In a strategic move within Ethiopia’s corridors of power, Ato Sandokan Debebe has transitioned from the Ministry of Planning and Development, where he served as Minister of State, to the Prime Minister’s Special Office as Chief of Staff. This appointment by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed elevates Ato Sandokan to a pivotal role in the Ethiopian government, overseeing a department that operates as the central nervous system of the Prime Minister’s executive functions.
The Prime Minister’s Special Office, just one of six distinct entities within the Prime Minister’s Office, has seen a succession of influential leaders. Ato Sandokan steps into a lineage of notable predecessors, including the first appointee under Prime Minister Abiy, Ato Pekhrat Aregan, now serving as Ethiopia’s ambassador to Canada. The role is no stranger to high-profile assignments, as demonstrated by former head Ato Shimelis Abdisa’s current position as the head of government of the Oromia region.
Ato Sandokan’s first significant assignment as Chief of Staff was accompanying Prime Minister Abiy on a landmark trip to China, marking his foray into international diplomacy. His involvement in the Belt and Road Forum and bilateral discussions with Chinese leadership underscores the importance of his position in shaping Ethiopia’s global engagements.
Ato Sandokan’s career trajectory is as diverse as it is impressive. With a solid foundation in science — holding a bachelor’s degree in food science and production technology and a master’s in food science and nutrition — he has seamlessly transitioned into governance. His experience ranges from research at the Biodiversity Conservation Institute to academia at Addis Ababa University of Science and Technology, before stepping into the public sector.
Before ascending to his current high-profile role, Ato Sandokan made significant strides as the Director-General of the Science and Technology Information Center under then-Minister Abiy Ahmed. He also made his mark as the CEO of the Industrial Parks Development Corporation, where he turned significant profits, managing multiple industrial parks and contributing to Ethiopia’s development narrative.
In his latest position at the Ministry of Planning and Development, Ato Sandokan has been a vocal advocate for environmental, climate, and population issues, representing Ethiopia on the international stage. His appointment comes at a time when Ethiopia seeks to reclaim its influential role in international climate discourse, building on the legacy of former Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalen’s administration.
Ato Sandokan Debebe’s journey reflects a story of resilience, adaptability, and progressive leadership, echoing Ethiopia’s broader aspirations on the global stage. As Chief of Staff, his expertise and strategic vision are poised to steer the Prime Minister’s Special Office towards new horizons, furthering Ethiopia’s development and international relations.
