I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ambassador Konjit Sinegiorgis.

For decades, she served her country and the OAU/African Union with exceptional distinction, carrying her responsibilities and noble mission with a steadiness, vision, and clarity that earned the respect of those who worked with her across the continent and beyond.

Amb. Konjit opened space and expanded what was possible for women in diplomacy. Many of us walk paths today that were made more accessible because she walked them first, leaving the way paved and the door open for those who followed.

While we mourn her passing, we also take pride in the legacy she leaves behind, in the institutions she contributed to building and strengthening, in her steadfast support for the work of the OAU/African Union, and in the many lives she impacted along the way.

In these sad circumstances, I join the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, in extending my deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, and colleagues, as well as to the Government and people of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

May her soul rest in peace. She will be tremendously missed.

H.E Amb. Selma Malika Haddadi
Deputy Chairperson
African Union Commission