Addis Ababa, August 4, 2026 (FMC) — CNN International has turned its spotlight on Ethiopia’s economic transformation, showcasing a side of the country rarely highlighted in global headlines — a nation pursuing ambitious investments in renewable energy, mining, aviation and tourism as it seeks to reshape its economic future.
The international broadcaster’s “Connecting Africa” feature presented Ethiopia’s development trajectory through some of its most ambitious projects and emerging economic sectors, from the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) to the expansion of Ethiopian Airlines and the development of new tourism destinations.
The feature highlighted Ethiopia’s growing economic ambitions as a country of nearly 140 million people with a young population, focusing on efforts to diversify beyond traditional economic activities and create new drivers of growth.
CNN placed the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam at the centre of Ethiopia’s transformation story, describing it as Africa’s largest hydroelectric dam and a major engineering achievement.
The report highlighted the project’s 5,150-megawatt installed capacity and its role in expanding electricity generation, powering millions of homes and supporting regional power connectivity.
The feature also highlighted the domestic financing behind GERD, noting that the project was built through Ethiopian contributions, including public donations, government-issued bonds and government funds.
Beyond energy, CNN showcased Ethiopia’s ambitions to develop its mining sector through the Kurmuk gold project in the Benishangul-Gumuz region.
The report highlighted the ongoing exploration and processing activities at the site, presenting the project as part of Ethiopia’s efforts to unlock its mineral resources and create greater value from its natural wealth.
The broadcaster also highlighted Ethiopia’s aviation ambitions, focusing on Ethiopian Airlines’ continental and global connectivity and the planned Bishoftu International Airport.
CNN reported that the new airport is expected to accommodate up to 110 million passengers annually and nearly four million tonnes of cargo capacity, positioning it as a major infrastructure project supporting trade, tourism and regional connectivity.
The feature further explored Ethiopia’s tourism potential through the Bale Mountains National Park, highlighting its UNESCO World Heritage status, unique ecosystems and rich biodiversity.
It also showcased Ethiopia’s efforts to develop tourism infrastructure and attract more visitors to its natural and cultural destinations.
Through “Connecting Africa,” CNN presented Ethiopia’s economic transformation as a story of ambitious investments and strategic sectors aimed at reshaping the country’s future, highlighting how major projects in energy, resources, aviation and tourism are becoming central to its development ambitions.