In January, Dr Solomon Abebe was appointed Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia’s new General Manager. Solomon has more than 20 years’ experience in public health and development including a PhD in Development Studies. We decided to take the opportunity to find out more about Solomon and his background.
Tell us about your education and career so far.
I have held several leadership roles in international development and public health. I have worked for both local and international NGOs and the United Nations. I’m also proud to have been named a World Maternal Health Young Champion by the Harvard School of Public Health.
I hold a BA in Sociology, a Masters in Management and International Relations. I also have a PhD in Development Studies.
Why did you apply for a leadership role with Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia?
Hamlin represents the gold-standard of compassionate, holistic care for marginalised women. I felt drawn to their commitment to restoring the dignity of women, upholding the legacy of Dr Catherine Hamlin.
It is important to me to be part of an organisation that provides world-class surgical treatment and restores a woman’s hope and place in society.
What lessons from your career are you bringing with you to Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia?
My experience has taught me that sustainable healthcare depends on a careful balance of resilience and empathy. The most effective organisational growth happens when you modernise operations whilst retaining compassion. I’m bringing a strong focus on strategic systems, partnerships and community-led prevention.
What was your first impression of Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital?
I felt a profound sense of serenity, love and clinical excellence. It felt less like a traditional medical facility and more like a sanctuary of healing and respect. Seeing how every staff member pours their heart into restoring these women made me realise how Dr Catherine’s spirit still lives on.
How do you plan to honour Dr Catherine Hamlin’s vision of ending fistula in Ethiopia?
We’ll continue to follow the Hamlin model of care by treating the whole person, not just the injury. Compassion will remain at the heart of our care while we continue preventative work through Project Zero and the Hamlin College of Midwives. Pairing clinical excellence and community prevention will bring us closer to ending obstetric fistula in Ethiopia for good.
What are your main priorities for your first year as General Manager?
My first is to sustain the core Hamlin legacy, ensuring that patient-centred care and clinical quality guide us. My second priority is to build modern systems that make our organisation more sustainable and fit for the future. Finally, I am prioritising the growth of our collaborative work and refining our outreach work. This will help to reach the most remote and vulnerable women across Ethiopia.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
Outside of my work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and planning activities with my children. I also have a passion for literature and enjoy both reading and writing. I have had my novels published in both Amharic and English.
Do you have a message to share with Hamlin Fistula UK supporters?
I want to give my deepest thanks to our friends in the UK. Your support saves lives and restores dignity. You help turn terrible childbirth tragedies into triumphs of human kindness. You’re a vital part of the journey for the women in our care, and together, we are keeping Catherine and Reg Hamlin’s mission alive.
