AMN PLUS-August 6, 2026
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has described Bahir Dar as a city with the potential to become a model for Africa in development, prosperity, transformation, and economic growth, citing its rich historical heritage, natural beauty, and growing infrastructure.
Speaking during the inauguration of the new terminal at Bahir Dar Dejazmach Belay Zeleke International Airport, the prime minister said the city is uniquely positioned to become a leading tourism, commercial, and industrial hub.
“Bahir Dar is a city blessed with both history and nature. It is enriched by beauty and steeped in history. For Ethiopians—and beyond us, for Africans—it is a city capable of becoming an example of development, prosperity, transformation, and growth,” Abiy said.
He noted that Bahir Dar’s importance dates back more than a century, when it served as a key commercial crossroads linking central Ethiopia—including Shewa and Wollega—with Gondar and northern parts of the country.
According to the prime minister, evidence of the city’s longstanding commercial significance can be found in the travelers’ lodge at the Saint George compound, which he said was built at least 200 years ago to support trade between Gorgora and Bahir Dar. “This area long served as a major trading center connecting Gorgora with merchants traveling from central Ethiopia to the north,” he said, adding that although the city’s economic potential was not fully realized in previous decades, Ethiopia is now revisiting its history and laying the foundation for a new era of development.
Abiy highlighted recent investments aimed at transforming the Lake Tana tourism corridor, including the development of the Gorgora Resort and the Fellege Giyon project in Bahir Dar. He said the projects have strengthened connectivity between Bahir Dar and Gorgora through expanded boat transport, including the operation of Tana Nesh, one of Ethiopia’s largest passenger vessels.
The prime minister emphasized that the area between Bahir Dar and Gorgora is home to numerous historical and cultural sites, including the islands of Lake Tana, which offer significant opportunities for tourism, historical research, and cultural exploration.
“Anyone wishing to visit these islands, study history, and explore the area can now benefit from improved transportation between Bahir Dar and Gorgora,” he said, adding that government investments, together with a growing number of private-sector projects, are helping position the city as a major tourism destination.
Beyond tourism, Abiy said Bahir Dar has emerged as a city with strong industrial ambitions during the reform period, pointing to the establishment of an industrial park alongside continued infrastructure development.
He also praised Bahir Dar’s urban planning, describing it as one of Ethiopia’s best-planned cities in terms of its interior road network and overall layout.
The prime minister further highlighted the city’s landmark bridge, which he said is unmatched in scale and quality not only in Ethiopia but also across the surrounding region.
Abiy said the ongoing corridor development project will significantly enhance the city’s appearance, strengthen its capacity to host visitors, and expand its role as a center for commerce and economic activity. He added that the completion of the stadium currently under construction is expected to attract visitors from across Ethiopia and Africa. “With its combination of natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming community, Bahir Dar will become a city that visitors leave without regret,” the prime minister said.
By Leta Teresa
