ADDIS ABABA– Despite facing numerous internal and external challenges, Ethiopia has demonstrated remarkable resilience and achieved substantial growth across various sectors, the Ministry of Planning and Development (MoPID) said.
During a press briefing on the first day of Pagumen, celebrated as the ‘Day of Transformation,’ MoPID Minister Fistum Assefa (PhD) highlighted the nation’s significant progress despite the obstacles encountered on its journey.
Minister Fistum emphasized that the day is dedicated to celebrating achievements in agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and the energy sector. She noted that transformation is evident through capacity building, accumulated experience, and improved performance, as the country has shown promising results in these sectors despite various challenges.
Ethiopia has historically relied on wheat imports for over 60 years, with production primarily dependent on the Meher season. However, the country has shifted its policy, implementing agricultural mechanization and irrigation to revolutionize the sector. As a result, annual wheat production has increased from 50 million quintals to 230 million quintals. The adoption of agricultural technology, cluster farming, and irrigation has played a crucial role in this success.
Additionally, local innovations in agriculture have enabled the successful production of summer wheat by developing seeds that withstand summer weather conditions. These advancements have saved the nation over one billion USD previously spent on wheat imports, underscoring Ethiopia’s transformative journey in wheat development.
She also noted that the manufacturing industry has seen substantial improvements compared to previous years. Efforts to enhance the sector have increased foreign direct investment and boosted its global competitiveness. Industries that were previously halted due to infrastructure issues, conflict, and other challenges are now operating at 60% of their production capacity.
Industries such as food, textiles, medical supplies, and technology have significantly increased their production capacities, substituting imports worth two billion Birr. Furthermore, around 13 industrial parks, three agro-processing centers, and several privately-owned industrial parks are currently operational.
Given Ethiopia’s rich cultural and historical heritage, significant attention has been given to maximizing the economic benefits of the tourism sector. Ethiopia has launched initiatives like Dine for the Nation to leverage its tourism potential and has restored several tourist sites, including the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, Aba Jifar and the Grand Palace. New hotels and resorts developed under the Dine for the Nation project, now managed by Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, are also noteworthy accomplishments.
The near completion of the Abbay Dam, referred to as a “new victory of Adwa,” is another significant milestone in the nation’s transformation. According to Minister Fistum, the dam represents not only a triumph but also a catalyst for urbanization, industrialization, and economic growth.
“The overall achievements that have transformed Ethiopia’s journey towards realizing its goals would not have been possible without the dedication, energy, and knowledge of those who contributed to the success across all sectors. I extend my deepest appreciation to everyone involved,” she concluded.
BY BETELHEM BEDLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 2024
