Ethiopian Airlines CEO Clinches ‘Ato Girma Wake Lifetime Achievement Award’ for Transformative Impact on African Aviation
Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mesfin Tasew, has been awarded the esteemed Ato Girma Wake Lifetime Achievement Award, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to route development and the broader advancement of African aviation.
The prestigious award was presented during the AviaDev Africa 2025 ceremony, which brought together over 500 high-profile delegates from across the continent and beyond in Zanzibar.
The accolade, named after the revered former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines and aviation pioneer, Mr Girma Wake, celebrates individuals who have made a profound and enduring impact on the growth of aviation in Africa.
Mr Tasew, who has been at the helm of Ethiopian Airlines during a period of remarkable growth and resilience, was lauded for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to building a connected Africa through world-class aviation services.
Under his stewardship, the airline has attained significant milestones, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s foremost carriers and setting benchmarks for operational excellence across the industry.
In his acceptance speech, Mr Mesfin expressed heartfelt gratitude for the honour. “The joy I feel for receiving the Ato Girma Wake Lifetime Achievement Award is twofold. This award is more than an honour as it is named after Africa’s father of aviation, Ethiopian Airlines’ former CEO and my mentor,” he said.
He further dedicated the award to the collective effort of the airline’s staff, stating: “This award is a testament to the collaborative effort of the entire Ethiopian Airlines team. As a Pan-African airline, we strive to realise a well-connected Africa and such recognition strengthens our commitment to do more. Taking this opportunity, I would like to reaffirm my personal and Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to the enhancement of the aviation industry on the continent.”
Since assuming the role of Group CEO, Mr Tasew has propelled Ethiopian Airlines to new heights, expanding its global footprint, enhancing fleet modernisation, and strengthening partnerships with regional and international stakeholders.
His leadership has been pivotal in transforming the airline into a model of operational efficiency and innovation, amidst global challenges and evolving travel dynamics.
The AviaDev Africa platform, where the award was presented, serves as the continent’s premier aviation route development forum, bringing together airlines, airports, tourism bodies, government representatives, and industry suppliers to foster strategic collaboration.
The 2025 edition in Zanzibar marked a milestone in reimagining Africa’s aviation future through cooperation and visionary leadership.
Mr Tasew’s recognition not only honours his personal achievements but also underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ enduring legacy in shaping African aviation and driving forward the continent’s socio-economic development through connectivity.
