This transition sees the departure of Sahle-Work Zewde, Ethiopia's first female President, who has been a prominent figure in the country's political landscape.

Taye Astike Selassie, who has served as the Foreign Minister since February, steps into a role that is largely symbolic, as executive power is held by the Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed.

The change in Presidency comes amidst reports of a rift between Sahle-Work and Prime Minister Abiy, who had initially championed her appointment in 2018 as a significant stride towards gender equality in Ethiopian politics.

With Sahle-Work's exit, Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu Hassan now stands as the sole female head of state in Africa.

The Ethiopian parliament's decision underscores the dynamic nature of the nation's political sphere and sets the stage for Taye Astike Selassie's tenure as President.

--ChannelAfrica/Reuters--