Includes bibliographical references and index.

The earlier years of my life -- Life of hardship in Finfinnee -- Back in Gimbi, 1948 -- On the road to serious education -- Pu rsuing higher education -- Embarking on a career of my choice -- My association with Yilma Deressa -- Looking toward overseas for sur vival -- The revolution of 1974 -- The next turn--the United Nati ons/UNDP -- Light at the end of the tunnel- it seemed -- In New Y ork, reading and writing -- A risky path -- Concentrating on Awas h International Bank -- Intrigue in the board -- Looking beyond t he bank -- Devoting my time to Oromo burning issues -- Campaignin g under siege -- The invasion of Somalia : an invasion without cause -- My decision to step aside -- Final remarks.