The ‘Invest in Ethiopia – High-Level Business Forum 2025,’ is taking place from May 12–13 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This flagship forum brings together global investors, top government officials, business leaders, and development partners to engage in high-level dialogue and accelerate investment and sustainable growth.
Telecom Review Africa is proud to participate in this milestone event, with Tewodros Balcha, our Ethiopia representative, attending in person to provide exclusive coverage, interviews, and strategic insights.
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The forum was officially opened by H.E. President Taye Atske-Selassie, the Guest of Honor, alongside a line-up of Ethiopia’s ministerial cabinet, underscoring the government’s unified commitment to creating a world-class investment climate. “This forum is a landmark event, offering a crucial opportunity to fully appreciate Ethiopia’s significant investment potential and to cultivate robust partnerships that will drive innovation and mutual prosperity,” stated the President.
Following the opening remarks by the Ethiopian Investment Commission Commissioner, Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO of Safaricom Ethiopia, delivered the inaugural keynote address. He highlighted Safaricom Ethiopia’s significant investment of USD 2.5 billion over the past two years, hailing it as the largest foreign direct investment (FDI) in Ethiopia to date.
“Ethiopia has been a proud, culturally independent nation for more than 3,000 years,” said Vanhelleputte. Based on his personal experience, Vanhelleputte noted that “Ethiopia ranks among the top three in terms of ease of doing business.”
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Jointly organized by the Ethiopian Investment Commission, Ministry of Finance, and the Development Partners Group, the event follows Ethiopia’s 8.1% GDP growth in 2024 and significant economic liberalization. Key sectors, including telecommunications, digital services, finance, logistics, and trade, are now encouraging private and foreign investment.
Finance Minister, Ahmed Shide, reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to a dynamic, open economy, citing reforms since 2018 that have led to steady growth, increased exports, and over USD 10 billion in investment opportunities. He highlighted incentives such as tax holidays and streamlined processes to attract investors, while addressing challenges through ongoing dialogues and policy improvements.
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Foreign Affairs Minister, Dr. Gedion Timothewos, underscored Ethiopia’s strategic advantages, including its location, talent pool, and access to affordable energy.
Ethiopia’s Investment Deal Book was also officially launched, featuring a curated portfolio of 31 investment-ready projects worth over USD 13.38 billion across key sectors.
Overall, attendees at the forum will continue to explore regional integration opportunities via the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), positioning Ethiopia as a premier hub for investment across Africa.
