Ethiopian Airlines awarded Brazil’s Order of Rio Branco

ADDIS ABABA – The Brazilian government has bestowed the honor of the Order of Rio Branco on Ethiopian airlines.

The airlines received the top honor from the South African nation for “the spectacular service” Ethiopian rendered to Brazil during the high-time of the Coronavirus Pandemic, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

On various occasions, the airlines transported Personal protective equipment [PPE] and other medical supplies to Brazil when the pandemic was at its height in the South American nation.

Ethiopian Cargo and Logistics Services also transported COVID-19 vaccine to Brazil.

After the airline delivered the vaccine from Shanghai to São Paulo in April, 2021, the then CEO of Ethiopian, Tewolde GebreMariam, said the airlines “commitment to fighting against the pandemic and saving lives has been unwavering in Africa and beyond.”

Tewolde, who retired from his CEO top position at the airlines this week, is among the recipients of Brazil’s highest order medal.

The director of operations for Ethiopian Airlines for Brazil and South America, Girum Abebe, and two other staff members of the Airlines have also received the medals.

The Order of Rio Branco is bestowed annually to people who provide meritorious service to Brazil.