EJIGU, KITAW
- 2 Min Read
PHOTO CAPTION: Kitaw Ejigu.
Kitaw Ejigu (February 25, 1948 – January 13, 2006) was an Ethiopian-American scientist and aerospace engineer renowned for his significant contributions to NASA’s space missions and for his visionary leadership in promoting technological and scientific development in Ethiopia.
Born in 1948 in Bonga, a town in Ethiopia’s Kaffa Province, Ejigu spent his early years in a rural environment that nurtured his curiosity and passion for scientific inquiry. His father, Ejigu Fant, was a farmer, while his mother, Tsehai, managed the household and actively supported farm work. Their perseverance and commitment laid a strong foundation for Kitaw Ejigu’s educational journey.
Ejigu began his formal education in local schools in Bonga before relocating to Jimma to complete his secondary education. His exceptional academic performance earned him a scholarship to study in Japan, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Kyoto University. Motivated by a deep interest in aerospace engineering, he later moved to the United States, earning both a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Cincinnati.
Following the completion of his studies, Kitaw Ejigu launched a distinguished career in aerospace engineering. He joined the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), where he played key roles in several major projects, including the Space Shuttle program. His professional work focused on the development of advanced navigation and control systems critical to spacecraft performance and mission success.
Beyond his achievements in aerospace science, Ejigu remained deeply committed to the advancement of Ethiopia. He sought to apply his expertise to foster technological innovation and economic development in his homeland. To this end, he founded the Ethiopian Scientific Society and championed numerous initiatives aimed at strengthening scientific research, education, and technological capacity in Ethiopia.
Kitaw Ejigu passed away on January 13, 2006, in Walnut Creek, California, due to complications from a stroke. He is remembered as an Ethiopian-American aerospace engineer, inventor, and political figure. His career spanned advanced engineering roles and leadership in technological development, and his life continues to inspire discussions about the contributions of Ethiopian scientists in global aerospace and innovation.
