During a training session for Prosperity Party leaders on the Synergy State Philosophy, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed(PhD) emphasized that once Ethiopia begins to properly utilize its mineral resources, the country will become a prosperous nation.
The Prime Minister explained that if Ethiopia starts extracting natural gas for transport and launches production in fertilizer, glass, energy, and other industries, this vision of national prosperity will be fully attainable.
In his closing remarks to senior Prosperity Party leaders, the Prime Minister elaborated on Ethiopia’s rich mineral potential and outlined strategic approaches for harnessing these resources. The Prime Minister noted that Ethiopia possesses valuable and largely untapped mineral deposits.
Minerals, he stressed, are the wealth of the people, while the responsibility to manage them effectively lies with the government.
“Minerals are limited and non-renewable. Without a proper plan for their extraction and use, we could easily lose them,” Abiy said.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed that with careful planning and effective utilization, mineral resources can become a transformative source of wealth for society.
Prime Minister Abiy highlighted Ethiopia’s progress, noting that the country earned 28 million dollars from gold exports in 2012 and 3 billion dollars last year a clear indication of the rapid growth in production capacity within a relatively short time.
The Prime Minister added that achieving planned production in gas, fertilizer, glass, and energy would further strengthen the nation’s prosperity and significantly ease foreign currency shortages. Abiy also underscored the need for the mining sector to be guided by strategic planning and professional expertise.
Finally, the Prime Minister urged regional governments and the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum to take care of when issuing licenses to investors, ensuring that only capable and responsible entities are granted access to the country’s mineral resources.
By Birhanu Workneh
