The Ethiopian Diaspora Trust Fund has appointed four new board members as part of efforts to expand its reach and deepen engagement with the Ethiopian community in the United States.

Captain Solomon Gizaw, Teemt Berhanu, Messay Gessesse and Belaynesh Hailemariam will join the board, bringing experience in business, aviation, philanthropy and community leadership, the organisation said. EDTF board chair Lulite Ejigu said the new members are already contributing to preparations for the 2026 Great Rift Valley Innovation Summit, an event that will highlight the fund’s projects and partnerships.

Established in 2018, the trust finances projects in education, healthcare, technology and agriculture for Ethiopian communities. It has gained greater visibility following the 2025 Great Rift Valley Innovation Summit in Addis Ababa.

Ethiopia’s diaspora continues to play a pivotal economic role. Remittances reached more than $5.1 billion in the first nine months of the 2024/25 fiscal year, surpassing the total for the previous year. The increase reflects government measures to channel flows through formal banking and a more favourable investment environment. In addition to remittances, diaspora investors are active in fintech, tourism and hospitality, while professionals are contributing expertise to national initiatives, including the planned Ethiopian Securities Exchange.