Documented by Ezra Ejigu and AddisAlem Mulat
The unstoppable force: Nigus Wedajenew’s rise as a literary luminary and media maestro
Nigus Wedajenew, born in 1976, hails from Fetera town in the Merhabete District. Coming from a family with a business background, he actively engaged in various work-related duties alongside his family members during his formative years. Skillfully balancing his responsibilities, he devoted himself to supporting his family while also pursuing his education.
During his leisure time and winter breaks, he also devoted himself to religious education, which is thought to have contributed to the development of his fundamental reading and writing skills. Even as a middle school student, his passion for radio programs, dramas, and discussions ignited his curiosity and set him on the path to his current career.
After finishing high school at Alem Ketema Arbegnoch Secondary High School, which was located 16 km from his hometown, he continued his studies in grade school, actively participating in charity work focused on environmental science and media projects.
Beginning in September 1996, Nigus enrolled at Addis Ababa University’s Social Science Campus (6 kilo) and successfully obtained a bachelor’s degree in language and literature. Throughout his university years, he dedicated himself to writing courses and personal projects, resulting in significant advancements in his academic achievements. Subsequently, he pursued a master’s degree in Folklore Studies at Addis Ababa University, further enriching his knowledge and expertise in the field.
Starting in September 2012 at Addis Zemen Newspaper, he began his journey as the editor-in-chief of the publication. His career was greatly influenced by his early experiences and his passion for reading, writing, and education at a religious school.
His expertise in editing resulted in his selection as a committee member for the preparation of Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples of Ethiopia magazine in 2007. He also served as an editor for three WAFA magazines. During his tenure as Editor-in-Chief at Addis Zemen newspaper, he focused on improving the preparation department. He restructured the team, introduced designated planning and analysis days, and enhanced the OPED page with impactful reviews and constructive feedback.
By the same token, Nigus empowered journalists and deputy editors, ensuring fair distribution of work and providing support to the staff. Despite his administrative responsibilities, he managed to contribute more than 312 articles to the Reporter newspaper within four years, while also sharing updates on his Facebook page. Later, at Addis Ababa Mass Media Agency, he efficiently oversaw content operations for ETV2, FM Radio 96.3, and Addis Lissan newspaper, exemplifying his commitment to journalistic excellence.
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the ” Tewedaj media.” for documenting my story, appreciating my medium range efforts in journalism over the past two decades.