Ethiopia Strengthens Strategic Partnership with U.S. DFC on New Airport Project

Addis Ababa, October 17, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia has strengthened its strategic partnership with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to advance key infrastructure investments, including a proposed new international airport, according to a statement from the Ministry of Finance.

The partnership was discussed during a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings, led by Finance Minister Ahmed Shide and senior DFC officials. The talks focused on financing and structuring the airport project, which is expected to expand passenger and cargo capacity, ease congestion at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, and serve as a logistics hub for the Horn of Africa.

DFC expressed strong interest in supporting the project through potential financing, investment guarantees, and partnerships with U.S. private sector firms in airport development, supply, engineering, and construction.

The Ministry of Finance highlighted the importance of DFC’s engagement in Ethiopia’s transport infrastructure, particularly in the aviation sector, noting its critical role in national development and regional competitiveness. The Ministry described the meeting as an important step in building strong partnerships that deliver long-term benefits for the people and the economy.

Both parties agreed to continue discussions to develop a viable financing structure for the new international airport. The meeting also underscored a shared vision of a robust partnership, with discussions covering ongoing and future projects and a mutual interest in scaling up investments that deliver measurable community and economic benefits.

The engagement builds on DFC’s broader strategy in Africa, which focuses on strengthening partnerships with key governments to catalyze high-impact investments, unlock private capital, and expand access to critical infrastructure and essential services.