Addis Ababa, June 9, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia is building competitive cities, modernizing public services, and laying the foundation for a knowledge-driven future through its ongoing national development initiatives, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said.
The Deputy Prime Minister made the remarks while inaugurating a series of completed development projects in Woldia City, Amhara Region, where he described the projects as tangible evidence of Ethiopia’s continued transformation and steady march toward growth and prosperity despite prevailing challenges.
Temesgen said the newly inaugurated projects reflect the country’s development trajectory and demonstrate that no force can derail Ethiopia’s pursuit of growth, prosperity, and modernization.
He commended the people of Woldia for their commitment to peace and stability, describing them as a community that consistently rejects extremism and division in favor of unity, development, and strong state institutions.
The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that the government’s struggle extends beyond confronting armed groups in specific areas, saying it is part of a broader effort against forces that seek to perpetuate division, poverty, and stagnation.
According to Temesgen, those holding on to outdated mindsets have failed to recognize the scale and pace of Ethiopia’s ongoing transformation. He added that insurgents operating in remote areas are unable to witness the sweeping changes taking place across the country, citing flagship national initiatives such as the Corridor Development Program, the Lemat Trufat (Bounty of the Basket) agricultural initiative, the Dine for Ethiopia projects, and the country’s wheat production drive.
He emphasized that the Corridor Development Program extends far beyond urban beautification, describing it as a strategic initiative aimed at modernizing cities, improving living standards, and enhancing economic competitiveness. Ethiopian cities, he added, should aspire to compete with leading urban centers across East Africa and beyond.
Temesgen also highlighted the nationwide expansion of the Mesob One-Stop Service initiative, noting that it is modernizing public service delivery by improving efficiency and accessibility.
Referring to the newly established public library, digital library, and science cafés in Woldia, he said the facilities will help nurture a knowledge-driven generation by promoting research, innovation, and critical thinking.
He further noted that the newly constructed market centers and commercial facilities will strengthen local economic activity and create greater opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Underscoring the importance of food security, the Deputy Prime Minister called for the further expansion of the Lemat Trufat (Bounty of the Basket) initiative to accelerate Ethiopia’s drive toward sustainable food self-sufficiency.
Reaffirming the country’s commitment to development, Temesgen said Ethiopia will continue “shedding its debts and embracing its hopes,” stressing that no coalition of adversaries can obstruct the nation’s progress.
He also called on government institutions, investors, and the public to work in close partnership to expand ongoing development initiatives and extend their benefits to rural communities, thereby accelerating Ethiopia’s journey toward inclusive growth and lasting prosperity.