PM Abiy: Ethiopia’s gas projects to drive industrial growth and food self-sufficiency

Addis Ababa, September 22, 2018 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) said Ethiopia’s large-scale energy projects will be key drivers for industrialization, fertilizer production, and national food self-sufficiency. His remarks came during the inauguration of the first phase of the Ogaden Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project and the foundation-laying of the Gode Urea Fertilizer Plant and Gode Oil Refinery in the Somali Region of Ethiopia.

“This 1,000-megawatt gas energy project — half the capacity of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam — will light the way for industrial and agricultural transformation,” the Prime Minister said, noting that reliable energy on this scale will significantly reduce dependence on imports and strengthen Ethiopia’s food production.

He confirmed that around 2,000 buses in Addis Ababa and nearby areas will switch to gas this year, cutting transportation costs by at least 50 percent.

He also stressed that gas-powered heavy vehicles can travel up to 1,500 kilometers per fill, offering major economic and logistical advantages for the country.

Abiy stated that traditional-fuel heavy vehicles will face import restrictions, while investors bringing in gas-powered alternatives will receive tax-free incentives. “Gas will serve multiple purposes — powering food production, transportation, and industry — and will play a central role in Ethiopia’s development,” he said.

The Prime Minister framed these initiatives as part of a bold strategy: Ethiopia’s mega-projects aim to leap over challenges and deliver long-term benefits, rather than incremental fixes.

“By investing in large-scale energy and industrial projects, we are securing sustainable progress for all Ethiopians,” he added.