…a new individual! Afework Alemu Lombebo recently joined the Africa Evidence Network (AEN).
Joining the AEN represents a strategic milestone in his professional journey as a researcher and academic, dedicated to advancing evidence-informed decision-making. His primary motivation for joining this vibrant community is the desire to forge meaningful connections with like-minded professionals across the continent. In the complex landscape of African development, fostering a robust network is essential for sharing localised knowledge and collaborating on multi-disciplinary solutions. As an academic, he is deeply committed to further capacity building. The AEN provides a unique platform to access specialised training and peer-learning opportunities that are vital for refining his methodological skills and staying abreast of global best practices.
He views this membership as a catalyst to uplift his career, providing the visibility and professional development needed to transition from a localised researcher to a continental thought leader. Furthermore, he is motivated by the current momentum of evidence-based research in Ethiopia and Africa. Ethiopia is increasingly recognising the importance of data-driven policy, yet there remains a critical need for researchers who can bridge the gap between complex data and actionable policy. By participating in the AEN, he aims to contribute to this growing ecosystem, ensuring that African research is not only rigorous but also contextually relevant and impactful. Ultimately, his goal is to leverage the AEN’s resources to address unique regional barriers—such as socio-economic constraints and educational gaps to produce results that lead to more inclusive and sustainable development across Africa.
