Last week, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed traveled to Hawassa to participate in events marking the 65th anniversary of the establishment of the Special Operations Command of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces on 22nd February 2026 and to review the city’s ongoing corridor development works. During his visit, he toured key infrastructure projects and outlined the significance of the city’s urban transformation and economic trajectory.
Key Points
- The ongoing corridor development works are visibly reshaping Hawassa’s urban landscape, enhancing public spaces, road networks, and overall city aesthetics.
- The improvements demonstrate the city’s strong potential to grow as a tourism destination, leveraging its natural setting and upgraded infrastructure.
- The development initiatives reflect coordinated efforts between federal authorities, the government of Sidama Regional State, and local residents.
- Activities within the Hawassa Special Economic Zone are projected to contribute significantly to export earnings and industrial expansion.
- The Hawassa-Addis Ababa Expressway is expected to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and stimulate trade and investment flows between Hawassa and Addis Ababa.