Private Investment Takes Flight in Aviation Industry

May 25 , 2024


[ssba-buttons]

Local private operators received the green light last week to expand their services beyond charter flights, offering regular passenger and cargo options. This move by the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority is expected to boost the air transport sector, attracting private companies to invest in air travel services. The Authority is partnering with private investors to improve air transport infrastructure by building over 21 new airstrips and helipads in previously underserved areas. Officials believe this expansion is expected to strengthen economic ties and facilitate trade across the country, with a particular focus on increasing accessibility to tourist destinations. This initiative coincides with the launch of a separate project aimed at enhancing passenger experience at Bole International Airport. Partnering with the Ethiopian Civil Service Commission, the project focuses on streamlining processes to reduce passenger wait times. It follows an initial needs assessment conducted in April.


Radar

Construction Sector Faces 'Serious Trouble,' Minister Warns

The construction industry in Ethiopia is in "serious trouble," said Chaltu Sani, Minister of Urban & Infrastructure Development, citing major challenges with finance, competitiveness and material costs. Speaking at the opening of the BIG 5 Construct Ethiopia expo and the inaugural East African Infrastructure & Water Expo at Millennium Hall last week, Chaltu stressed the need for concerted efforts from government, private sector, and international partners to support the 67 billion dol...


Radar

Wegagen Bank, Gift Real Estate Partner to Promote Diaspora Homeownership

Wegagen Bank S.C. and Gift Real Estate Plc. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on June 23, to offer housing loans for homebuyers, with a special focus on the Ethiopian diaspora. The agreement enables eligible diaspora members to access loans covering up to 80pc of a home's value at reasonable interest rates. The bank's Deputy CEO Kidane Gebreselassie noted the deal will promote the real estate sector and expand homeownership options. Founder and CEO of Gift Real Estate, Gebreyesus Igata...


Radar

Jimma University Signs Sports Science Agreement to Strengthen National Programmes

Jimma University has signed a four-party Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ethiopian Academy of Sciences, Derartu Tulu Sports Training & Research Institute, and the Oromia Youth & Sport Bureau to advance Ethiopia's sports science and training capacity. Signed on June 26, the agreement includes joint research, shared facilities, and hosting of national and international competitions. It is expected to strengthen youth development, public health, and national pride through coor...