Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Mourns Passing of Ethiopia’s Trailblazing Diplomat Konjit Sinegiorgis

Addis Ababa, April 7, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has expressed deep condolences on the passing of veteran Ethiopian diplomat Konjit Sinegiorgis, describing her as a trailblazing figure in the country’s foreign service.

Renowned, trailblazing, and long-serving Ethiopian diplomat Ambassador Konjit Sinegiorgis passed away today, leaving behind a distinguished legacy in Ethiopia’s diplomacy.

In a message shared on his social media account, the Prime Minister noted that Ambassador Konjit devoted more than half a century to Ethiopia’s diplomacy, serving the nation with distinction and commitment from an early age.

He highlighted her historic role as the second female ambassador of Ethiopia, following Yodit Imru, and underscored that she was widely respected for her steadfast adherence to law, protocol, and national interests, as well as for her integrity and professionalism. The Prime Minister added that her pioneering career opened doors for generations of Ethiopian women to follow in her footsteps in diplomacy.

Prime Minister Abiy extended his heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, and the Ethiopian public, noting that her dedication and achievements would continue to inspire the country’s diplomatic community for years to come.

Ambassador Konjit Sinegiorgis joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the 1950s and went on to hold senior diplomatic positions across Ethiopia’s missions in Ottawa, Cairo, Tel Aviv, and Vienna. She also represented Ethiopia in key multilateral institutions, serving as Permanent Representative to the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.

From June 2017 to September 2018, she contributed her diplomatic expertise as a Special Advisor in the Intergovernmental Authority on Development-led South Sudan peace process, leaving a lasting legacy of service to both Ethiopia and the continent.