In the midst of unprecedented political and social reforms, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has a message for Ethiopian diaspora: The country is open for business.
By Salem Solomon (VOA)
WASHINGTON–In the midst of unprecedented political and social reforms, Ethiopia has a message for its diaspora: The country is open for business.
At a dinner Friday (July 27) for the Ethiopian diaspora and business community at the Watergate Hotel in Washington, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted opportunities in Ethiopia and urged the diaspora to come back and invest.
Scholars, entrepreneurs and professionals at the gathering greeted Abiy warmly and embraced his call to contribute to their country.
But some are looking for additional changes, and others have expressed doubts about whether the stability achieved in the past four months will last.
‘Time to get together’
Fitsum Arega, Abiy’s chief of staff, told VOA that differences have held Ethiopia back for too long, and the moment has come for communication that builds understanding. “It’s time for Ethiopians and the diaspora community to get together,” Fitsum said.
“In the last decade and a half, the economy has been growing very fast. But when it comes to inclusiveness, there are people left out, unable to get jobs,” Fitsum added. “And we believe, Prime Minister Abiy believes, this time is an important time in the history of Ethiopia to build on human capital, to build on democracy.”
Since he assumed office in April, Abiy has spearheaded broad reforms that have touched on internal politics, security, regional affairs and business. He’s also brought a message of unity and reconciliation to a country that’s long struggled with conflict along ethnic and political lines. The result, with breathtaking speed, has been a rebranded country that appears more inclusive of its citizens and more hospitable to outside investment.
Abiy’s financial reforms have included moves to privatize state-owned enterprises, including the telecom industry, and initiatives to build public-private partnerships for investors.
He’s also secured $3 billion in financing from the U.A.E., including a $1 billion cash infusion in the country’s central bank.
Read the complete story at VOA