The 2026 iCMLf Prize
Associate Professor Amha Gebremedhin
In many parts of the world, progress in the treatment of CML depends not only on scientific advances, but on individuals who translate those advances into a reality for patients. Associate Professor Amha Gebremedhin, recently retired Consultant Internist and Hematologist at Addis Ababa University and Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia, is one such individual. Over a distinguished career dedicated to the care of his patients, education for colleagues, and building capacity at his hospital, he has played a transformative role in advancing CML management in Ethiopia and beyond.
The iCMLf is proud to award Dr Gebremedhin the 2026 iCMLf Prize in recognition of these achievements. This award honors individuals who have made outstanding and sustained contributions to advancing access to diagnostics, treatment, and care for patients with CML, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Transforming CML in Ethiopia through vision and persistence
Over several decades, Dr Gebremedhin has played a pivotal role in advancing the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of CML in Ethiopia. Working within a resource-limited setting, he has been instrumental in advocating for patient access to life-saving therapies through the Max Foundation, and in supporting their inclusion into clinical practice.
At Addis Ababa University, he has helped establish dedicated hematology services and contributed to the development of structured care pathways for patients with hematologic malignancies. His efforts have ensured that increasing numbers of patients can be diagnosed earlier, monitored more effectively, and treated according to international standards despite significant systemic challenges.
Through his leadership in training programs and fellowship development, he has contributed to a substantial increase in the number of trained hematologists in the country, an achievement with long term impact on patients with CML in Ethiopia.
"In this context, Dr Gebremedhin emerges as an outstanding figure, having provided medical care and support for patients with CML during a period of significant economic and social hardship in Ethiopia, characterized by wars and ethnic tensions. He has achieved this while maintaining contact with the international scientific community on both diagnostic and therapeutic matters."
- Professor Guiseppe Saglio
A lasting partnership with the iCMLf
Amha Gebremedhin’s work is closely intertwined with the mission of the iCMLf. He participated in the iCMLf Preceptorship Program in Australia, an experience that proved transformative, equipping him with the enhanced knowledge and international perspective needed to strengthen CML management in Ethiopia.
Since 2011, he has remained an active and valued member of the iCMLf community. He has contributed his expertise to the iCMLf Knowledge Centre and plays an important role in Regional Discussion Groups in Africa, supporting peer learning and collaboration across the continent.
A distinguished clinical and academic career
Associate Professor Gebremedhin’s career reflects a longstanding commitment to clinical excellence, education, and service. He obtained his undergraduate medical training at Semmelweis University in Budapest, followed by specialization in internal medicine at Addis Ababa University and subspecialty training in hematology at McGill University in Canada.
He has served for many years as Consultant Internist and Hematologist and Associate Professor of Medicine at Addis Ababa University, where he also held key leadership roles, including Head of the Hematology Unit and Head of the Department of Internal Medicine.
As an educator, he has trained generations of medical students, residents, and young specialists, while also contributing to the development of hematology and pediatric oncology curricula in Ethiopia.
An enduring legacy in CML care
Associate Professor Gebremedhin’s work exemplifies the spirit of the iCMLf Prize: advancing equitable access to high-quality treatment, building sustainable expertise, and improving outcomes for patients with CML worldwide. His legacy is reflected not only in the systems he has helped build, but in the many patients who are alive because of his efforts, and in the clinicians, he has trained who carry this work forward for generations to come.