Abebe Aemro Selassie, Director of the African Department, IMF

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Title: Director of the African Department
Tenure as Director: September 2016 - May 2026
Specific end date: Abebe Aemro Selassie was the Director of the African Department until May 1, 2026.

Oversaw the IMF’s work with 45 countries across sub-Saharan Africa.
Worked closely with the region’s leaders and policymakers to improve economic and development outcomes.
Oversight included the IMF’s intensified engagement with the region in recent years, including some $60 billion in financial support the institution has provided to countries since 2020.

Joined the IMF in 1994.
Held various senior positions, including:
- Deputy Director in the African Department.
- Mission Chief for Portugal during the Euro Area Crisis.
- Mission Chief for South Africa.
- Senior Resident Representative in Uganda.
Worked earlier on the Fund’s lending programs with Turkey, Thailand, Romania and Estonia.
Served in the Strategy, Policy and Review Department and was deeply involved in IMF program and adjustment policy design issues.

Worked for the Government of Ethiopia as Principal Economist in the Office of the President.
Worked at the Economist Intelligence Unit in London.
Graduate studies: London School of Economics.