Segenet Kelemu

Segenet Kelemu, an esteemed Ethiopian botanist, has made significant strides in the field of molecular plant pathology. With nearly three decades of dedicated research, she has played a pivotal role in addressing agricultural challenges across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and North America. Her work has not only advanced scientific understanding but has also contributed to improving food security in various regions.

From November 2013 to December 2023, Segenet served as the Director General of the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, the only institute in Africa focused on the study of insects and other arthropods. Her previous roles include Director of Biosciences eastern and central Africa (BecA), Vice President of Programs at the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), and Leader of Crop and Agroecosystem Health Management at the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT).

Throughout her illustrious career, Segenet has garnered numerous international accolades. In 2014, she received the prestigious L'Oréal-UNESCO Awards for Women in Science. She is a Fellow of TWAS − The World Academy of Sciences and was honored with an honorary doctorate from Tel Aviv University in May 2016. Additionally, she was recognized as one of Forbes Africa's top one hundred most influential African women in May 2014 and was named one of the ten most influential African women in agriculture by the Journal of Gender, Agriculture and Food Security.

Her contributions to science have not gone unnoticed, as she has also received CIAT's Outstanding Senior Scientist Award, the Friendship Award from the People's Republic of China, and the TWAS Prize for Agricultural Sciences. Segenet Kelemu's remarkable journey exemplifies the impact of dedicated research and leadership in the scientific community.