President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Champions Infrastructure as the Backbone of Africa’s Future at 8th PIDA Week
Delivering the opening address at the 8th Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) Week on 26 November 2024, President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia H.E Taye Atske Selassie, highlighted the transformative potential of resilient and inclusive infrastructure for Africa’s sustainable growth. The President reaffirmed infrastructure as the cornerstone of the continent’s socioeconomic progress.
“The theme of this year’s PIDA Week, ‘Fostering Resilient and Inclusive Infrastructure for Africa’s Sustainable Growth’, underscores the pivotal role of infrastructure in propelling Africa’s development, enhancing connectivity, and improving lives through increased trade and investment,” the President stated.
President Selassie emphasised PIDA’s critical role in realising the goals of Agenda 2063, Africa’s strategic framework for economic transformation. He praised the collaborative efforts of the African Union Commission (AUC), AUDA-NEPAD, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and other stakeholders in advancing infrastructure projects that foster integration and prosperity.
“PIDA is not just about connecting countries—it’s about laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth, strengthening intra-African trade, and fostering a truly interconnected future,” he remarked.
Notable successes include the North-South Corridor, which links Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam port with Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and the Central Corridor, connecting Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. Additionally, the recently signed agreement to establish infrastructure connections between Ethiopia and South Sudan marks a significant step toward deeper regional integration. These corridors are set to enhance mobility, boost trade, and open new opportunities for regional cooperation.
The President noted Ethiopia’s significant strides in infrastructure development as a testament to the broader PIDA agenda. Among the country’s accomplishments:
- Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway: Africa’s first cross-border electrified railway, which has drastically reduced transportation costs and improved trade efficiency.
- Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and Koisha Hydropower Dam: Landmark renewable energy projects contributing to regional energy security.
- East African Power Pool (EAPP): Ethiopia’s leadership in electricity exchange across member countries to enhance energy availability.
- Sea-Air Cargo Project: An innovative logistics initiative connecting Ethiopian Airlines with Djibouti Ports to deliver faster and more cost-effective trade solutions.
Overcoming Challenges and Driving the Future
Acknowledging persistent challenges, such as financing gaps, President Selassie called for innovative funding mechanisms, including public-private partnerships and the strengthening of African financial institutions. He also outlined four key priorities for PIDA’s future:
- Enhancing Connectivity through Innovation: Leveraging projects like the Sea-Air Cargo initiative to revolutionise trade.
- Strengthening Political Will and Regional Integration: Embracing initiatives like Open African Skies to facilitate seamless intra-African connectivity.
- Harmonising Policies and Regulations: Creating unified frameworks to streamline cross-border trade and investment.
- Harnessing Digital Technology: Investing in digital infrastructure and e-commerce to increase Africa’s global competitiveness.
President Selassie urged stakeholders to renew their commitment to PIDA, stressing the need for collaboration and innovative approaches to achieve shared goals. “Through our collective efforts, we can create a brighter future for Africa, built on the foundations of inclusive and sustainable infrastructure,” he said.
He also extended his gratitude to the African Union, AUDA-NEPAD, and other partners for their unwavering support in advancing the PIDA agenda.
“Together, let us build a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Africa,” he concluded.