It is with deep sorrow that we mark the passing of H.E. Ambassador Kongit Sinegiorgis, an eminent Ethiopian diplomat and founding member of African Child Policy Forum (ACPF).
H.E. Ambassador Kongit Sinegiorgis started her career in 1962, a year before the establishment of the Organisation of the African Unity (OAU). After joining the Foreign Service of Ethiopia, she held numerous positions both in Addis Ababa and overseas for over 50 years.
Ambassador Kongit was Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the OAU (1995-96), Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the African Union and Director-General for African Affairs (2002), and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the African Union and the UN Economic Commission for Africa, from 2009-2015.
Her diplomatic service also spanned postings in Austria, Egypt, Israel, Canada,and Mexico, as well as missions in New York, Vienna, and Geneva.
She was a graduate of the University College London and a Carnegie Fellow at Columbia University, later receiving an honorary degree from Addis Ababa University. She was also recognised by Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed for her distinguished service.
As a founding member of African Child Policy Forum, she played a vital role in advancing the rights and wellbeing of children across Africa.
Her passing is a profound l loss to Ethiopia, to the African continent, and to all those committed to advancing human rights and social justice. Her legacy will endure through the institutions she helped shape, the principles she upheld, and the many lives she impacted.
The International Board of Trustees of ACPF extends its sincere condolences to her family, colleagues, and all who mourn her passing.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Amen.
Elhadj As Sy
Chairperson, International Board of Trustees