With a strong understanding of manufacturing industry, Ethiopia is aggressively engaged in promoting the sector for a third year now. The Ethiopia Tamirt or “Made in Ethiopia” initiative is a movement to boost Ethiopia’s manufacturing industry to make the best out of it and significantly transform the country’s economy.
The indispensable role of the manufacturing sector cannot be overstated. It can be considered almost a panacea for the economic development of any country in the world. Still it would also be fair to argue that the development of manufacturing industry cannot be more relevant to country than Ethiopia, which fulfills majority of the requirements for its rapid development.
For instance, Ethiopia has a vast accumulation of human resource, raw material, affordable and clean energy resource, strategic geographical positioning in the cross roads of the world’s major economic and trade routes, as well as a viable investment and industry policy that entices foreigners too.
Another breathtaking topic is Ethiopia is suitable for diverse areas of manufacturing. For instance, it is suitable for agro processing, food and beverage, garment and textile, pharmaceuticals, electric and electronics, vehicles, chemicals, among others.
The manufacturing sector is a vital engine of economic growth. The sector contributes significantly to the gross domestic product (GDP) in many countries. In addition to that, it is also highly acclaimed for its role to generate substantial employment opportunities. The sector employs millions of individuals, providing occupations that span from low-skill labor to highly specialized technical jobs.
This role of the sector highly appeals to countries like Ethiopia. Off late the county’s population is estimated to be more than 130 million which makes it one of the most populous countries in Africa and even the world. It is also noted that majority of the country’s population is young and at working age. The expansion of manufacturing industry becomes a handier topic as it can accommodate such large number of population. Furthermore, this productive section of the population can also be a vital input to fast track the growth of the industry and attracts potential investors.
Additionally, the manufacturing industry drives technological advancement and efficiency. Over the last few years, there has been a significant push towards automation and smart manufacturing practices, fueled by advancements in technology. Ethiopia is also working aggressively to advance in science and technology that is becoming determinant factor in the future development of the industry sector.
In spite of all these, Ethiopia has not yet adequately reaped the benefits from its manufacturing industry potential. Though the country has scored some good start in the sector, it still has to go a long and baffling distance ahead to harness the sectors potential.
To this end, the government has launched the “Made in Ethiopia” initiative that aims to fast track the growth of the sector. This year the third edition of the initiative will take place starting from tomorrow.
The five-day event will highlight the latest advancements in industrial technology and serve as a platform to strengthen Ethiopia’s manufacturing sector under the theme of the “Made in Ethiopia” movement.
The minister also credited local industries for overcoming critical challenges, increasing production capacity, and contributing to the growing acceptance of domestically produced goods.
The Expo is expected to draw more than 120,000 visitors from both local and international markets and set 288 participant industries, he stated, noting trade transactions during the event are projected to exceed four billion Birr.
Ethiopia’s industrial development move is getting tough, and the tough ones should get going. Therefore, being part of the unwavering journey of Ethiopia’s industrial development is an issue no one should think twice about.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 2 MAY 2025
