African Development Bank Commits US$184 Million to Support Adama–Awash Expressway Phase II

Addis Ababa, December 11, 2025 (FMC) — The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the African Development Bank (AfDB) signed a USD 184 million Grant Agreement on Wednesday to support the Ethiopia–Djibouti–South Sudan Transport Corridor Project – Phase II.

The financing will enable the construction of a 67-kilometer expressway from Melka Jilo to Awash, a critical missing link along the Addis Ababa–Djibouti corridor. This route handles more than 90% of Ethiopia’s maritime trade, making it indispensable for national logistics, regional connectivity, and economic integration across the Horn of Africa.

During the signing ceremony, Ahmed Shide, Minister of Finance, emphasized that the project is aligned with the Horn of Africa Initiative and reflects Ethiopia’s strong commitment to regional stability, cooperation, and deeper integration.

Beyond road infrastructure, the project includes trade facilitation measures, skills development for youth and women, and community-focused initiatives designed to ensure long-term, inclusive benefits.

The Agreement was signed by Mr. Ahmed Shide, Minister of Finance of Ethiopia, and Dr. Alex Mubiru, Director General for East Africa at the African Development Bank.

The signing follows a productive meeting between Minister Ahmed Shide and Dr. Mubiru, who is on his first official visit to Ethiopia. Dr. Mubiru reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation across multiple areas, including: Budget support to help sustain Ethiopia’s reform agenda, financing for major infrastructure projects, notably the Ethiopian Airlines Bishoftu Mega Airport, and continued engagement across key social and economic sectors.