One of the fastest-urbanizing regions of the world, Africa has immense human potential and a wealth of natural resources. However, the continent is economically fragmented, and for many African nations, inclusive growth remains elusive. Join us for a conversation with economist Dr. Abebe Selassie about Africa's economic challenges and opportunities. This event will be moderated by Prof. Atif Mian.

Abebe Aemro Selassie is the Director of the African Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), a position he has held since 2016. Mr. Selassie oversees the IMF’s operations and engagement with 45 countries across sub-Saharan Africa, spanning the three main pillars of IMF work—policy advice, lending operations, and technical assistance. His responsibilities also include building strategic partnerships and dialogue with senior policymakers and institutions across the region. Before taking up his current position, Mr. Selassie gained extensive experience in a wide-ranging 22-year career at the IMF. He held various senior positions, including Deputy Director in the African Department, Mission Chief for Portugal and South Africa, Division Chief of the African Department’s Regional Studies Division, and the IMF’s Senior Resident Representative in Uganda. Earlier in his career, he worked on the Fund’s lending programs with Turkey, Thailand, Romania, and Estonia as well as being deeply involved in policy, operational review, and economic research work. Before joining the IMF in 1994, he worked for the Government of Ethiopia and the Economist Intelligence Unit in London. Mr. Selassie is an Ethiopian national. He completed his graduate studies at the London School of Economics.

This event is cosponsored with the Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance, the Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination, Research Program in Political Economy and Africa World Initiative.