SHEGER – LESSO Ethiopia Trading Plc has inaugurated a cutting-edge factory in Sheger City, a milestone that strengthens Ethiopia’s infrastructure manufacturing sector by boosting local production and reducing reliance on imports.
During the inauguration ceremony held yesterday, the company’s CEO, Abiy Geremew, stated that since its establishment in 2016, LESSO has played a crucial role in supplying high-quality pipes for water transmission, waste disposal, and electrical conduits to major construction projects.
As the sole agent of China LESSO Group Holdings Limited, the company has integrated international quality standards and advanced technology into Ethiopia’s infrastructure development.
The new factory aims to reduce reliance on imports, strengthen local production, and conserve foreign currency, according to Abiy. “With advanced technology and a focus on knowledge transfer, the facility will enhance Ethiopia’s capacity to produce high-quality infrastructure products while also providing training and professional support to engineers and industry professionals,” he said.
The inauguration marked the completion of phase one, transitioning LESSO Ethiopia from an agent to a producer. Abiy also announced the groundbreaking for phase two, which is expected to create numerous job opportunities upon completion.
The Mayor of Sheger City, Teshome Adugna (PhD), highlighted the factory’s contribution to the country’s import substitution efforts.
He affirmed the city administration’s commitment to creating a favorable investment environment, noting plans to attract 200 billion Birr in investments this year. “The city’s investment situation is enhancing,” he concluded.
LESSO Overseas Senior Director, Wes Wong, emphasized the company’s strong relationship with LESSO Ethiopia and outlined plans for deeper cooperation.
“We will deepen cooperation in four dimensions: developing and customizing products to meet specific sector needs, developing a technology support training program, promoting LESSO in the global market, and extending our supply chain cooperation from raw materials to goods and loads,” Wong stated. “Today is not only a starting point for a new factory but also a milestone.”
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 30 MARCH 2025
