Ethiopia has unveiled a package of multi-billion-dollar energy and industrial projects worth $10bn, marking a decisive step in its drive for energy independence and rapid industrialisation. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed led the announcements on October 2, as the country seeks to strengthen its economy and secure long-term growth.
At the heart of the programme is the Ogaden Liquefied Natural Gas Project in Calub, Somali Region. Inaugurating its first phase, Ahmed revealed the facility will produce 111 million litres of gas annually and generate 1,000 megawatts of electricity. He also laid the foundation stone for the project’s second phase, which is expected to expand output to 1.3bn litres a year.
Another landmark initiative is a $2.5bn fertiliser plant being developed in partnership with Nigeria’s Dangote Group, owned by billionaire Aliko Dangote. Under the agreement, Ethiopia will hold 40 percent while Dangote takes 60 percent. When completed, the plant will produce three million tonnes of fertiliser annually, a boost for domestic agriculture and a step towards cutting import dependence.
In addition, the government has partnered with a Chinese company to build the Gode Oil Refinery, a $2.5bn facility designed to process 70,000 barrels of crude oil daily, sourced from Ethiopia’s Hilala oil field. Officials say initial phases of both the refinery and fertiliser projects are expected within 24 months.
Speaking at the launch, Ahmed stressed that the projects form part of a broader industrialisation push. “These projects will help Ethiopia move towards self-reliance in energy, fertiliser and food security, while elevating our presence on the global stage in a way that honours the true spirit of Ethiopian identity,” he said.
The rollout follows last month’s commissioning of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, Africa’s largest hydropower project with a 5,000MW capacity. Together, these ventures signal Ethiopia’s determination to harness its natural resources, unlock industrial competitiveness, and build a sustainable foundation for long-term growth.
