Ethiopia: Amb. Tesfaye – A Lifelong Commitment to National Service, Literary Excellence

Ethiopia has been shaped by the dedicated services of its remarkable sons and daughters, one of who has played a pivotal role thorough various political regimes including those of Emperor Haile Selassie I and Derg.

This distinguished figure-Ambassador Tesfaye Abdi, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to a prosperous Ethiopia, never shy away from services, His diverse roles range from serving as a pilot and holding key positions in the Air Force, such as Director of Intelligence and Counterintelligence, to acting as Head of Ministry of Defense Foreign Relations Office, Overseeing cross-boundary flights permission and monitoring. He was Head of Ethiopian Armed Forces Political Affairs and Main Commissar, a member of the Central Committee for Ethiopian Workers Party, and as an Ambassador to Bulgaria, Italy and liaison to Vatican.

Additionally, he was a Permanent Representative for FAO, IFAD, WFC and WFP. Moreover, with specialization in social, political, and management psychology, he has offered valuable insights into nation’s development and safeguarding its security system.

Last Saturday marked a significant moment in the realm of literature and cultural reflection with the official launch of two groundbreaking books (“Yalefnibet Menged” literally means “The path we had been through” and “Epochal shift redefining psycho-social and political dynamics” by Ambassador Tesfaye Abdi. These works delve into a myriad of subjects, from Ethiopia’s rich historical tapestry to the complexities of contemporary leadership and psychological insights, all shaped by the author’s personal experiences.

In his book, Ambassador Tesfaye offers a unique perspective on Ethiopia’s historical significance, eloquently elaborating on the shifts in power dynamics around the globe. He draws a compelling link between the psychological makeup of leaders and the historical context of their nations. Central to his argument are the parameters he outlines on his book (Epochal shift redefining psycho-social and political dynamics), which serve as a strategic checklist for assessing the political, economic, diplomatic, and strategic conditions of any country.

As someone who has served Ethiopia in high-ranking positions, including as Ambassador to Bulgaria and Italy, Ambassador Tesfaye incorporates his wealth of experiences and access to pivotal documents that illuminate Ethiopian politics, particularly in relation to critical issues such as access to ports.

One of the standout concepts in his second book is the “Dodecagon of Influence,” which outlines the twelve pillars of leadership that can profoundly impact a nation and, by extension, the world. These frameworks highlight the critical nature of harmonious diplomacy and the importance of fostering solid relationships with neighboring countries, as opposed to succumbing to conflicts over technological advancements.

Ambassador Tesfaye also introduces the idea of “Hypersonic Era Psychology,” exploring how advancements in hypersonic weapon are reshaping global leadership dynamics. He argues that this era necessitates swift decision-making, as leaders now face the pressure of addressing critical issues within minutes–an environment starkly different from the protracted deliberations of the past. Countries possessing hypersonic capabilities, such as Russia and China, are now at the forefront of international relations, altering how political discussions are conducted.

In a reflective autobiography, Ambassador Tesfaye shares his remarkable journey–from humble beginnings working as a daily laborer at the age of 13 to serving as a military leader and ambassador. His narrative serves not only as personal testimony but also as inspiration, illustrating how perseverance and dedication can lead to remarkable achievements. He emphasizes the importance of documenting experiences and learning from hardships, proposing that understanding a nation’s past psychological makeup is vital for its future.

Ambassador Tesfaye cautions against critiquing a nation’s political and economic structures without grounding such criticisms in evidence. He advocates for a balanced perspective that acknowledges a country’s challenges while also recognizing its achievements. Drawing on Ethiopia’s storied history–proudly characterized as a great empire that once held dominance over the Indian Ocean and thwarted numerous aggressors–he argues that a strong national character arises from a shared psychological foundation.

As Ethiopia navigates its place in the evolving global landscape, Ambassador Tesfaye’s insights offer a vital framework for understanding the intersection of historical context, leadership, and psychological dynamics. His work serves as a call to action, urging readers to focus not only on the hurdles but also on the strengths that have defined Ethiopian resilience throughout the ages.

According to him, Ethiopia is a great nation endowed with a strong psychological makeup. It has a legacy of total dominance over the Indian Ocean and influence that extended into remote areas, showcasing its historical significance. This land remains exceptional, populated by resilient and resourceful people. Ambassador Tesfaye believes that the current generation must imitate the exemplary deeds of their forefathers instead of succumbing to negativity driven by transient emotions. He posits that it is essential for the youth to engage actively in national discourse, ensuring that their critiques align with the nation’s integrity and aspirations.