Abeje Berhanu Kassegne, PhD

Dr. Abeje Berhanu Kassegne

Dr. Abeje Berhanu Kassegne is a prominent Ethiopian sociologist and academic faculty member at Addis Ababa University (AAU). His work is deeply rooted in the social sciences, focusing on rural development, human security, and the social norms governing vulnerable populations.

Dr. Kassegne is a key researcher for several high-impact international initiatives, including the Water and Food Security PIRE project (in collaboration with the University of Connecticut) and the "Yes I Do" Alliance. His research often bridges the gap between social dimensions and governance, exploring how gender, migration, and youth empowerment drive social transformation in Ethiopia and across the globe.

Academic Background

  • Doctoral Research, School of Natural and Rural Systems Management, The University of Queensland.
  • Senior Faculty Member, Department of Sociology, Addis Ababa University.
  • Expertise in Rural Household Surveys and Development Methodology.

Core Research Interests

  • Rural Livelihoods: Indigenous farming systems and peasant entrepreneurship.
  • Migration & Urbanization: The rural-urban nexus and livelihood diversification.
  • Social Norms & Youth: Traditional practices (FGM/C, child marriage) and economic empowerment.
  • Water Governance: Integrating social science dimensions into water and food security.

Selected Publications

  • Kassegne, A. B. (2023). Drivers of child marriage in specific settings of Ethiopia, Indonesia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia. International Strategic Alliance Report.
  • Kassegne, A. B. (2022). What makes a woman? Understanding the reasons for and circumstances of female genital mutilation/cutting in Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Kenya. Social Transformations Journal.
  • Kassegne, A. B. (2018). Peasant entrepreneurship and rural poverty reduction: The case of model farmers in Bure Woreda. Journal of Rural Development.