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Biography of Major Paulos Getachew Nadew (The Light of Military Engineering, The Path of Ethiopian History) By Zemedu Demsis

 

For some, the saying "they are favored, not fought against" becomes a historical footnote. For the majority, facing struggle is inevitable. Those who, through both fortune and fight, have built a nation and shaped history, leaving a legacy for generations as a beacon by day and sustenance by night, are numerous. Yet, figures like Major Paulos Getachew Nadew are rare and extraordinary. In the fertile cradle of Ethiopia, a land renowned as the wellspring of heroes, the home of countless valorous deeds, and the archive of epic historical pages, individuals like Major Paulos stand as pioneers.

He was a guardian of the nation with his strength, a scribe of history with his pen, and a sharer of wisdom and philosophy with the people. Such a life of purpose and impact is a rarity in this era. Some live as embodiments of valor, creating their own epic tales. Those favored by destiny become architects of grand histories, writing and shaping them. 
Those who master wisdom become embodiments of intellect, sharing and elevating it. This truth shines through Major Paulos Getachew Nadew, a star that gleamed across eras, a 79-year legacy that left an indelible mark on Ethiopia. Today, we honor Major Paulos not as a distant figure but as "Anta" (You), a term of affection, for "Father" feels too formal.
Born into the family of General Getachew Nadew, Major Paulos, the radiant engineer, came into the world on July 5, 1946, in Addis Ababa, in a place called Gedam Sefer. Before leaving the skies of Addis Ababa, he began his early education, from grades 1 to 4, in Holeta Genet, a town in West Shewa. His life, shaped by the constant movement of a military family, led him to explore Ethiopia’s eastern regions. He continued his education from grades 4 to 6 at Harar Model School. Returning to Addis Ababa, he completed his primary and secondary education from grades 6 to 12 at Akaki Missionary School with distinction.

The brilliant engineer, a multifaceted historical figure, Major Paulos Getachew Nadew, did not seem to waver in following his father’s path. To realize this, he joined the military with a sincere heart and a disciplined commitment to serve his country. He pursued military engineering, graduated with a diploma, and became a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s military engineering.

His contributions went beyond accolades, as he left tangible, exemplary works in development and service that remain noteworthy to this day.This heroic soldier served in various military commands across Ethiopia. His notable contributions include:

* Serving as a coordinator in the national development campaign .
* Teaching at the Harar Military Academy as an instructor.
* Leading in the Third Lion Eastern Division under his father, General Getachew Nadew, alongside former EPRP President Colonel Mengistu Haile Mariam.
* Serving as a company commander in the 9th Commando Battalion at Geladin, fighting until wounded.
* Overseeing the engineering completion of a radar installation at Karamara.
* After six years of unjust imprisonment, declaring, “I have no quarrel with my country, only with the times,” he served as an engineering commander in the Southern Command, where he became acquainted with Hawassa.
* Contributing significantly to the establishment of national military stations, particularly with the Defense Construction Enterprise, alongside General Demse Goshu, in Tolay, Dedesa, Blate, Hurso, and other locations.
* Constructing and operationalizing airfields in Gambella and other southern regions, showcasing his engineering prowess.
* Studying and developing the Omorate cotton plantation project, contributing to one of Ethiopia’s largest mechanized farms.
* Designing numerous buildings in Hawassa, leaving a proud legacy in civil engineering, notably the Hussein Market Hall.
* Initiating and designing a library for inmates at Hawassa’s regional prison, collecting thousands of books to uplift them.
* Actively participating in the military, advocating for patriotism, discipline, and contributing insightful articles to various newspapers.
* Conducting extensive research on Ethiopian history, authoring three major books, two of which have been published, one in press, and a fourth in draft. His works, particularly “The History of Ethiopia’s Greatest Heroes,” exceeding 500 pages, highlight overlooked Ethiopian patriots, playing a significant role in historical preservation.

* Notably, during the fall of the Derg regime, Major Paulos returned over 500,000 birr in his possession to the government treasury without anyone demanding it—a testament to his integrity in a time when others betrayed the nation.

Despite physical challenges, Major Paulos explored the world through reading, research, and reflection from his home. His razor-sharp memory, recalling every detail of his life, books, and people, was unparalleled, earning him the title “The Iron Board” for his unyielding intellect. Through struggle, Major Paulos transformed adversity into opportunity, becoming an exemplary figure whose legacy transcends borders and time. He was a conversationalist who could turn a four-hour discussion into a four-year course. A historian, scientist, keeper of societal values, and champion of culture, his interviews, analyses, and speeches on major Ethiopian media platforms bear witness to his brilliance.

Major Paulos had many dreams, especially about publishing books. He once said, “If I live to 120, I’ll give you many books.” But death came early. We can only give thanks for the Creator’s will.

Married to Roman Admasu in January 1976, their union was blessed with children—Qidist, Misrak, Abel, and Yamariam.Major Paulos no longer troubles us with any more quest to himself. Today is his farewell, his final journey. We bear witness to what we know. 
On Monday, July 28, 2025, at the age of 79, after medical treatment, he rested from this world’s toil.May the Creator place his soul among our forefathers Abraham and Isaac. 
May strength be granted to his family, friends, colleagues, and children.

2025-07-29