University of Nairobi graduate Meles Alem appointed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed

Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Tuesday appointed Meles Alem, a graduate of the University of Nairobi as the new Ethiopia Ambassador to Kenya.

Ambassador Alem previously served as head of diaspora affairs at the Ethiopian embassy in Nairobi between 2011 and 2015.

While he was at the embassy, Alem acquired a Masters degree from the Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies in 2015.

President Uhuru Kenyatta (left) shakes hands with Mr Meles Alem, who has been picked to be Ethiopia's ambassador to Kenya (Daily Nation) Pulse Live Kenya

The incoming ambassador welcomed the appointment saying that he will be happy to serve in Kenya and strengthen the ties between the two states.

"The relationship between the countries is exemplary in the region and my task will be to strengthen and deepen these ties further.

"It is this passion that I will bring to Kenya when I finally take over," he told Nation.

Outgoing ambassador Dina Mufti Sid was reassigned to Egypt in the same capacity.

Sahle-Work Zewde

Prime Minister Ahmed made history when he appointed President Sahle-Work Zewde as the first female president of the nation.

Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde Pulse Live Kenya

Ms Zewde had previously worked as Director General of the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON).

President Uhuru Kenyatta was among the first to congratulate her recalling their previous collaborations.

"When Zewde served in Nairobi as the Director General of UNON, we held several fruitful consultative meetings and developed a great working relationship.

"It is this relationship that I look forward to strengthening as we work together for the mutual benefit of our two countries," Uhuru stated.