Tewodros Ashenafi: Energy Mogul Behind One Of Ethiopia's Leading Oil Companies
- Tewodros Ashenafi founded SouthWest Energy, Ethiopias first indigenous oil and gas firm, positioning it as a key player in East Africas energy sector.
- Beyond energy, Ashenafi co-owns Ambo Mineral Water and leads SouthWest Holdings, spanning oilfield services, consumer goods, and technology ventures.
- He played a pivotal role in Japan Tobaccos 1.4 billion acquisition of Ethiopias National Tobacco Enterprise, marking Ethiopias largest privatization deal.
Tewodros Ashenafi stands as one of East Africa's most influential entrepreneurs, shaping the region's business landscape. As the founder and chairman of SouthWest Energy, Ethiopia's leading indigenous oil and gas exploration company, Ashenafi has been instrumental in transforming the energy sector and fueling economic growth across the region.
Ashenafis path from Merrill Lynch to energyBorn in Addis Ababa on Aug. 26, 1969, Ashenafi pursued higher education at Columbia University, earning an Economics degree in 1991. His thirst for knowledge led him to Harvard Business School, where he enrolled in the Owner/President Management Program, equipping him with the tools to navigate the complexities of business and finance.
Ashenafi's professional journey began at Merrill Lynch Co. in New York, where he focused on international political and economic consulting. His role involved advising major global companies and pension funds on investment opportunities in developing markets, with a particular emphasis on Latin America and the CIS.
In 2003, Ashenafi recognized the untapped potential in his home country and took the bold step of founding SouthWest Holdings, Ethiopias first indigenous oil and gas exploration firm. This venture not only established SouthWest as a cornerstone of Ethiopias energy sector but also marked the beginning of Ashenafis lasting impact on the regions economy.
Expanding influence across sectorsAshenafi has built a vast business empire across a range of sectors, with both direct and indirect stakes in some of Ethiopia's key companies. In 2003, he founded SouthWest Holdings, a diversified investment group that includes SouthWest Energy, SouthWest Development, SouthWest Technologies, and SouthWest Foundation.