ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia’s growing electricity demand is placing significant pressure on the country’s energy sector.
Manufacturers and industry stakeholders are calling for strengthened collaboration with government authorities to streamline regulatory processes and enhance the supply chain in order to ensure a more reliable and sustainable electricity supply.
Belayab Cable Manufacturers and a leading figure in the Ethiopian Electric Generation, Transmission, and Distribution Manufacturers Association President Wondesen Belay emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration between industry players and government agencies.
Speaking to the Ethiopian Press Agency(EPA), Wondesen stressed that the involvement of manufacturers and suppliers in the regulatory process could help address the sector’s challenges more effectively.
“By engaging manufacturers and suppliers in the creation of practical guidelines, we can remove unnecessary barriers, leading to more efficient and timely implementation of energy projects,” Wondesen said.
He pointed out that the country’s current electricity shortage is largely due to a lack of coordination between stakeholders, and that concerted efforts are needed to align the country’s power generation capacity with its demand.
The Ethiopian Ministry of Industry has taken steps to address these issues by establishing a platform that allows producers to work together and engage in open dialogue with relevant government bodies. This initiative is designed to give manufacturers and suppliers a unified voice, enabling them to resolve individual challenges and advocate for more effective solutions.
“The absence of coordination has led to significant supply gaps,” Wondesen noted. “To meet Ethiopia’s growing demand for electricity, we need to find ways to generate the necessary resources within the country and ensure that they are efficiently distributed.”
General Power and Board Member of the Electro-Mechanical Association Managing Director Yeneneh Dawit also highlighted several barriers affecting the electricity supply chain. Among the key issues are the scarcity of foreign exchange, bureaucratic hurdles within Ethiopia’s procurement system, and the complexities of negotiating agreements with the government.
“We must work collectively to solve these problems,” said Yeneneh . “The government’s continued support for domestic electricity production and supply companies are critical in creating a functional and sustainable energy network.”
Stakeholders agree that overcoming these challenges requires a holistic approach that combines government action, industry collaboration, and improved infrastructure investment. With continued dialogue and a unified approach, Ethiopia’s manufacturers are optimistic that the country can overcome its electricity supply constraints and pave the way for long-term energy security.
BY ESSEYE MENGISTE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 2 MAY 2025
