Meet Our Staff

Prof. Delayehu Bekele (MD, MPH, FECSACOG)

PI and Director
delayehu.bekele@spirhr.org

Professor Delayehu Bekele is a visionary maternal health leader, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, and Director of the St. Paul Institute of Reproductive Health and Rights (SPIRHR). Renowned for transforming maternal and reproductive health in Ethiopia, he has trained and mentored generations of obstetricians, residents, and maternal-fetal medicine fellows. With over 100 peer-reviewed publications and active leadership in professional associations and research ethics, he has advanced evidence-based practice, strengthened research capacity, and shaped national policy, leaving an enduring impact on clinical care, education, and reproductive health systems across the country.

Ms. Metti Midekssa

Program Manager
metti.midekssa@spirhr.org

She serves as the Program Manager at SPIRHR, bringing extensive experience in coordinating and managing programs. She oversees the planning, execution, and monitoring of major initiatives. At St. Paul Institute of Reproductive Health and Rights, Mrs. Metti enhances organizational efficiency, cultivates partnerships, and turns strategic plans into tangible community outcomes. Her leadership, organizational skills, and commitment to high-impact programs are crucial for advancing reproductive health services and fostering sustainable, meaningful change across Africa.

Mekitie Wondafrash (MD, Ph.D.)

Research and Publication Advisor
mekitie.wondafrash@spirhr.org

He is a medical doctor, public health specialist, and educator with 20+ years in teaching, research, and program evaluation. At SPIRHR, he leads research capacity building and mentors scholars, bridging evidence and practice. With over 60 publications, Dr. Mekitie focuses on guiding future public health professionals and translating maternal health and nutrition research into policy impact.

Biruk Abebe (MD, MSc)

HIT Advisor
biruk.abebe@spirhr.org

He is the HIT Advisor at SPIRHR, known for advancing digital innovation in maternal and reproductive health in Ethiopia. He led the rollout of SPHMMC’s EMR system. transforming data management and patient care. He developed the Ethiopian Pregnancy Calendar Mobile App and clinical management apps for OB/Gyn and internal Medicine. His work promotes evidence-based practice and strengthens health systems nationwide.

Ms. Netsanet Negash (MBA)

Finance and Administration Manager
netsanet.negash@spirhr.org

She is a finance and administration professional with over 12 years’ experience. serving as the Finance and Administration Manager at SPIRHR. She provides strategic oversight for financial and operational management, ensuring efficiency, accountability, and sustainability. She also streamlines operations, manages resources, and fosters transparency. Her leadership helps SPIRHR operate smoothly, achieve its mission, and deliver impact.

Daniel Assefa

Logistics and Procurement officer
daniel.assefa@spirhr.org

He is the Logistics and Procurement Officer at SPIRHR, overseeing procurement, logistics, and vendor engagement with expertise and precision. Known for reliability and attention to detail, Daniel strengthens operational systems, helping SPIRHR deliver high-quality reproductive health programs and achieve impactful results.

Dr. Amani Nureddin (MD, MPH)

Training and Education, Clinical Service Pillar, Lead/Coordinator
amani.abdu@spirhr.org

Dr. Amani Nureddin is a medical doctor and public health advocate, serving as the Coordinator for the Clinical Service and Quality Pillar at the SPIRHR. She leads clinical service initiatives, including support for Michu clinics, the Michu call center, and quality improvement activities. She has been leading the development and implementation of many Ql projects in collaboration with the OBGYN Department at SPHMMC.

Mickyias Gebrekirstos Brhane (MD, MPH)

Advocacy and Communication
mickyias.gebre@spirhr.org

He is the Lead of the Advocacy and Communication Pillar at SPIRHR, driving advocacy and communication efforts to promote reproductive health policies across Ethiopia. Dr. Mickyias leads campaigns, builds partnerships, and ensures evidence-based messages reach stakeholders, policymakers, and communities. His leadership enhances SPIRHR’s visibility and impact, raising awareness, influencing policy, and fostering sustainable improvements in reproductive health. His work amplifies the institute’s mission and empowers communities to access quality services.

Dr. Mitiku Getu (MD, MPH)

CPD Director
mitiku.getu@spirhr.org

He is the Training and Education Pillar Lead and CPD Director at SPIRHR, designing programs to improve healthcare professionals’ skills in reproductive and maternal health. He ensures initiatives align with national standards and health priorities, advancing continuous learning, service quality, and a skilled workforce to improve reproductive health in Ethiopia. Dr. Mitiku is a health systems and policy specialist.

Dr. Kalkidan Yitayew (MD, MPH-RH)

SRH Regional Consultant
kalkidan.yitayew@spirhr.org

She is a medical doctor and SRH advocate, serving as SRH Regional Consultant at SPIRHR. She coordinates regional SRH programs, focusing on capacity building, advocacy, and research to improve reproductive health services across Ethiopia. Working with partners, Dr. Kalkidan ensures programs align with national priorities. Her leadership promotes evidence-based practices, boosts impact, and supports sustainable maternal and reproductive health improvements, enhancing access to quality care for women and communities.