PM Abiy stresses mindset shift to transform natural endowments into national prosperity

Addis Ababa, March 23, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stressed the need for a shift in mindset to harness Ethiopia’s natural endowments and translate them into sustainable national prosperity.

The Prime Minister made the remarks during the inauguration of Niin Lee Palm Lodge in the Afar Regional State on Sunday, the first completed project under the Prime Ministerial “Dine for Generations” initiative.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Abiy described the Afar region as an area endowed with remarkable natural beauty and resources, noting that landscapes stretching from Afdera to Erta Ale, along with naturally occurring hot springs, present significant opportunities for development. He emphasized that showcasing the beauty and grace of nature is, in itself, a major opportunity for the country.

He stressed that realizing such potential requires a fundamental shift in mindset, urging a move away from pessimism, inaction, and narrow thinking.

The Prime Minister underlined that meaningful change can only be achieved by overcoming difficulties, looking beyond immediate challenges, and committing to sustained hard work.

He cautioned that negative thinking and complacency can delay or undermine progress, noting that even where good ideas exist, they can be weakened by contrary attitudes.

Highlighting local wisdom, Premier Abiy cited sayings from the Afar community that emphasize diligence and initiative, including the notion that opportunity does not favor those who remain idle, and that effort is essential to transform potential into tangible results.

He said such perspectives reflect the enduring values of perseverance and resilience among the people of the region.

The Prime Minister noted that despite its vast potential, Afar has remained largely underdeveloped, adding that similar efforts should have begun decades ago. He stressed the need to accelerate ongoing work and expand development initiatives across the region through coordinated efforts involving the private sector and regional leadership.

He further emphasized the importance of understanding and utilizing the country’s natural blessings, stating that even modest investments, when combined with commitment and effort, can create significant opportunities for future generations.

He added that further research into the area’s water resources, mineral deposits, and plant species could help uncover additional, untapped economic value.

Abiy also pointed to the importance of linking development projects and natural attractions to create integrated tourism destinations, noting that such efforts could help transform areas like Afar into major tourist hubs. He referenced ongoing efforts to nurture initial developments and expand them into broader, interconnected initiatives.

Addressing broader challenges, the Prime Minister noted global pressures affecting key resources such as fuel and fertilizer, and stressed that Ethiopia can mitigate such challenges by effectively utilizing its own natural endowments, including land and rainfall, particularly through expanded agricultural activity.

He warned that ignorance and failure to recognize natural potential can hinder progress, stating that lack of awareness can slow development and limit opportunities. Emphasizing the importance of preparedness, the Prime Minister said change benefits those who are ready to act, adding that without the willingness to transform available resources into productive assets, potential will remain unrealized.

The Prime Minister reiterated that sustained effort is required to build on current progress, noting that while important foundations have been laid, continued work is necessary to expand development, strengthen existing gains, and ensure long-term impact for the region and the country.