Addis ababa: Ethiopia has made significant strides in advancing the manufacturing sector in recent years, driven by the government’s reform agendas, Minister of Industry Melaku Alebel said. Ethiopia’s manufacturing sector is flourishing, experiencing significant growth attributed to government reforms, a new investment strategy, and the ‘Made in Ethiopia’ initiative.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, addressing a consultation forum the ministry held with the manufacturing sector and associations today, Melaku stated that the manufacturing sector has been increasing its role in the country’s economic progress, as the reform played a critical role in increasing the engagement of the private sector. The reform endeavors included policy and strategy amendment, infrastructure enhancement, human capital management, and creating a favorable business climate, among others.

The Minister emphasized that the ‘Made in Ethiopia’ movement has been pivotal for the industry sector in general. Following the reform endeavors, the production capacity of the sector and manufacturing have been increasing, boosting the country’s export market. The implementation of the macroeconomic reform has also been instrumental in mobilizing the sector by improving the business climate, he affirmed.

Job creation, capacity building, and integrated activities among pertinent stakeholders have also made notable strides in recent years. Stating that energy is the backbone of the manufacturing sector, he mentioned the historic completion of GERD will play a pivotal role in the country’s industry sector. Despite all the encouraging progress, the Minister stressed enhanced collaboration among stakeholders, emphasizing the critical role of the private sector and associations.

The meeting with the private sector is essential to strengthen collaboration and serves as a vital platform to create a strong private sector and facilitate market accessibility, it was indicated. Ethiopia is implementing a Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, with the target to realize the nation’s sustainable economic growth, primarily focusing on macro stabilization, market liberalization, and private sector growth. It is also targeted to create a conducive environment for private investment, increasing productivity, and stabilizing the financial sector, among others.