The A to Z Podcast

Transforming Healthcare in Ethiopia: The Pioneer Behind Insurance & Innovation

Dr. AZ Habtewold

With special guest: Dr. Girma Ababi | Founder & CEO of Liyana Healthcare plc, Liyana Digital Healthcare Solutions plc, and Liyana-Oxy Medical Gas Manufacturing | Healthcare Investor | Industry Pioneer

He didn’t just practice medicine – he built an ecosystem. Dr. Girma Ababi has been at the forefront of Ethiopia’s healthcare transformation, pioneering the country’s health insurance industry and expanding its health infrastructure. Through hospitals, digital healthcare, and medical gas manufacturing, he’s redefining access, equity, and quality in one of Africa’s fastest-growing markets.

This episode isn’t just about medicine. It’s about visionary leadership, coalition building, and scaling systems that change lives and entire nations.
Discussion Points
1. From Physician to System Builder
How Dr. Ababi’s transition from practicing medicine to building enterprises reveals the mindset leaders need to scale beyond themselves.

2. Insurance & Financing Models for Growth
The pioneering role of health insurance in Ethiopia – and what it takes to design systems that stabilize organizations while expanding access.

3. Digital Transformation in Healthcare
Why tele-health and digital platforms are more than technology upgrades – they’re strategic levers for scaling services and creating sustainable impact.

4. Coalition Building & Influence
How Dr. Ababi leverages associations, partnerships, and policy networks to amplify his impact – and what leaders everywhere can learn about borrowing influence, building alliances, and expanding their reach beyond their own resources.

5. Legacy, Sustainability & Exit Strategies
What leaders in healthcare – and beyond – can learn about building organizations that endure, attract investment, and leave lasting legacies for future generations.

About the Guest
Dr. Girma Ababi is the Founder & CEO of Liyana Healthcare plc, Liyana Digital Healthcare Solutions plc, and Liyana-Oxy Medical Gas Manufacturing. A physician, healthcare investor, and industry pioneer, he has been instrumental in expanding Ethiopia’s healthcare infrastructure and shaping the country’s health insurance industry.

With over two decades of experience, Dr. Ababi has built hospitals, launched tele-health solutions, and led groundbreaking initiatives in medical gas manufacturing to support clinical operations nationwide. He has also served as Vice President of the National Private Health Facilities Association, led regional healthcare associations, and continues to play a pivotal role in advancing healthcare policy, access, and investment across Africa.

Watch it. Share it with your colleagues. This is a masterclass in healthcare leadership, innovation, and impact you don’t want to miss.

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