Ethiopia and AfDB strengthen partnership on economic reforms and development priorities

Addis Ababa, April 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia and the African Development Bank have reaffirmed their strategic partnership during talks held on the sidelines of the 2026 Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group and the IMF, with both sides agreeing to deepen cooperation across key development sectors.

Finance Minister Ahmed Shide met with African Development Bank President Sidi Ould Tah, where discussions focused on advancing collaboration in support of Ethiopia’s economic reform program and long-term development priorities.

During the meeting, the minister pointed to progress in implementing reforms despite global economic challenges, reaffirming the government’s focus on maintaining macroeconomic stability, promoting private sector-led growth, and advancing structural transformation.

The African Development Bank side acknowledged Ethiopia’s reform efforts and emphasized continued support for the country’s development agenda.

Both sides identified priority areas for expanded cooperation, including energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and climate resilience, seen as critical to sustaining inclusive growth and job creation.

The talks also explored opportunities to scale up financing and technical support, particularly in investments aimed at mobilizing private capital, strengthening regional connectivity, and supporting green and digital transitions.

The two sides reiterated their commitment to further strengthening the partnership to support sustainable development and economic transformation.