The Ministry of Urban Development and Infrastructure has signed an agreement with several federal institutions to launch a major project targeting rural connectivity and food security. At the signing ceremony, State Minister Yetmegeta Asrat represented the Ministry alongside officials from the Federal Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, the Federal Public Procurement and Property Authority, the Environmental Protection Authority, and Helvetas Ethiopia. A separate agreement was also signed with the Ethiopian Roads Administration, the Ethiopian Construction Authority, and the Construction Management Institute. Yetmegeta said the project is part of the government’s 10-year plan to improve rural living conditions by linking Kebeles to main roads. The programme will be implemented equitably across 12 regions, including Dire Dawa, with a focus on areas with strong agricultural potential and underserved lowland zones. Plans include constructing or upgrading over 7,500 km of roads, repairing 10,071 km, and building more than 10,000 lowland bridges. Incomplete road projects from previous years will also be finalised. The project will involve local contractors and generate employment, with a strong emphasis on quality and long-term sustainability. All stakeholders pledged to use the funds responsibly and deliver lasting results.