ethiopian civil war, where she has reported on the peace agreement and the disarmament of Tigrayan forces. She has also examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Tigray conflict on Ethiopia's tourism industry, highlighting the country's efforts to rejuvenate this sector through cultural events like the Epiphany festival. Her comprehensive reporting provides audiences with a nuanced understanding of the complexities facing Ethiopia today.

Mitiku Fekadu is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I am a responsible and committed journalist who displays an ability to write Balanced, informative and interesting stories that give all involved parties an Opportunity to have their say. A quick learner who can absorb new ideas and can Read morecommunicate clearly and effectively. Possessing excellent bonding skills and an enquiring mind that helps to win over the confidence of people. Multi skilled with a ability to build strong working relationships with fellow investigators, photographers, columnists and news editors. 

CAREER HISTORY
Oromia Radio and Television. (OBN) 
JOURNALIST - March 1, 2012 - August 30, 2014
Working as a Radio reporter as part of a team of producer, providing full
Coverage of social, political and economic events.

Oromia Broadcasting Service (OBS TV).
JOURNALIST - January 1, 2015 -September, 2016.
Working as program producer.

MO’AA Television (Mo’aa TV)
Program Manager and Producer — October, 2016-Augest, 2017

Oromia Broadcasting Service (OBS TV). –September, 2018 –June 25, 2020.
              Program producer
Ethiopian News Agency (ENA):- June 26, 2020---- August o6, 2020
            Program producer for online media.
European Center for Electoral Support (ECES):- --March 25, 2021---to now 
 Media Monitor Expert.

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS

HIGHER EDUCATION:

Mekelle University: 2009/10 - 2010/11
I Obtained a BA degree in Journalism and Communication.

SENIOR RESEARCH TITLE:
“A STUDY ON AUDIENCE SATISFACTION WITH ETHIOPIAN
TELEVISION ON PROGRAM OF ETHIOPIAN PARLIAMENT."

JUNIOR AND SECONDARY EDUCATION:

2007/8__2008/9:Nekemte Comprehensive school Grade 11-12, Nekemte.
2005/6__2006/7:Nekemte high school Grade 9 -10 , Nekemte.
1996/97__2003/4: Shambu Junior and Secondary School Grade 1-8.

For over a decade, I've had the privilege of shaping public discourse through impactful journalism. My career began by conducting extensive research and producing data-driven analyses for publications covering African markets.

In 2016, I stepped into my first journalism role as Research Editor, Read morewhere I thoroughly examined primary sources to craft compelling narratives exploring complex policy issues. Leaders recognized the insightful perspective I brought, prompting a promotion to Editor-in-Chief a year later. I then served as the Editor-in-Chief of Addis Fortune for another one year until end of 2017. 

As head of Ethiopia's highest circulated business magazine, Ethiopian Business Review, I led all editorial functions from 2018 to 2020. Under my guidance, the publication broke impactful stories and published many deep dives. It was tremendously rewarding to see our work thoughtfully inform discussions.

Eager to expand my experience, I next served as Co-Producer of a show called EthioBusiness at EBS Television- Ethiopia's most popular brodcaster. In this role, I set the strategic direction and oversaw production of their esteemed journalism.

Most recently, I've had the honor of serving as Editor-in-Chief at The Reporter Ethiopia - an influential independent newspaper, between 2021 and 2023. Here, I've worked to strengthen our impact through compelling narratives and investigative pieces addressing society's most pressing challenges.

Throughout my career, mentoring teams to achieve their full potential has brought me great satisfaction. Leaders consistently note my creative abilities to craft engaging explorations of complex topics and drive organizational goals. After over a decade innovating across various editorial roles, I'm passionate about continuing to use journalism as a catalyst for positive change.

Andualem Sisay Gessesse is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
I am an Ethiopian journalist with over a decade of experience in media and communications consultancy. I completed my study in Media and Communications in 2005. Since then, I have been working for several local and Read moreinternational media. 

Some of the local and international publications I worked with and is now contributing for includes: Capital newspaper of Ethiopia, The East African newspaper, www.Africareview.com, Daily Nation of Kenya, The Citizen of Tanzania, Daily Monitor of Uganda, www.newBusinessEthiopia.com, Africa Renewal of the United Nations and www.GeminiNews.org of Canada, among others. 

In 2011, I won Excellence in Journalism Award by the Ethiopian Foreign Correspondent Association in English language category. I worked for 10 months in Uganda as development reporter under fk Norway exchange program sponsored by the Norwegian Government. 

My global reporting and training travels includes: Tokyo, Japan; Stuttgart, Germany; Rome, Italy; Hilversum, The Netherlands; Delhi, India; Marrakech, Morocco; Johannesburg, South Africa; Maputo, Mozambique; Djibouti, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Kampala, Uganda and Nairobi, Kenya.

Currently in addition to www.newBusinessEthiopia.com, which I launched in 2009, I am working as resident correspondent journalist for NATION Media Group of Kenya from Ethiopia. 

As independent media and communication consultant, I have also worked for international organizations such as, UNFPA Ethiopia office (United Nations Population Fund), Kifiya Financial Technology, Techno Brain Ethiopia and Starbucks and Microsoft East and South Africa wing through the PR firm - Bertolli & Associates of Kenya.

In addition to media, I have also done researches and investigative reports for international institutions, such as Global Integrity, Devex, World Wide Web Foundation, Access Capital S.C. and many business intelligence firms from across the world.

Zecharias Zelalem is a journalist focusing on Ethiopian affairs and the Horn of Africa as a whole.

Elias Gebreselassie is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He works as a freelance reporter and contributor for Xinhua News Agency, Alertnet Climate Reuters, AlJazeera English online, AFP, New Humanitarian Mongabay and many other media outlets.

Kindalem Mesfin is a media research professional renowned for his role as a senior media researcher within Ethiopia's prominent media industry. With over 8 years of diverse experience, Kindalem has held pivotal positions including fact-checker, news editor, content creator, documentary producer, Read moreand senior qualitative researcher. His career has been marked by substantial contributions to governmental and non-governmental organizations, focusing extensively on media dynamics, gender studies, combating misinformation and disinformation, youth development, and social welfare.

Kindalem earned his graduate degree from Addis Ababa University and is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of South Africa. Through his doctoral studies, he continues to expand his academic insights and research contributions in media studies and related disciplines.

Daniel Mekonnen Yilma is a researcher and journalist with over 10 years of experience in the media and communication industry. He has worked extensively in both traditional and new media and also serves as a consultant in the media field. Educational Background in Political Science, International Read moreRelations, and Peace and Security, he consulted many international and local NGOs in communication, Ethiopia and Horn affairs, current affairs, and public relations. He is also one of the to-go about on Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa and affairs and issues.

Fasil Aregay is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Antoine Lindley is an award-winning American journalist and documentary filmmaker; he has more than 20 years in the media industry and produced over 24 documentary films on Ethiopia. Antoine made television history in Ethiopia by becoming the first foreigner to produce and host a television program Read moreon the country’s national network ETV. His television documentary series “Insight with Antoine Lindley” premiered on July 24, 2012. In collaboration with the network, Antoine has produced various documentaries that engaged and gave insight on the people, events and stories that impacted and shaped the face of Ethiopia and Africa. Antoine also has served as the Associate Press Officer for the Embassy of Ethiopia in the United States during 1998. He was presented with an award for in-depth reporting by the Illinois College Press Association in America in 1997. Antoine began his television career in on-air programming at BET Networks in America, a subsidiary of Viacom, the world’s leading branded entertainment company. Antoine Lindley currently resides in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

I am a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I report on Sports and Health issues. I have covered local and international football for several websites. I have worked as a football commentator on radio. I’m currently working on TV as a Sports Reporter. I also write Sports and Health articles Read morefor a monthly magazine. I am open for a freelance role.

Fred Harter is the Ethiopia correspondent for The Times of London. He also writes for The Independent and the Africa Report, and appears regularly on Times Radio and the BBC World Service.

He is available available for print stories, radio phoners, research and corporate work.