Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia leads historic visit
Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia leads African Legacies Institute delegation on historic visit to Washington, D.C.
January 26, 2025
Washington, D.C. – January 2025 – The African Legacies Institute (ALI), a pioneering organization dedicated to preserving, honoring, and promoting the legacies of democratic African Heads of State and Government, achieved a significant milestone during a high-profile visit to Washington, D.C.
Leading the delegation was H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, who was among a select group of former heads of state invited by the Multicultural Coalition Inaugural Ball Committee. Accompanying him were ALI officials Rachelle Yayi, Franya Cabral Ruiz, Sheree M. Mitchell, and George Williams II. Representing the Institute with distinction, H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn highlighted ALI’s mission to preserve Africa’s democratic legacies, emphasizing the importance of good governance, peaceful transitions of power, and sustainable development to an enthusiastic and supportive audience.
The visit reinforced ALI’s unwavering commitment to celebrating and safeguarding the contributions of Africa’s democratic leaders. As of 2025, 36 living former African Heads of State and Government have successfully overseen democratic transitions. Their enduring legacy, marked by integrity, visionary leadership, and adherence to constitutional principles, serves as an inspiration for future generations and underscores Africa’s commitment to peace, unity, and sustainable democracy.
The delegation’s participation in the inaugural festivities of the second Trump presidency provided a unique platform to engage with global audiences and policymakers. Throughout their visit, the ALI delegation participated in a series of high-level events, bilateral discussions, and public engagements, fostering dialogue on the critical themes of democracy, governance, and Africa’s leadership legacy
By showcasing the enduring contributions of Africa’s democratic leaders, the African Legacies Institute continues to elevate the continent’s aspirations on the global stage and promote a vision of shared prosperity and peace.
Key Highlights of the Visit
Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast
The delegation attended the Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast at the Waldorf Astoria, a bi- partisan event started in 1992, that joined spiritual leaders and global dignitaries from over 50 countries featuring renowned Pastor Nathaniel Bassey and other prominent speakers. In an interview with the South Shore Press, the event’s organizer, Mike Guerrero, stated: “I’m blown away…the former Prime Minister of Ethiopia is here.” H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn received special acknowledgment and was invited to join the attending pastors in prayer.
Multicultural Coalition US Presidential Inaugural Ball
The ALI delegation received a special invitation from Chairman Pastor Mark Burns, spiritual advisor to President Trump, to attend the prestigious Multicultural Coalition US Presidential Inaugural Ball. The event brought together a diverse array of prominent figures from politics, entertainment, and advocacy, to celebrate leadership and unity. Notable attendees included actor Jon Voight, political figures such as Roger Stone, Congressman Bob Barr, spiritual leaders like Dr. Alveda King and other distinguished personalities including General Michael Flynn, Brock Pierce, and Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll, New York Mayor Adams, and newly appointed Assistant Secretary of State Albert Gombis. Upon arrival, H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn was graciously welcomed by Dr. Burns and other members of the multicultural coalition.
Interview with Voice of America largest US International Broadcaster
The visit featured a historic televised interview of H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia by journalist Peter Clottey of Voice of America, the largest U.S. international broadcaster. The conversation delved into the remarkable contributions of former democratic heads of state and government in Africa, particularly in driving national development, fostering peace, and advancing democratic governance. Throughout the interview, H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn shared his insightful reflections on leadership, emphasizing the essential role that former African leaders play in shaping the continent’s future. He also underscored the importance of preserving their legacies, ensuring that their contributions continue to inspire and guide future generations. The visit was marked by a warm and gracious welcome from the Africa Division Director Salwa Jaafari and her dedicated team.
High-Level Meeting at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP)
H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn and the ALI delegation engaged with Dr. Joseph Sany, Vice President of the Africa Center at USIP, to explore potential collaborations on peacebuilding, leadership training, governance frameworks, leveraging the expertise of the former African heads of state and government.
Reception at the Hay-Adams Hotel
The ALI delegation joined a distinguished gathering of global leaders, policymakers, and industry figures at the Hay-Adams Hotel for a reception hosted by Gunster Strategies Worldwide. The event featured prominent guests such as Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK (guest of honor), African Ambassadors to the US, US Ambassadors to Europe, and high-level elected officials.
Fireside Chat with Engineering Students at Howard University
H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn led an intimate fireside chat with student leaders from Howard University’s College of Engineering and Architecture. The session reinforced ALI’s commitment to fostering collaborations between Africa and the African Diaspora while at the same time encouraging students to support economic development on the Continent.
