Woyzero Tsehai Desta Mariam

Ethiopia's first female physician who pioneered medical education and women's rights in the early 20th century

Early Life & Breakthrough

Woyzero Tsehai Desta Mariam (1898-1968) was born in Addis Ababa during a time when women's education was severely restricted in Ethiopia. Defying societal norms, she secured a scholarship to study medicine in Paris, becoming the country's first female physician in 1926. Her Wikipedia page highlights her pioneering work in establishing Ethiopia's first midwifery school in 1930.

Medical Contributions

Dr. Tsehai's 1940s initiative to create mobile clinics addressed rural healthcare gaps, treating over 50,000 patients annually. Her 1952 book Healthcare for the Ethiopian Woman remains a foundational text in public health studies. She also co-founded the Ethiopian Red Cross Society in 1953.

Education Legacy

In 1960, she established the Tsehai Technical School teaching nursing and midwifery, training over 800 professionals. Her advocacy led to legislation requiring government funding for women's healthcare facilities. The Ethiopian Ministry of Health still honors her contributions through annual awards.