Ethiopia’s Bishoftu Airport Project Draws Strong U.S. and Financial Sector Support

Addis Ababa, April 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia has secured strong backing from U.S. government agencies, leading financial institutions, and major industry players for the Bishoftu International Airport project following a financing roadshow held in Washington, D.C., marking a key step toward the implementation of one of Africa’s largest aviation infrastructure developments.

Senior U.S. officials expressed confidence in Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reform agenda, highlighting progress toward a more open, private sector–led economy, alongside solid macroeconomic performance and positive growth prospects.

The Bishoftu International Airport project was presented as a high-impact, bankable investment expected to transform regional connectivity, facilitate trade flows, and strengthen Ethiopia’s position as a global aviation and logistics hub, while enhancing Africa’s integration into international networks.

The project was also described as a framework for strengthened Ethiopia–U.S. commercial engagement, with potential benefits for both sides through expanded investment opportunities and broader economic cooperation.

Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide described the project as a national priority with wider regional and global significance, noting its expected role in enhancing trade, investment, and connectivity across Africa and beyond. He said the level of engagement in Washington reflects confidence in Ethiopia’s economic outlook.

Anchored by Ethiopian Airlines, the project is supported by growing passenger and cargo demand. The airline reaffirmed its partnerships with U.S. institutions, noting that the project will help respond to increasing global aviation demand and further reinforce Ethiopia’s position as a key aviation hub.

Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew said the collaboration with international partners has been central to the airline’s global operations, adding that the project builds on existing partnerships to strengthen Addis Ababa’s role in global air connectivity.

Vice President for Finance at the African Development Bank Hassatou N’Sele, the mandated lead arranger for the project, described it as a bankable and high-impact initiative with strong fundamentals, noting its potential to support regional integration, competitiveness, and sustainable growth across Africa.

Discussions in Washington reportedly advanced financing structures and implementation pathways, with stakeholders contributing practical inputs aimed at accelerating progress toward project execution.

The strong backing from U.S. institutions, private sector participants, and development partners was described as a key milestone in advancing the project toward realization.