Takele Uma Banti is an Ethiopian politician who has served in various important roles. He is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Ethio-Djibouti Railways, a position he has held since 2024. Takele was also the Minister of Mines and Petroleum from 2020 to 2023 and served as the Mayor of Addis Ababa from 2018 to 2020.
Early Life and Education
Takele was born in the town of Ambo, located in Shewa, Ethiopia. He holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Harvard University, as well as a Master’s in Environmental Engineering and a Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering, both from Addis Ababa University. Takele has further enhanced his academic credentials with certifications from Harvard University and the Galilee International Management Institute. Additionally, he earned a Master of Science in Economics from Addis Ababa University.
Career
Mayor of Addis Ababa
Takele’s political career began with a series of key positions in Ethiopia’s political landscape. On 17 July 2018, he was elected as the Mayor of Addis Ababa by the Addis Ababa City Council. At the time of his election, he served as deputy mayor, and his appointment was in line with a revised proclamation by the House of People’s Representatives. Takele succeeded Diriba Kuma as Mayor.
On 16 October 2019, Takele formed a new cabinet, which was approved by the administration council. Nineteen officials were appointed to various offices, with three of them being women. The session saw 79 members in favor of the nomination, three against, and seven abstaining.
Minister of Mines and Petroleum
Takele was appointed as the Minister of Mines and Petroleum of Ethiopia from 18 August 2020 to 14 January 2023. His leadership in this role was marked by significant achievements, including an increase in gold exports, solidifying the mining sector as a major contributor to Ethiopia’s foreign exchange earnings. Furthermore, Takele facilitated a partnership between the Colorado School of Mines and Addis Ababa Institute of Technology to offer a dual Master’s program in Mining and Petroleum Engineering.
Ethio-Djibouti Railway
On 16 July 2024, Takele was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Ethio-Djibouti Railways by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. This role marks the latest chapter in his distinguished career in Ethiopian politics and development.
