By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo
“Ethiopia, often called the "Land of Origins," has a rich cultural heritage and history that has rapidly transformed into one of Africa's most dynamic economies. With a population of over 126 million, Ethiopia represents a vibrant and youthful market full of potential for investors looking to capitalize on emerging opportunities,” said Ambassador of Ethiopia to Korea Dessie Dalkie Dukamo.
Delivering welcoming speech at the Ethiopia Investment Promotion Forum hosted by the Ethiopian Embassy in Seoul on Feb. 25, Amb. Dukamo said, “Ethiopia's economy has been one of the fastest-growing in the world over the past decade, with an average annual GDP growth rate of nearly 10%. This expansion is fueled by a clear vision encapsulated in the Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, which seeks to transform Ethiopia into a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable economy.”
Noting that the government of Ethiopia has undertaken significant reforms to create a business-friendly environment, ensuring investors can access a stable, transparent, and predictable regulatory framework, the ambassador said, “Now is good and favorable time for Korean investors to make investment in Ethiopia.”
Commenting that key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, energy, tourism, ICT, and infrastructure development are ripe for investment, offering high returns and the chance to contribute to the country’s sustainable development goals, Amb. Dukamo said, “The Ethiopian government has also made a significant shift by opening the finance sector to foreign investors.”
He continued to say, “Ethiopia’s strategic location as a gateway to Africa and its membership in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) provides unparalleled access to a market of over 1.3 billion people. The country's state-of-the-art infrastructure, including the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport—the largest aviation hub in Africa—and the newly built Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, further enhances its connectivity and accessibility. Additionally, the country’s commitment to green energy and climate-resilient development makes it an ideal partner for investors looking to align with global sustainability trends.”
Stressing that Ethiopia is not just a country with potential but a nation on the move, he said, “Investing in Ethiopia is tapping into a growing market and contributing to the sustainable development of one of Africa's most promising economies. Together, we can build a future that benefits us all.”
Amb. Dukamo added, “Today’s forum is designed to provide you with firsthand insights into the investment landscape in Ethiopia. I hope this event will inform and inspire you to consider Ethiopia as your next investment destination.”
More than 300 guests, including business people, religious leaders and prominent figures from cultural field, attended the Ethiopia investment promotion forum held at the international conference room of Korea Federation of Banks in Myeong-dong, downtown Seoul.
