Addis Ababa, February 14, 2026 (FMC) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the strategic role of Ethiopian Airlines as a key driver of Ethiopia’s economic growth, continental connectivity, and regional integration during the opening of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in Addis Ababa.
The Prime Minister outlined Ethiopia’s broader national transformation agenda, presenting the country’s development trajectory, infrastructure expansion, and governance reforms as part of a long-term strategy to build a productive, resilient, and globally competitive economy.
Abiy highlighted that Ethiopia is projecting economic growth of 10.2 percent by the end of the year and is implementing a 25-year national vision aimed at strengthening manufacturing, expanding industrial capacity, and reducing dependency through domestic production and food self-sufficiency. He said targeted policies and large-scale investments are enabling the country to move from consumption-led growth to production-based development.
Human development was identified as a central pillar of Ethiopia’s agenda. The Prime Minister said sustained investments in maternal and child health, early childhood education, and school feeding programs are designed to prepare the country’s growing population for productive participation in the economy. He described Ethiopia’s people as its greatest national asset and stressed that long-term growth must be inclusive and people-centered.
Urban and rural transformation efforts were also highlighted. Abiy pointed to ongoing initiatives to modernize rural livelihoods, connect farmers to markets, and enhance productivity, while redesigning urban centers to be greener, more resilient, and human-centered. In Addis Ababa, large-scale riverside renewal projects have restored degraded waterways, reduced flood risks, and created public spaces aimed at improving quality of life.
On infrastructure and connectivity, the Prime Minister cited Ethiopian Airlines as a strategic national asset linking Ethiopia to Africa and the global economy, alongside ongoing investments in aviation infrastructure, including a next-generation airport. He also referenced the expansion of Ethio Telecom, describing telecommunications as a critical driver of economic integration and digital inclusion.
Abiy further emphasized Ethiopia’s focus on digital transformation, including the rollout of national digital public infrastructure and investments in emerging technologies. He said technology is being positioned as a tool to improve governance, service delivery, and economic efficiency.
Addressing Ethiopia’s long-term economic sustainability, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of reliable access to regional and global markets, noting that peaceful cooperation and regional stability remain essential for sustained national growth.
Abiy concluded that Ethiopia’s development path is guided by an integrated approach that links economic growth, human development, infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and technological innovation, positioning the country to contribute meaningfully to regional stability and continental progress.