Late.Dr. Vali Jamal

Dr. Vali Jamal, a luminary in the fields of development economics and social justice advocacy, dedicated his life to uplifting the marginalized and challenging systemic injustices. As one of the founders of the African Child Policy Forum (ACPF), based in Addis Ababa, he played a pivotal role in shaping policies to protect and advance the rights of children across Africa.

Vali's academic prowess and professional achievements underscored his commitment to effecting positive change. Educated at Trinity College, Cambridge, and Stanford University, where he earned a PhD in Economics, he possessed a rare blend of intellectual rigor and compassionate advocacy. His extensive career at the International Labour Organization (ILO), particularly in the Jobs and Skills Programme for Africa (JASPA), provided him with a platform to address issues of employment, poverty, and inequality with a focus on their impact on vulnerable populations.

A prolific writer and meticulous stylist, Vali's work spanned diverse economies and societal contexts, from Somalia to Vietnam. His publications delved into critical issues such as de-agrarianization, structural adjustment, and income inequality, shedding light on the complexities of development and social transformation.