Meles Zenawi

Date of Birth: May 8, 1955

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: August 20, 2012

Biography

Meles Zenawi Asres was an Ethiopian politician who served as the Prime Minister of Ethiopia from 1995 until his death in 2012. He was born in Adwa, Tigray, Ethiopia, and became a significant figure in Ethiopian politics as a leader of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Zenawi played a crucial role in overthrowing the Derg regime in 1991 and establishing the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) as the ruling coalition. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize Ethiopia, promote economic growth, and reduce poverty, although his administration was also criticized for human rights abuses and limiting political freedoms. Zenawi was known for his intellectual rigor and active involvement in African Union affairs, positioning Ethiopia as a key player in regional politics.

5 Interesting Facts about Meles Zenawi

1. Meles Zenawi studied medical science at Addis Ababa University but left to join the Tigray People’s Liberation Front.

2. He obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Open University of the United Kingdom.

3. Zenawi was awarded the World Peace Prize in 2002 for his efforts in promoting peace and stability in Africa.

4. Under his leadership, Ethiopia achieved one of the highest growth rates in Africa, with an average GDP growth of around 10% annually.

5. He played an instrumental role in the establishment of the African Union and its headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Meles Zenawi

1. “Democracy is not a recipe, it is a process. It is something that you have to nurture and it has to grow.”

2. “The most important factor in the development of a nation is not the resources that it has but the quality of its leadership.”

3. “Our goal is to eradicate poverty and to ensure sustainable development.”

4. “Africa should not be seen as a problem, but as an opportunity.”

5. “We need to build institutions that can last beyond individual leaders and governments.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Meles Zenawi’s net worth was estimated to be around $3 billion, largely attributed to his influence and control over the Ethiopian economy and resources.