At just 23 years old, Cherinet Hariffo has made history as the youngest-ever Permanent Observer of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to the United Nations.
His appointment made on March 7, 2025, serves not only as a diplomatic milestone—it is the culmination of a journey marked by resilience, displacement, and an unwavering commitment to advocacy.
A Journey Shaped by Displacement
Born in Ethiopia, Hariffo’s early life was upended when he and his family were forced to flee their home. At just nine years old, he arrived in Kenya as a refugee, where survival meant navigating a world of uncertainty and once resulted to selling boiled eggs in the streets of Nairobi to make ends meet.
Education was not always guaranteed, and opportunities were scarce, but he was determined to carve out a future for himself.
His path eventually led him to the United States, where he pursued higher education. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and legal studies from Temple University and is currently enrolled in a master’s program in public administration at the University of Pennsylvania.
His academic focus has always aligned with his deep interest in governance, human rights, and sustainable development.
A Passion for Advocacy and Leadership
Hariffo’s experiences as a refugee ignited his passion for youth advocacy and policy work. He has been involved in various international organizations, lending his voice to underrepresented communities.
Before his current appointment, Hariffo served as a youth policy adviser at the Permanent Mission of Djibouti to the UN. He also played a key role at the Institute for Conscious Global Change, focusing on international partnerships and sustainable development. His passion for equitable education and refugee rights has made him a strong advocate for the acceleration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Beyond his formal roles, he has engaged in volunteer work with the African Union’s Mission to the UN, the Permanent Mission of Djibouti, and UNHCR, advocating for refugee rights and equitable access to education.
His leadership in youth-led organizations, such as the African Diaspora Youth Network, has inspired many young people across Africa to engage in social and political change.
A Multicultural Diplomat
Hariffo’s ability to connect across cultures is one of his defining strengths, having travelled to over 23 countries, and developed a global outlook on policy and governance. He is also fluent in 6 languages, enabling him to communicate and negotiate across diverse diplomatic and cultural spaces.
His multifaceted background allows him to bring a fresh perspective to IGAD’s engagement at the United Nations, particularly on issues related to youth empowerment, climate resilience, regional security, and economic development.
Vision for the Future
As IGAD’s Permanent Observer to the UN, Hariffo aims to strengthen regional cooperation and ensure that the voices of displaced communities and young people are included in high-level policy discussions. He has spoken openly about his commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and believes that diplomacy should serve as a tool for tangible impact in people’s lives.
Reflecting on his journey, Hariffo acknowledges the power of opportunity and mentorship. He has credited Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD’s Executive Secretary, for believing in his potential and giving him a platform to contribute meaningfully to regional and global diplomacy.
“From being displaced as a child to standing among senior diplomats, this is not what I could have imagined seven years ago. But here we are. “he shared on his X platform upon his appointment.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Cherinet Hariffo stands as a symbol of perseverance and progress, proving that no matter where one starts, dedication and purpose can open doors to global leadership.
