Dr.Yewondwossen Tadesse Mengistu, is an accomplished medical professional specializing in Internal Medicine, particularly Nephrology. He earned his MD from the Faculty of Medicine at Addis Ababa University (AAU) in 1984. He obtained a Speciality Certificate in Internal Medicine from AAU in 1990 and a Certificate in Nephrology from the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) in 2000, after completing training at the School of Medicine, University of Kwazulu Natal, South Africa, from 1999 to 2000. Since September 1996, Yewondwossen has been serving as an Associate Professor and Consultant Internist & Nephrologist, as well as the Head of the Renal Unit, at the Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, AAU. Prior to that, he worked as a General Practitioner at the Armed Forces General Hospital (AFGH) from 1984 to 1986, and as an Internist at AFGH from January 1990 to August 1996.
He revolutionized Ethiopian nephrology. Taking over a dormant dialysis service at Tikur Anbessa Hospital (the sole provider in the nation), he revived it and reintroduced both peritoneal and hemodialysis.
His vision extended beyond dialysis. He pioneered sending patients with end-stage kidney disease for transplants in India and later advocated for access to life-saving anti-rejection medications.
He nurtured the future of nephrology, inspiring young doctors and connecting them with training opportunities. His expertise wasn’t confined to hospitals; he shared knowledge through national and regional conferences and publications.
A global figure, he actively participated in international societies, promoting ethical practices through his role on the Declaration of Istanbul Custodian Group. He became the face of Ethiopian nephrology to the world.
Congratulations Dr. Yewondwossen Tadesse.