CGIAR appoints new Board Chair

CGIAR has appointed H.E. Hailemariam Dessalegn Boshe as Chair of the CGIAR Board. He takes up the role with effect from 1 August 2026.

• He brings extensive experience of agricultural policy reform, multilateral climate negotiations, and leading research-focused institutions to the role.
• The appointment marks a significant moment for CGIAR as it works to scale science-based solutions across food, land, and water systems. 

As Prime Minister of Ethiopia from 2012 to 2018 he led the expansion of agricultural research and extension systems, supporting millions of smallholder farmers. He served as Chairperson of the African Union from 2013 to 2014 and represented African Heads of State and Government as lead negotiator at the Paris Climate Change conference (COP21).

Since leaving office, he has focused on advancing science-based approaches to agricultural development, including through the Hailemariam & Roman Foundation.

The appointment followed a selection process, started by the System Council Nominations Committee and handed over to the CGIAR Board Nominations Committee once established, which considered candidates for the role over six months. 

"Throughout my career, as a lecturer and researcher, Deputy Prime Minister, Prime Minister and board leader, I have worked to connect science with the decisions that shape food, land and water systems and people's lives. That work has never felt more urgent. CGIAR generates the research and the tools that farmers and communities need most, and has the partnerships to take those solutions to scale. I am committed to making sure we deliver on that potential."

H.E Hailemariam Dessalegn Boshe 

The CGIAR Board was established on 15 June 2026. It is composed of the Board Chairs of all 12 CGIAR research centers alongside six independent members, and is responsible for the governance and strategic oversight of the CGIAR System Organization.

"This is a significant moment for CGIAR. The new Board is well placed, and I am delighted that H.E Hailemariam Dessalegn Boshe will lead it as Chair. His experience and commitment to science-driven agricultural development make him exceptionally well suited to the role. I look forward to continuing to serve on the Board under his leadership."

Prof. Roel Merckx, outgoing CGIAR Board Chair, ex officio CGIAR Board member, and IITA Board Chair

Further information on the Board's composition and governance is available on the CGIAR governance pages.