Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (FMC) – The African Development Bank (AfDB) has reaffirmed its commitment to Ethiopian Airlines’ Bishoftu Mega Airport project, describing it as a transformative Pan-African initiative poised to enhance connectivity, trade, and aviation across the continent.
Speaking at the Bishoftu airport project showcase, Max Magor Ndiaye, Director of the Syndication, Co-financing and Client Solutions Department at AfDB, addressed government officials, airline executives, diplomatic representatives, investors, contractors, and suppliers.
He delivered his remarks on behalf of AfDB Vice-President Solomon Kwenor, Vice-President for Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialization, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Finance, Ethiopian Airlines Group, and project advisors DAR, KPMG, and Clyde & Company in organizing the event.
Ndiaye emphasized that the AfDB’s role as Mandated Lead Arranger, Global Coordinator, and Bookrunner builds on decades of partnership with the Ethiopian government and Ethiopian Airlines.
“This mandate is more than a transaction. It embodies a Pan-African vision for integration and global economic success,” he said, highlighting the airport’s potential to serve as a continental aviation hub, connect Africa to global markets, and accelerate intra-African trade and investment.
He noted that the project’s location at a lower elevation than the existing hub will enable significant CO₂ emission savings, underscoring the AfDB’s focus on sustainability.
In addition to its mandate role, the bank has earmarked USD 500 million in financing and will provide concessional lending from the African Development Fund, alongside technical assistance for SME development and urban planning.
Ndiaye also drew attention to the project’s upcoming showcase at the African Investment Forum in Rabat, Morocco, from 26 to 28 November 2025, inviting stakeholders to participate in boardroom sessions and engage directly with sponsors and advisors.
Concluding his remarks, Ndiaye called on stakeholders to actively contribute feedback and suggestions, describing the Bishoftu Mega Airport as a legacy project that will redefine Africa’s aviation and economic landscape while generating wide-ranging benefits across the continent.