CEO, African Center for Early Childhood Development (AfC-ECD)
Dr Kebede Worku is a highly experienced public health leader with over two decades of service in Ethiopia’s health sector. Trained as a medical doctor with a Master’s in Public Health, he has played a pivotal role in shaping national health policies, strengthening public health institutions, and leading emergency preparedness and response efforts. His leadership has contributed to expanding primary healthcare access, implementing innovative health financing mechanisms, and enhancing partnerships with international development partners.
Throughout his career, Dr Kebede has held several high-level positions, including Chief Executive Officer of the African Center for Early Childhood Development and Senior Advisor to Ethiopia’s Minister of Health. He previously served as the State Minister of Health for over 13 years, where he led strategic initiatives in disease prevention, maternal and child health, and health systems strengthening. His contributions include scaling up HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria interventions, establishing the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), and improving pharmaceutical supply chain management.
Beyond government roles, Dr Kebede has been an influential figure in global health governance, serving as a board member for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, as well as chairing several national and international health coordination bodies. His expertise in policy formulation, donor coordination, and program implementation has significantly advanced Ethiopia’s health sector, ensuring sustainable and equitable healthcare access across the country.
