Advisory Board

  • Dr. Jemal Abfita

    President University of Jimma, Chief Advisor Education.

    Is an Ethiopian academic. He currently serves as the President of Jimma University and holds the position of associate professor in the Department of Economics at the same institution. He completed his doctoral studies at Kangwon National University in South Korea, where he earned his PhD in economics with a focus on Agriculture and Resource Economics in 2014. He has also served as a board member of Hijra Bank for three years since its establishment in February 2020. (Located in Ethiopia)

  • Ermyas Amelga

    Chief Advisor Finance
    is the Chief Advisor for Finance at Ecopia and a leading figure in Ethiopia’s digital transformation of the banking sector. With extensive finance experience gained in America and practical banking expertise in Ethiopia, he stands at the forefront of Ecopia’s commodities services. As Commodities Liaison Officer, Ermyas plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between international commodity markets and local sourcing opportunities, driving sustainable economic growth. His strategic insight ensures that Ecopia’s financial solutions are aligned with global best practices, enhancing both regional and international trade dynamics. (Located in Ethiopia)

  • Dr. Shumete Gizaw

    Former Chief of Staff Ethiopian Prime Minister, Chief Advisor Security.

    is the Chief Advisor for Security at Ecopia Group. An esteemed Ethiopian politician and academic, he holds a PhD in Geography and has served in key government roles, including Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, State Minister of Science and Technology, and Director General of INSA. As an Associate Professor and motivational speaker, Dr. Shumete is recognized for his contributions to education and leadership at the Organization of Educational Cooperation. His strategic insights are instrumental in Ecopia’s investment in cybersecurity, strengthening the company's focus on securing Africa’s digital future. (Located in Ethiopia)

  • Prof. Afework Kassu

    Former Secretary of State Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Chief Advisor Political Affairs Ethiopia.

    is a renowned expert in public-private partnerships (PPP) and infrastructure development, with a wealth of experience in project finance. A former Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chief Advisor on Political Affairs in Ethiopia, he was the first head of the steering committee behind the Seratera initiative and played a pivotal role in introducing PPPs in Ethiopia. As the current Head of the Ethiopian Director General of the Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), Prof. Afework leads efforts to transform Ethiopia’s traditional medicine into a sustainable resource based on the country's rich biodiversity.(Located in Ethiopia)

  • Christoph Matschie

    Former MbD and Minister AD. Chief Advisor Political Affairs Central Europe.

    Christoph Matschie is our special advisor for our sourcing business due to his extensive and distinguished career in both regional and national politics. His CV highlights include serving as a member of the German Bundestag from 1990 to 2004 and again from 2017 to 2021, with a notable role as Parliamentary State Secretary for Education and Research from 2002 to 2004. As State Chairman of SPD Thüringen from 1999 to 2014, and as Minister of Education and Deputy Minister-President in Thuringia from 2009 to 2014, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to sustainable development. His deep understanding of educational, economic, and regulatory frameworks, combined with his strong network, make him an invaluable asset to our sourcing business, ensuring responsible and high quality operations. Additionally his current work with Friedrich 30 is further enriching our joint efforts.(Located in Germany)

  • Joanna Mierzejewska-Rosiak

    Strategic Advisor CEE- Business Development and Strategic Partnerships

    is the Strategic Advisor for CEE - Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at Ecopia. With a deep understanding of the balance between culture and capital in the 21st century, she plays a pivotal role in fostering sustainable business practices that respect both global perspectives and regional dynamics. Joanna brings a unique role in bridging Europe to Africa, leveraging her extensive network to connect key stakeholders across both continents. Her strategic guidance and insights are invaluable in advancing Ecopia’s mission, helping the company expand its footprint and build meaningful partnerships for long-term growth. (Located in Poland and Germany)

  • Dr. Bogdan Wasilewski

    Chief Advisor Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare.

    Dr. Bogdan Wasilewski serves as the Chief Advisor for Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare at Ecopia. With extensive international experience in managing and implementing large-scale investment projects, Dr. Wasilewski is a highly regarded expert in quality assurance and mergers & acquisitions. His deep knowledge and expertise help ensure that Ecopia’s pharmaceutical and healthcare initiatives meet global standards while driving innovation and growth. Dr. Wasilewski plays a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency, ensuring compliance with international regulations, and contributing to Ecopia’s ongoing success in transforming the healthcare landscape across Africa. (Located in Poland)