Mamo Mihretu: Roles, Education, and Professional Achievements

Mamo Mihretu (Amharic: ማሞ ምህረቱ) is a distinguished Ethiopian economist, lawyer, and policymaker, currently serving as the 10th Governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE). Renowned for leading major economic reforms, Mamo is a pivotal figure behind Ethiopia’s transition toward a modernized monetary system, financial liberalization, and currency stabilization.

Championing Ethiopia’s Financial Transformation

Since assuming the governorship in January 2023, Mamo has introduced a more flexible exchange rate system, eased foreign currency restrictions, and implemented banking reforms to attract foreign investments. His policy initiatives have been central to addressing inflation, strengthening liquidity, and improving overall financial sector stability.

A Career Dedicated to Economic Progress

Before leading the National Bank, Mamo Mihretu was the founding CEO of Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), Ethiopia’s sovereign wealth fund, where he restructured key industries and promoted strategic investments. He also served as Senior Policy Advisor and Chief Trade Negotiator to the Prime Minister, playing an influential role in trade negotiations and investment facilitation.

His previous international experience includes working at the World Bank Group in Nairobi as a Senior Program Manager, where he led major reforms in trade logistics, tax systems, and business regulation in Ethiopia. Earlier, he contributed as Principal Attorney and Trade Negotiator for Ethiopia’s Ministry of Trade.

Academic Excellence and Global Recognition

A lawyer by training, Mamo holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from Addis Ababa University, a Diploma in International Trade and Investment from the University of Amsterdam, and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Harvard Kennedy School. He also earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Trade and Investment from the University of Pretoria.

Recognized internationally, the Financial Times described Mamo Mihretu as one of the young technocrats driving Ethiopia’s ambitious reform agenda. He is a member of Ethiopia’s Macroeconomic Council and serves on the Board of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE).

Personal Side

Beyond his professional commitments, Mamo Mihretu is a father of one and is admired for his vision, disciplined leadership, and unwavering commitment to Ethiopia’s economic future.