Three Distinguished Leaders Appointed as Ambassadors for Peace in Ethiopia

Written by UPF-Africa

Saturday, July 26, 2025

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia –  In a spirit of unity and service to humanity, the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Ethiopia held a meaningful ceremony on July 26 at its headquarters to officially appoint three outstanding Ethiopian leaders as Ambassadors for Peace. These new appointments reflect the growing commitment within the country to promote peace, social responsibility, and interfaith collaboration through leadership in action.

The New Ambassadors for Peace

1. Hon. Dr. Meseret Molla Kassahun

• A Member of the House of Peoples’ Representatives, Dr. Meseret is also:
• Assistant Professor of Health Economics at Addis Ababa University
• Advisor to the World Bank and the Ministry of Health
• Chair of the Ethio-North African Parliamentary Diplomacy​​​​​​​
• Director General of Quality Assurance at the Ministry of Education
• Secretary General of the Chamber of Commerce

Beyond his governmental roles, Dr. Meseret is a devout leader in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Deeply moved by the testimony of Archbishop Abba Yacob following the World Summit 2025 in Korea, he proactively reached out to UPF Ethiopia, expressing his desire to contribute to this global peace movement. His hope is to not only represent himself as an AFP but to serve with his entire family and inspire the younger generation to follow the path of peace.

“Rev. Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon’s vision of moral education and global harmony resonates deeply with me. I want my children to be inspired, and I truly believe this honor should be lived as a family mission.” — Dr. Meseret Molla Kassahun

2. Prof. Wendweson Fikire

A respected professor of Chemistry and Earth Sciences, Prof. Wendweson is currently pursuing his Doctor of Ministry (D.Min) at the HJ International Graduate School for Peace and Public Leadership in New York, under the mentorship of Dr. Thomas Walsh. A committed advocate of environmental harmony and interfaith dialogue, he frequently contributes to UPF activities in Ethiopia during family visits from the U.S., where he is also active with FFWPU Maryland.

“I believe God is the first environmentalist. We must live in peace with each other and with our environment. As a Christian with liberal views, I also find wisdom in many faiths. Peace requires us to look beyond divisions and find our shared humanity.” — Prof. Wendweson Fikire

3. Mrs. Nadiya Gebre-Michael Woldemariam

Founder and director of the SHEE Humanitarian Foundation, Mrs. Nadiya is passionate about women’s empowerment and literacy. Though based in Accra, Ghana, with her Ghanaian husband, she has maintained close ties to her Ethiopian roots. Upon visiting the WFWP Ethiopia office, she was moved to tears by a literacy class for women led by Country Director Mrs. Elisabeth. Her sincere dedication to uplifting women inspired UPF and WFWP leadership to nominate her as an Ambassador for Peace.

“I’ve always believed God had a purpose in taking me across cultures and countries. Being appointed as an AFP is not just an honor — it is a call to do more, to empower more, and to inspire others to become peacemakers.” — Mrs. Nadiya Woldemariam

A Stronger Network for Peace in Ethiopia

This appointment ceremony reflects UPF Ethiopia’s commitment to engaging capable, heart-driven leaders from diverse sectors—government, academia, faith communities, and grassroots organizations—to serve as examples of transformative leadership. These three new Ambassadors for Peace are expected to actively support UPF’s vision in Ethiopia and across Africa: building “One Family Under God.”

The event was attended by community members, family, and youth representatives, reinforcing the intergenerational nature of peacebuilding. As each new Ambassador received their certificate, it marked not only recognition of their past work but an invitation to future action.

UPF Ethiopia welcomes these appointments as another vital step in expanding the culture of peace across the nation and the continent.