AMN Plus-July 1, 2026
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has announced that several modern shopping malls are currently under construction in Addis Ababa as part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen Ethiopia’s tourism industry and enhance the range of services available to visitors.
According to the Prime Minister, three to four of these malls are expected to be completed and begin operations next year.
Speaking in an exclusive interview on Ethiopia’s tourism sector, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that tourism becomes a genuine engine of economic growth only when it creates vibrant commercial activity that benefits businesses, investors, and local communities.
He explained that successful tourist destinations must offer visitors far more than historical sites and scenic attractions. A thriving tourism ecosystem, he said, should include quality restaurants, cafés, coffee shops, handicraft markets, clothing stores, souvenir outlets, entertainment facilities, and other retail services that encourage tourists to spend more time and money at their destinations.
He noted that expanding modern shopping and retail infrastructure is therefore an essential component of Ethiopia’s tourism development strategy. In this regard, Addis Ababa is witnessing the construction of numerous large-scale shopping malls, with three to four expected to open their doors and begin serving customers in the coming year.
Prime Minister Abiy further stated that the malls currently under construction are being developed to internationally competitive standards, incorporating modern architectural designs and world-class facilities. Once completed, he said, they will significantly transform Ethiopia’s retail landscape, positioning the country among Africa’s leading destinations for high-quality shopping mall infrastructure.
Beyond Addis Ababa, the Prime Minister revealed that major tourism destination projects are progressing across various regions of Ethiopia. These initiatives, he said, are designed to diversify the country’s tourism offerings, attract greater numbers of international and domestic visitors, and unlock new economic opportunities.
Highlighting the sector’s continued progress, Prime Minister Abiy noted that Ethiopia’s tourism industry is steadily gaining momentum. He attributed this achievement to the collective efforts of citizens, private sector investors, development partners, and professionals who have contributed their financial resources, expertise, innovation, and commitment to advancing the country’s tourism potential.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed that Ethiopia remains committed to building a modern, competitive, and sustainable tourism industry capable of driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities, increasing foreign exchange earnings, and showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage, history, and natural attractions to the world.
By Birhanu Workneh
