Addis Ababa Is a “Beaming Signal” of Africa’s Development Potential: Malawian Political Leader

Addis Ababa, November 12, 2026 (FMC) – Addis Ababa’s rapid transformation offers an encouraging example of what African cities and countries can achieve through sustained development efforts, Malawian political participant Edine Mzmuma has observed, describing the Ethiopian capital as a “beaming signal” for the continent.

For Mzmuma, the significance of Addis Ababa lies not only in its expanding infrastructure and changing urban landscape, but also in the message its progress conveys to other African countries: development is within reach.

Speaking to Fana Media Corporation recently on the sidelines of the Second African Political Party Summit in Addis Ababa, he reflected on his first visit to the city, describing it as beautiful, vast and rapidly developing.

He pointed to the construction activities and infrastructure expansion visible across the capital, noting the scale of changes taking place. Having previously passed through Addis Ababa in transit, he said this visit had given him an opportunity to experience the city more closely.

It was his description of the capital as a “beaming signal” for Africa, however, that captured the broader significance he attached to Ethiopia’s development experience.

His observation carries a message beyond the city itself. By demonstrating what can be achieved through development, Addis Ababa offers an encouraging reference point for other African countries seeking to advance their own transformation.

Mzmuma also expressed interest in Ethiopia’s history, noting that he had heard about the country’s religious heritage and its struggle for freedom. He said he looked forward to discovering more about these aspects of the country during his visit.

His impressions were shared during the recently held Second African Political Party Summit, held in Addis Ababa from November 5 to 7 under the theme “Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa’s Economic Future.”

The gathering brought together political actors and stakeholders from across the continent to discuss governance, inclusive participation and Africa’s development priorities.

Mzmuma’s remarks place Addis Ababa’s development in a wider continental context: beyond being Ethiopia’s capital, the city can serve as a visible source of encouragement for African countries pursuing their own development ambitions.