Ethiopia has made significant strides in infrastructure development, with numerous projects ranging from transport systems to industrial facilities and basic living structures. However, the quality of these projects remains a concern. Sector professionals suggest that addressing this issue requires educational improvements, policy revisions, and stronger international partnerships.
Deputy Prime Minister TemesgenTiruneh recently highlighted the government’s commitment to the construction industry, noting that Ethiopia’s 10-year development plan prioritizes roads, railways, and special economic zones. The sector now contributes 21 percent to the country’s GDP.
Despite these achievements, the quality of construction projects is often criticized. General Wingate Polytechnic College’s Construction Department Dean, Belay Debebe, pointed to a significant knowledge gap in the industry.
He asserted that well-trained human resources are essential for the growth of the construction sector. Currently, most professionals enter the field through trial and error, which hampers the industry’s efficiency and its ability to adopt new technologies. Additionally, the increasing reliance on traditional construction workers has led to a decrease in formal training, with the number of graduates from institutions like General Wingate Polytechnic College falling from thousands to hundreds in recent years.
To address these challenges, Belay emphasizes the need for collaboration between educational institutions and construction companies to plan, train, and certify skilled professionals. Ethiopia must focus on developing its human capital to apply modern technologies and systems in construction.
The Ethiopian construction industry is heavily influenced by Chinese contractors. Many local contractors struggle to match the capabilities of their Chinese counterparts. However, Belay suggests that local professionals often work alongside the Chinese contractors, indicating a potential for collaboration that can benefit Ethiopia’s construction sector. This calls for attention to ensure that local expertise is better utilized in projects.
Belay also notes that construction projects involving traditional workers are often prone to failure, particularly in areas such as pipeline construction for clean water and wastewater management. This underscores the importance of a coordinated effort from all stakeholders, especially the government, to address these issues and ensure that projects meet the required standards.
International support plays a crucial role in addressing Ethiopia’s construction challenges. German Construction Contractors FederationDeputy CEO Heinz Rittmann, emphasized Germany’s ongoing support for Ethiopia’s construction sector. He told The Ethiopian Herald that Germany has been providing technical assistance, material support, and vocational training opportunities for Ethiopian professionals. These efforts align with Ethiopia’s sustainable development goals, particularly in water supply and wastewater management. Rittmann also highlighted the potential benefits of public-private partnerships in advancing Ethiopia’s construction sector.
Drawing lessons from successful countries like Germany, Ethiopia could benefit from stronger collaboration between public and private sectors. Rittmann pointed out the gaps in Ethiopian training institutions, many of which primarily offer theoretical courses and lack the practical materials needed for hands-on training. This has led to a shortage of employable graduates, many of whom struggle to find jobs due to insufficient practical skills.
The German Construction Contractors Federation has been instrumental in facilitating capacity-building programs for Ethiopian contractors. Over the past two years, more than 30 Ethiopian engineering graduates have received practical training and job opportunities in Germany. The current initiative, which aims to send skilled professionals and TVET graduates to Germany for further training, is a step toward bridging the skills gap in Ethiopia’s construction sector. The demand for trained professionals in areas such as water supply and wastewater disposal is high in Germany, and Ethiopian professionals have the opportunity to gain valuable experience through this collaboration.
Oromia Construction Contractors Association Director General, DadiGeda, noted that his association has benefitted from partnerships with Rittmann’s Federation, receiving training, materials, and support. However, he also highlighted challenges within Ethiopia’s construction sector, such as shortages in construction materials and financial instability. These issues have caused many local contractors to abandon their projects, and Dadi remains optimistic that the government will address these challenges.
General Contractor Eng. MelakuTesfaye, echoed the importance of international partnerships in improving Ethiopia’s construction sector. He emphasized the need for training in specialized fields like electricity, finishing, and masonry, as well as sanitary construction for water supply and wastewater management. He believes that the collaboration with Germany’s contractors’ federation is a crucial step in resolving these gaps.
Strengthening global partnerships and enhancing local training programs are key to building a competent workforce that can execute high-quality projects. With the right support and collaboration, Ethiopia can improve its construction sector, ensuring that it contributes effectively to the country’s economic development and sustainable growth, the professionals suggested.
BY YOHANES JEMANEH
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 16 MARCH 2025
