Makda M. Tessema

In my current position at the African Union Commission, I serve as a key player in program development, management, and strategic partnerships. In my role within the African Governance Architecture Platform (AGP) and African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), I focus on conceptualizing and finalizing project documents, including concept notes, proposals, work plans, procurement plans, and budgets, ensuring alignment with key performance indicators for decision-making.

Within the African Governance Architecture, I am tasked with coordinating the efforts of AU organs and all Regional Economic Communities (RECs). I engage stakeholders within member states and RECs in designing and implementing strategies to promote democratic governance, peace, and security.

With a focus on technical excellence, I review incoming documents and lead the development of policy papers, issue papers, research, analysis, and strategy documents, providing critical technical support in writing, editing, and publishing.

Additionally, I play a key role in crafting speeches, talking points, aid memoirs, statements, and presentations for high-profile stakeholders, including the Commissioner for Political Affairs Peace and Security, Chairperson, DCP, Chair of the AGA Platform, Director, GCPD, and the Ag. Head of AGA-APSA Sec. I am actively involved in drafting progress and annual reports, decisions, and work plans, and utilizing the AMERT system for effective tracking and evaluation.

Beyond my programmatic responsibilities, I contribute significantly to the organization's policy input by serving as the focal person for organizing statutory engagements for policy-making bodies within the union, providing support for high-level engagement, workshops, conferences, and meetings, and offering strategic advice for issue resolution.

My responsibilities extend to financial oversight, where I prepare program-based approval memos, and budget proposals, monitor financial flows, and collaborate with the finance department to manage disbursements.

My role also involves staying informed about current events, security issues, geopolitics, legislation, and new policy developments, allowing me to contribute to complex policy issues and develop impactful solutions through risk analysis and management.

Furthermore, I collaborate with communication focal persons to develop consistent messaging and outreach plans and cultivate strategic partnerships with diverse stakeholders, including international organizations, development agencies, think tanks, academia, government, and civil society organizations.

Moreover, I provide information, evidence, and tools to catalyze actions of member states and partners in Youth Development in Africa. My role encompasses mentoring staff, managing a multi-cultural and cross-functional core team, participating in recruitment processes, and representing the AU and AGA on official platforms as a speaker and moderator.

Accomplishments

• Orchestrated synergy and coordination within the African Governance Architecture Platform (AGP), uniting 11 African Union Organs and Institutions alongside 8 Regional Economic Communities (RECs) to jointly plan and execute activities focusing on Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance.
• Led an initiative focused on harmonizing AU state reporting mechanisms regarding instruments on Human Rights, Democracy, and Governance. This initiative is set to be implemented by various organs of the African Union Commission and Member States.
• Played a pivotal role in resolving a longstanding impasse and facilitating the drafting of a concluding observation on Member States’ report regarding the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance.
• Provided essential support for the implementation of a Joint project between the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and AGA on Youth in Political Participation and Socio-Economic Development.
• Successfully organized and launched the inaugural African Union Youth Innovation Challenge in Democracy and Governance, showcasing numerous youth initiatives in both digital and non-digital spheres.
• Took the lead in organizing the first Innovation Accelerator for the top 20 participants of the Youth Innovation Challenge in collaboration with Africa Labs, and initiated efforts to showcase the initiative at the Dubai Expo.
• Spearheaded the development of a Training of Trainers (TOT) Manual on Youth Participation in Electoral Processes in Africa and conducted the pioneering African Union TOT for youth in the Republic of The Gambia, utilizing the same manual.
• Played a pivotal role in knowledge management by drafting policy briefs, and opinion pieces, and staying updated on public policy developments in AU Member States. Additionally, I mobilized funding from donors to use to execute strategies and activities.
• Served as the focal point for the African Union Permanent Representative Council (PRC) Sub-Committee on Human Rights, Democracy, and Governance, providing crucial support to the Sub-Committee and Secretariat.
• Successfully led and organized the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th High-Level Dialogues on various subjects including Democracy, Governance, and Human Rights. These thematic discussions were aimed at creating durable solutions for humanitarian situations in Africa, fostering resilience and sustainable development.
• Facilitated a closed roundtable discussion on the transition of the African Governance Architecture (APSA) and African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), coordinating the development of a Guidance Note for Policy and Decision-makers.
• Conducted extensive citizen consultations, particularly with youth and gender-focused groups, on various thematic issues including governance, peace, leadership, elections, human rights, refugees, IDPs, and returnees, ensuring inclusivity and diversity in policy discussions and decision-making processes.
• Facilitated multidisciplinary and multi-sectoral Technical Assessment Missions and Technical Assistance Missions in collaboration with an AU Member State and the AU, particularly focusing on building the capacities of youth in political participation, contributing to enhanced democratic governance.
• I was involved in designing strategies and policies consistent with the department’s goal in order to address the pertinent issues. For example, I engaged in the drafting, feedback, validation, and launch of the African Governance Report led by APRM, contributing to evidence-based policymaking and governance reforms across the continent.
• Served as a core team member in the AU Election Observation Mission for the Republic of Zimbabwe Harmonized Elections 2023. Specifically, I managed the interactions between the Head of Mission, former President of Nigeria H.E. Goodluck Jonathan, and various stakeholders including political parties, civil society organizations, partners, and other stakeholders.

Under this role, I served as a key player in program development, management, and strategic partnership initiatives. This encompassed drafting comprehensive project documents, work plans, and budgets, as well as meticulously monitoring and evaluating program progress to ensure alignment with strategic objectives.

Additionally, I took charge of drafting concept notes, coining agendas and themes for meetings, providing valuable input for policy recommendations, and contributing to the African Union's policy-making organs.

One of my core responsibilities was to provide support for local and regional program dialogues, workshops, and meetings aimed at facilitating input for policymaking processes. By staying abreast of new policy developments and analyzing policy papers, strategy documents, national plans, and development frameworks, I was able to prepare briefs and input for policy dialogue, technical assistance coordination, and development frameworks.

I served as the focal point for the Department of Political Affairs of the AUC for the National Democratic Institute (NDI) South and Eastern Africa Programme on Citizen Engagement. This role involved fostering collaboration and coordination between the AU and NDI, contributing to the advancement of citizen engagement initiatives across the region.

Furthermore, I actively participated in meetings representing the African Union and provided presentations on the AU's work at various forums while also serving as a panelist and moderator on several occasions, further amplifying the AU's presence and impact on the global stage.

Accomplishments

• Played a key role in designing, planning, budgeting, and mobilizing resources for the successful implementation of citizen engagement activities and programs related to the African Union – African Governance Architecture.
• Mobilized and engaged youth in AU youth development activities including building the capacity and providing opportunities for youth engagement and development in Africa. More specifically, I contributed to the implementation of the Citizen Engagement Strategy of the AGA, comprising the Youth Engagement Strategy and Women Engagement Strategy. I was involved in the design and planning of policy programs to achieve the strategies.
• Established partnerships and institutional linkages to facilitate the promotion, adoption, and implementation of the relevant youth development frameworks. For instance, I spearheaded the organization of a groundbreaking Youth in Peacebuilding Workshop, laying the foundation for the Youth in Peace Project currently administered by the Peace and Security Department of the AUC.
• Organized a regional conversation for over 250 young people, addressing the enhancement of their meaningful participation in electoral processes to discuss and find solutions to the issue of minimal youth engagement in the entire electoral cycle compared to voting day, emphasizing capacity-building sessions on the understanding of participation as a basic human right and the role of youth in the electoral cycle.
• Provided vital support in organizing a high-level policy dialogue on Democratic Governance, addressing trending policy issues on the continent. I engaged AU Member states, AU organs, AUC Departments, and partners to agree on priorities and accelerate mainstreaming youth development in Africa.
• Facilitated a continental conference on Youth in Peace and Security, actively contributing to the drafting of the Youth in Peace and Security framework for the African Union. I implemented a continent-wide communication, advocacy, and dissemination program to ensure publicity and the widest dissemination of adopted continental frameworks, decisions, and plans of action related to the African Agenda for Youth Development.
• Contributed significantly to the formation and launch of the African Union Political Parties Programme, including the development of a continental draft guideline for political party engagement within the continent.
• Played a pivotal role in the process of developing the African Governance Architecture Roadmap, contributing to the strategic vision for governance in Africa. I organized meetings, and conferences in all aspects with member states, RECs, and partners, including the monitoring of periodic reports (national and regional) on the implementation of the recommendations, decisions, plan of action, and other policy frameworks.

As the Programme Manager, I played a pivotal role in driving the implementation of the Horn of Africa Leadership and Learning for Action (HOLLA) Programme by leading the identification of local partners, particularly non-state actors, who would take charge of local and national initiatives. Building upon this foundation, I established strong working relationships with local organizations serving as sub-grantees of the HOLLA Programme. These partnerships were essential in ensuring effective collaboration and maximizing the impact of our initiatives on the ground.

Additionally, I ensured the implementation of Terms of Reference (TOR), overseeing the monitoring, evaluation, and learning matrix to facilitate reporting on sub-granted local programs. Under this role, I conducted regular field visits to monitor the quality of implementation by our partners and ensure adherence to project objectives. Furthermore, I spearheaded efforts to connect grassroots implementation with regional programs that were running simultaneously, thereby fostering synergy and coherence across different levels of intervention.

One of my significant responsibilities was to ensure the timely submission of project and financial reports, along with other necessary documents, to the British Council. I coordinated the review and quality control processes, aligning with EU reporting standards and requirements. This meticulous approach to reporting and documentation contributed to the successful delivery of the program, garnering additional funding from the EU based on our project implementation and success. This extra funding sustained the project for several years beyond my tenure, highlighting the lasting impact of our efforts under my leadership.

Accomplishments

• Successfully led the coordinated implementation of the EU-funded Horn of Africa Leadership and Learning for Action (HOLLA) Programme. This citizen engagement initiative aimed at promoting democracy, peace, social cohesion, and active citizenship in the Horn of Africa, emphasizing the pivotal role of young people in program development and delivery.
• Took the lead in setting up and coordinating a Steering Committee composed of young individuals. This committee played a crucial role in providing strategic direction to the HOLLA Programme, ensuring the active involvement of youth in decision-making processes. I managed and supervised direct reports to ensure their effective performance as per the organization’s performance management policy and system.
• Established and maintained a strategic linkage between the steering committee, local implementing organizations, partners, project staff, and other stakeholders. I led quarterly review meetings to enhance communication and collaboration, contributing to the success of the HOLLA Programme.
• Built the capacity of Civil Society Organizations at the national level through comprehensive training programs and grants. This initiative aimed at strengthening the capabilities of these organizations, fostering their active participation in promoting democracy and peace in the Horn of Africa.
• Effectively coordinated a project campaign with partners and grantees, providing detailed work plans, budgets, and Monitoring and Evaluation frameworks. I contributed to the development of the departmental business continuity plan and ensured implementation. This meticulous approach contributed to the successful execution of the HOLLA Programme.
• Led efforts to promote a regional coalition by supporting young people, networks, and communities in the Horn of Africa. This initiative aimed to enhance their contributions to the region's future, specifically in the areas of democracy, peace, security, and development.
• Guided, coordinated, and provided technical and intellectual guidance for program staff and youth leaders. I made timely decisions to escalate complex issues to British Council leadership. Moreover, I managed risk within the division and recommended mitigation strategies.
• Ensured the successful delivery of project outputs to client satisfaction and British Council Standards. Due to exceptional project management, the HOLLA Programme was extended for an additional two years, highlighting the quality and impact of the initiative.
• Gathered valuable information, intelligence, and data through market research and partnerships with stakeholders. This data was instrumental in supporting the development of the British Council's portfolio and securing funding for future initiatives. In so doing, I was able to manage risk within the division and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Organized and executed a high-profile Chatham House discussion in London on the HOLLA Programme. The event featured participation from Ministers of youth from Sudan, South Sudan, academia, think tanks, policy-oriented institutions, and individuals, enhancing program outreach and building a robust regional network.

As the Programs Director for YWCA, I played a pivotal role in advancing the organization's mission and impact. A significant achievement under my leadership was the successful establishment of one regional office. This expansion was made possible through my efforts in securing funding from partner organizations, showcasing my strategic ability to source crucial resources for organizational growth.

A key aspect of my role involved managing relationships with partner organizations and government offices that supported and facilitated our work. This included effective communication through drafting briefs, reports, and status updates to keep partners informed about the implementation of our programs. My proficiency in resource management extended to overseeing both human and financial resources, ensuring the efficient operation of the organization.

As part of my responsibilities, I organized the Annual General Assembly for the board of directors and other members of the YWCA. During these assemblies, I presented items for decision-making and guided the organization's agenda forward.

Accomplishments

• Spearheaded technical leadership and coordinated comprehensive program planning for the YWCA, focusing on human rights, women's rights, and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) initiatives. I implemented impactful programs aimed at alleviating poverty and unemployment through innovative saving schemes.
• Conducted strategic planning exercises with extensive engagement from citizens, women, and youth groups, as well as vulnerable and disabled communities. This inclusive approach ensured that programs were tailored to meet the specific needs of diverse populations.
• Led the monitoring, evaluation, and learning efforts for all programs, ensuring accountability, effectiveness, and continuous improvement. I implemented robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess program impact and inform future decision-making.
• Oversaw all capacity development initiatives, I facilitated the professional growth and development of staff members, enhancing their skills and expertise in program implementation and management.
• Successfully mobilized resources by writing grants, preparing technical proposals, and developing concept notes. This proactive approach to resource mobilization ensured the sustainability and expansion of YWCA's impactful programs.
• Developed and maintained strategic relationships with partners, donors, and relevant government ministries, including the Ministry of Women, Children, and Youth Affairs, and the CSO Agency of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. These partnerships were essential for securing support, collaboration, and funding for YWCA's initiatives.
• Managed and provided mentorship to a team of 13 program staff, fostering their professional growth and ensuring the successful implementation of YWCA's programs. Through effective leadership and guidance, I cultivated a motivated and high-performing team dedicated to achieving organizational goals.

Under this role, I served as a central point of contact responsible for ensuring its smooth execution and alignment with organizational goals. My role involved active engagement with partners and members to facilitate the implementation of programs, with a focus on preventing duplication of efforts and promoting accountability.

In addition to project coordination, I played a crucial role in knowledge management, providing timely reports and other knowledge products such as briefs, newsletters, and flyers. These communication materials served to disseminate project updates, share best practices, and engage stakeholders effectively.

Furthermore, I served as a liaison between the project and regional offices, traveling to various cities to manage working relationships and coordinate efforts related to Women Empowerment and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) initiatives.

Accomplishments

• Contributed to the planning, coordination, and implementation of project activities, ensuring seamless execution and alignment with organizational objectives.
• Fostered effective partnerships by creating liaisons with various non-governmental and government organizations, facilitating collaboration and synergy in project efforts.
• Led the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of projects, ensuring adherence to timelines, quality standards, and desired outcomes. This comprehensive approach contributed to the success and impact of the initiatives.
• Provided effective leadership and supervision to a team of three program staff members, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.

While working with the Ministry of Justice, my role was multifaceted and involved representing the department in various capacities. A significant aspect of my responsibilities was backstopping the work of the Ministry's Gender Department concerning women’s rights issues. This involved attending and actively participating in meetings on behalf of the department, providing insights, updates, and recommendations related to gender-related initiatives, policies, and programs.

Accomplishments

• Spearheaded the creation of comprehensive training materials, manuals, and brochures focusing on Women's Human Rights and Gender-Based Violence. This initiative aimed at providing essential resources for education and awareness.
• Ensured adherence to government guidelines by meticulously preparing draft activity and periodic reports. This commitment to regulatory standards reflected a dedication to transparency and accountability.
• Demonstrated strategic planning and reporting capabilities by crafting annual plans and reports, as well as quarterly plans and reports. This systematic approach contributed to the effective implementation and evaluation of initiatives.
• Cultivated a positive and collaborative working relationship with the Judiciary and security apparatus. This proactive engagement facilitated a strong partnership, particularly on issues related to Gender-Based Violence, promoting coordinated efforts in addressing these critical issues.
• Organized a targeted training workshop for judges, members of the police department, and public prosecutors, focusing on Women's Human Rights and Gender-Based Violence. This initiative aimed to enhance awareness and expertise among key stakeholders in the justice system.

As an assistant judge, my role primarily involved supporting the judicial process while fulfilling my LLB requirements. I was deployed as a clerk, where I actively participated in various aspects of legal proceedings.

My responsibilities included reviewing and producing judgments, where I analyzed case details and legal precedents to formulate well-reasoned decisions. Additionally, I engaged in questioning witnesses during trials, ensuring a thorough examination of evidence and testimony.

A significant aspect of my role was writing legal opinions and briefs, where I conveyed legal arguments and analysis in a clear and concise manner. Furthermore, I played a crucial role in the courtroom by delivering and explaining judgments to both parties, ensuring transparency and understanding in the judicial process.

In addition to my duties within the courtroom, I was responsible for handling cases of contempt of court. This involved liaising with police officers assigned to the court to address instances of disrespect or disobedience to judicial authority, thereby upholding the integrity of the legal system.