Dr. Alemayehu Wassie

Dr. Alemayehu Wassie Eshete is an Ethiopian forest ecologist, conservation scientist, academic, author, and environmental leader with more than three decades of experience in forestry, biodiversity conservation, and ecological restoration. He is internationally recognized for his pioneering research on Ethiopia’s sacred church forests and their role in preserving biodiversity in degraded landscapes.

Dr. Wassie earned his BSc in Forestry from Alemaya (Haramaya) University, an MSc in Forest Ecology from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, and a PhD in Forest Ecology and Forest Management from Wageningen University in the Netherlands (2007). His doctoral research became foundational in understanding the ecological, cultural, and conservation significance of Ethiopian Orthodox Church forests.

Throughout his career, he has served in leadership, academic, and policy roles, including as Executive Director and Board Secretary of the Organization for Rehabilitation and Development in Amhara (ORDA). He has also mentored graduate students, collaborated with international researchers, and contributed to environmental policy and restoration initiatives across Ethiopia.

Dr. Wassie’s work highlights how the thousands of forest patches surrounding Ethiopian Orthodox churches serve as biodiversity refuges and ecological anchors in largely deforested regions. His research integrates scientific ecology with cultural heritage, demonstrating how faith institutions have played a critical role in environmental stewardship.

In addition to his scientific contributions, Dr. Wassie is also a literary writer in Amharic, reflecting a rare combination of ecological scholarship and creative expression.

In addition to scientific writing, Dr. Wassie authored this mystical novel in Amharic, showcasing his creative and narrative talents. The book reflects philosophical and imaginative storytelling, demonstrating his intellectual depth beyond environmental science.

Dr. Wassie is known for literary writing in Amharic:

• Published Novels: Emegua, ፍካሬ: Fikarie, ሰበዝ: Sebez, ዝጎራ: Zigora, ሚተራሊዮን: Miteralion & ችቦ: Chibo, መርበብት: Merbebt (a mystical novel showcasing his creative and narrative talent).