Addis Ababa, February 2, 2026 (FMC) — January 2026 was marked by significant advancements in infrastructure, energy, national security and diplomatic engagements, the Office of the Prime Minister reported.
Reviewing last month’s milestones in Ethiopia, the PM Office stated that the month saw progress across strategic projects, rural development, institutional reforms, and international relations, underscoring Ethiopia’s trajectory toward modernization and long-term growth.
Infrastructure development was at the forefront of the Prime Minister’s agenda.
The Tulu Arara Integrated Model Village was inaugurated, providing dignified housing and sustainable livelihoods for 150 households through modern infrastructure, renewable energy, and integrated agricultural value chains, according to the Office of the Prime Minister.
The groundbreaking of Bishoftu International Airport, projected to be Africa’s largest aviation hub with an initial capacity of 60 million passengers and plans to expand to 110 million, was another landmark event. The airport will be connected via a modern highway and high-speed rail link.
The Office of the Prime Minister noted that Ethiopian Airlines’ resilience, safety culture, and institutional strength remain pillars of national pride.
Strategic economic reforms also advanced. The Prime Minister presided over the Finance Forward Ethiopia Conference, reviewing fiscal management, financial-sector reform, capital market development, and public enterprise reforms.
The Office of the Prime Minister emphasized that institution-building remains central to Ethiopia’s long-term development agenda. Reflecting people-centered governance, the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers extended holiday support to low-income staff and orphans under the Office of the Prime Minister.
Security milestones were highlighted through the Prime Minister’s participation in Aviation Expo 2026 and the “Black Lion” air show marking the 90th anniversary of the Ethiopian Air Force.
The events showcased the Air Force’s historic role and current operational capability supported by advanced technology. Earlier in the month, he conducted an on-site inspection of the Air Force, reviewing readiness and reaffirming Ethiopia’s deterrence capacity, the Office of the Prime Minister said.
In energy and tourism, Ethiopia made significant strides. The Aysha-II Wind Power Project was inaugurated, diversifying the renewable energy portfolio and reinforcing reliable power as a foundation for a technology-driven economy.
The Denbi Eco Lodge officially opened under the Dine for Generations initiative, promoting sustainable and conservation-based tourism. This was followed by the launch of Shabeely Resort, a 385-hectare destination featuring cultural venues, hospitality facilities, parks, and community spaces.
The Office of the Prime Minister noted that these projects highlight Ethiopia’s natural and cultural heritage and strengthen the country’s position as a leading African tourism destination.
Rural development and education also progressed during January. The Prime Minister reviewed integrated rural projects in Guraferda Woreda and, together with the First Lady, inaugurated a new boarding school in Surma Woreda, providing comprehensive educational facilities for underserved communities.
He assessed digitized service delivery at the Immigration and Citizenship Services and reviewed logistics readiness at the Ethio–Djibouti Railway Corporation, including rail construction, dry ports, highways, and warehousing, according to the Office of the Prime Minister.
Diplomatic and regional engagement intensified in January. The Prime Minister received the Presidents of Djibouti and Somalia at Jigjiga Airport, reaffirming Ethiopia’s commitment to regional cooperation and stability.
He also held high-level meetings with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and senior officials from the United States. Additionally, the Prime Minister met with the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Rt. Hon. Yvette Cooper, signing a Memorandum of Understanding on public investment and asset management, and agreements for two major power transmission projects — Hurso–Aysha 400 kV and Degehbur–Kebridehar 132 kV — advancing strategic infrastructure cooperation, the Office of the Prime Minister said.
The Office of the Prime Minister concluded that January 2026 was defined by accelerated infrastructure projects, expanded renewable energy capacity, strengthened national defense, and active regional and international diplomacy, reinforcing Ethiopia’s path toward modernization, resilience, and long-term development.