Ethiopia’s

Construction
Industry:
Transforming
a Nation

A MARKET INSIGHTS REPORT BY

ITE BUILD & INTERIORS
 Contents
Section 1 – Introduction to Ethiopia....................................... 3
Section 1.1 – Population.......................................... 4
Section 1.2 – Economy & GDP.................................. 6
Section 1.3 – Sources of Growth.............................. 8
Section 1.4 – Foreign Direct Investment.................. 10
Section 1.5 – Imports............................................... 12

Section 2 – Ethiopia’s construction industry by sector........... 13

Section 2.1 – Construction Industry Overview.......... 14
Section 2.2 – Infrastructure Construction................ 16
Section 2.3 – Residential Construction.................... 18
Section 2.4 – Industrial Construction...................... 20
Section 2.5 – Other Construction Activities............. 21

Section 3 – Building Materials Statistics & Opportunities...... 22

Section 3.1 – Overview & Import Stats..................... 23

Section 4 – Major Projects..................................................... 25

Section 4.1 – Condominium Construction................ 26
Section 4.2 – Modjo-Hawassa Expressway.............. 28
Section 4.3 – Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam..... 29

Section 5 – Doing Business in Ethiopia.................................. 30

Section 5.1 – Doing Business................................... 31
Section 5.2 – Key Business Stats............................. 32

Section 6 – Challenges & Opportunities................................. 34

Section 6.1 – Opportunities..................................... 34
Section 6.2 – Challenges......................................... 34

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Section 1 –
Introduction to Ethiopia

Ethiopia is one of Africa’s fastest growing, most vibrant economies. Enjoying double digit GDP growth
year-on-year for the past decade, and with a quickly growing population, the nation is ready to become
a regional leader in construction.

Indeed, the construction industry is a major economic Billions of dollars is being invested in the
growth driver for Ethiopia. Massive government construction industry each year, and foreign firms
investment in infrastructure and residential building are seeing their products, knowledge and expertise
projects is turning the country into one of the enjoy high demand. In this report, we examine Africa’s
continent’s highest performing economies. most exciting economy, the construction industry as
Rapid urbanisation rates have created a huge a whole, and the manifold opportunities available for
need for improved infrastructure systems and a international companies to grasp.
big housing backlog. Demand for quality building
materials, for which Ethiopia is heavily dependent
on imports, is already on the rise and is expected to ITEBeauty
skyrocket in the near future.

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INTRODUCTION TO ETHIOPIA

Section 1.1 – Population

Population stats Total Population 99,465,819
as of April 2016 World Population Rank 14th
Predicted Population Growth 2.48% per year
(2016 figures)
Median Age 17.7 years old
Urban Population 19.5%

The UN’s 2015 revised World Population Prospects When compared with the largest economies in Africa,
report predicts that Ethiopia will be home to over including North and Sub-Saharan regions, Ethiopia’s
138 million people by 2030. Currently, Ethiopia is comparative population growth looks like this:
the second most populated country in Africa behind
Nigeria.6

Ethiopia Population Country Population 2015 Population 2030 Population 2050

Growth 2015-2050
Algeria 39,667,000 48,274,000 56,641,000
(UN World Prospects
Report, 2015) 7 Egypt 91,508,000 117,102,000 151,111,000
Ethiopia 99,391,000 138,297,000 188,455,000
Morocco 34,378,000 39,787,000 43,696,000
Nigeria 182,202,000 262,599,000 398,508,000
South Africa 54,490,000 60,034,000 65,540,000

Ethiopia’s population is characterised by having When broken down into percentages, we can see the
an extremely young average age. According to the following divisions in age amongst the population of
CIA World Factbook, the median age of the African Ethiopia: 8
state’s population is just over 17 years old. A young,
eager population often points to an increased labour 55-64 65+
3.88% 2.88%
pool, which has a positive effect for the construction
industry.
0-14
25-54 43.94%
29.31%

15-24
19.98%
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INTRODUCTION TO ETHIOPIA Population

As the nation, which has been praised by the millionaires skyrocketed. During this period, New
International Monetary Fund (IMF) as one of the World Wealth stated that the number of millionaires
fastest growing economies in the world9, has enjoyed reached 2,700 – an increase of 108%, which was the
consistent GDP growth, the middle and upper classes fastest growth rate in this area across the continent.12
are set to expand.
According to AfrAsia Bank, Ethiopia’s capital Addis
Employment levels play a key role in this expansion. Ababa is home to 700 millionaires and is included in
Compared with other nations with similar economies, the bank’s list of top African cities for millionaires.
Ethiopia’s unemployment rates are low10 and have
In April 2011, the African Development Bank
dropped consistently since 201011. As such, middle
suggested that 8.2% of Ethiopians were members
and upper income levels are likely to increase.
of the middle class (excluding the “floating” class of
For example, New World Wealth, a South African- people who could slide back into lower class status
based market research consultancy, found that more easily than other consumer class members).14
between 2007 and 2013, the level of Ethiopian dollar

According to the CIA World Factbook, 19.5% of Ethiopia’s population live in urban areas. 15 Addis Ababa is the only
city with a population of over a million inhabitants. Ethiopia’s top ten cities by population are:16

Urban population levels in Ethiopia have been growing steadily

in recent years. The CIA World Factbook states that, between
Gonder 2010 and 2015, Ethiopia’s urban population has shown an
323,900 Mek’ele average annual growth rate of 4.89 %. 22 million people
323,700
could live in urban areas by 2020.17 This is likely to result in
an increased demand for affordable housing and, if middle to
Bahir Dar upper income levels increase, more expensive options.
243,300 Dese
187,900

Dire Dawa
Addis Ababa 277,000
3,273,000

Jima
Nazret
177,900 Awasa
324,000
300,100

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INTRODUCTION TO ETHIOPIA

Section 1.2 – Economy & GDP

Ethiopian key GDP GDP Nominal – $63.022 billion (2015 est.)18
stats as of April 2016 GDP PPP - $159.2 billion (2015 est.)19
GDP Nominal Rank – 8020
GDP PPP Rank – 6921
GDP per capita - $55022

While Ethiopia is amongst the poorest nations According to KPMG, between 2008 and 2013, the
on Earth, at least in terms of GDP per capita, the country experienced an average annual growth rate of
economic forecasts are strong. For example, the IMF 10.2% showing impressive financial stability.25
ranks the nation as amongst its five fastest growing
A 2015 estimate of Ethiopia’s GDP stood at $63.022
economies in the world. 23
billion, which is likely to increase alongside the
Ethiopia has experienced solid economic performance nation’s rapid GDP rates. GDP based on purchasing
over the past decade. The World Bank predicts that power parity (PPP) has also increased to nearly $160
the 2015/16 fiscal year will see the Ethiopian economy billion as of 2016. The table below shows Ethiopia’s
grow by 10.5% after years of similar results.24 GDP and increases over the last two years, with an
IMF prediction for 2016’s total levels.

GDP growth in GDP Descriptor 2014 2015 2016 (IMF estimate)

Ethiopia 2014-2016
GDP - Actual $54,809,000,000 $63,022,000,000 $70,171,000,000
(IMF)26
GDP – PPP $145,100,000,000 $159,224,000,000 $174,610,000,000

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INTRODUCTION TO ETHIOPIA Economy & GDP

Morocco
$103,100,000,000

Egypt
$291,538,000,000
Algeria
$175,100,000,000
Sudan
$84,300,000,000

Ethiopia
$63,022,000,000

Nigeria
$545,000,000,000
Kenya
$63,100,000,000

Tanzania
$46,200,000,000

Angola
Africa’s Top Ten
$102,000,000,000 Economies (IMF via
Knoema)27
South Africa Country
$317,290,000,000 GDP (nominal)

According to the African Economic Sector 2015

Outlook 2015 edition, Ethiopia’s GDP
Agriculture, forestry, fishing & hunting 42.3%
by sector is as follows:
Mining & quarrying 1%
Manufacturing 4.2%
Electricity, gas and water 0.8%
Construction 9.4%
Wholesale & retail trade; repair of vehicles,
household goods; restaurants & hotels 18.7%
Transport, storage & communication 4.7%
Finance, real estate & business services 9%
Ethiopia GDP by Sector
Public administration & defence 4.1%
(African Economic
Outlook, 2015)28 Other services 5.7%

In the next section, we look at the economic factors that are driving Ethiopia’s double-digit growth. The nation
is still firmly agrarian, but with increases in urbanisation and income levels, it is likely that the construction
industry’s share of Ethiopia’s GDP will increase in the coming years.

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INTRODUCTION TO ETHIOPIA

Section 1.3 – Sources of Growth

Deloitte has called Ethiopia a “growth miracle”29, due to the fact the country has enjoyed double digit growth for
several years. So what is driving the nation’s economy? Various financial institutions and development bodies
have identified several factors powering Ethiopian growth.
These factors form a crucial part of Ethiopia’s goal of reaching middle-income status by 2025 - something the
World Bank believes is possible.30

Development & investment in infrastructure

Investment in infrastructure is a prime driver of GDP With a projected need for $1.5 billion investment a
growth, as seen in the world’s foremost emerging year in infrastructure, the country has made massive
economies, such as Indonesia and India. Ethiopia steps towards boosting power supply, housing
is matching these countries by pouring money into stock and transport networks. This in turn has
infrastructure developments. According to Deloitte, led to improved urban and construction jobs and
Ethiopia has one of the highest levels of investment, opportunities, which has had a positive effect on GDP
relative to GDP, in the world.31 growth.

Foreign Direct Investment

We will discuss FDI in its own section later on in this According to the United Nations Conference on
report, but it is important to note that FDI is one Trade & Development (UNCTAD), inflows reached
of the key drivers of Ethiopian economic growth. A $953 million in 2014, up from $279 million in
variety of different countries, including China, Turkey 2013. Total FDI inward stocks of $6.1 billion were
and India, have pumped huge sums into Ethiopia in observed in 2013 – a massive increase on 2012’s
recent years.32 levels of $941 million.33

Economic policy changes & plans

Despite previous political instability in the country, For example, the Ethiopian government plans
resulting in the harmful economic policies and on implementing numerous five-year initiatives,
famines of the 1980s, Ethiopia has achieved stability the first of which ran from 2010-2015, known as
over the past two decades. With this has come a Growth and Transformation Plans. Featured in
variety of policy measures that have had positive these plans are numerous schemes to stimulate
economic growth effects. economic development including opening Ethiopia to
international investment, bilateral trade agreements
and so on.34

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INTRODUCTION TO ETHIOPIA Sources of Growth

Sustainable economic development initiatives

Alongside various international bodies, Ethiopia These initiatives include an enhanced economic
has created several economic projects designed growth project, strengthening industrial development
to boost and sustain economic development. The and creating a thriving private sector. USAID is
United Nations Development Programme is working another foreign organisations committed to working
alongside the country to create a strong, sustainable alongside Ethiopia in these areas.36 So far, these
economic environment.35 measures have fed into the double-digit growth rates
that Ethiopia has enjoyed in recent years.

Other recommendations

While the above factors are all important for in the bottom ten countries for private investment.
encouraging and sustaining strong growth in the A strong, vibrant private sector is required for
Ethiopian economy, the World Bank has identified sustainable high growth according to the World Bank.
several areas that require expansion to further
Improving trade logistics – An average of 42 days
strengthen the nation’s economic development:
is required to import a container to Addis Ababa,
Boost saving rates – Ethiopia’s saving rates are low, compared with a regional average of 37 days.
but increasing these is predicted to feed into higher However, internal infrastructure developments,
investment levels and greater economic growth. such as rail and road building, will have a positive
impact on domestic trade. The World Bank suggests
Increase private sector investment – Despite
developing a strategy for trade logistics will have a
having the third highest public investment rate, i.e.
positive net economic effect.37
government investment, in the world, Ethiopia sits

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Section 1.4 – Foreign Direct Investment

As mentioned briefly in section 1.3 of this report, foreign direct investment inflows to Ethiopia have grown
considerably in recent years. The interest from foreign firms looking to invest in the country can be seen in the fact
that when Ethiopia released its first Euro-bond offering in 2014, raising $1 billion, the bond was oversubscribed
by enthusiastic international parties.38
The levels of FDI have fluctuated in recent years, reaching around $953 million in 2013, according to the
International Trade Centre39, but reached $1.2 billion in 2014 according to UNCTAD.40 The Financial Times
reported that Ethiopia was aiming at FDI levels of $1.5 billion in 2015.41

Breakdown of Foreign Foreign Direct Investment 2012 2013 2014

Direct Investment
FDI Inflow (million USD) $279 $953 $1,200
2012-2014 (Santander)
FDI Stock (million USD) $5,111.4 $6,064.3 $7,264.3
Number of greenfield invest-
ments 17 17 32
FDI inwards (% of GCFC*) 1.7 5.7 6.7
FDI Stock (in % of GDP) 11.8 13.0 13.9

*Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF) measures the value of additions to fixed assets
purchased by business, government and households less disposables of fixed disposals
of assets sold off or scrapped.

According to Santander, Ethiopia’s main investment Turkey, as mentioned above, is also another huge
partners are Saudi Arabia, China, the United States, player when it comes to Ethiopian investment. In fact,
India and Turkey.43 China is the country’s main trading Ethiopia is the recipient of Turkey’s highest levels of
and investment partner, offering factory construction FDI in Africa. Turkey’s Ethiopian envoy, Fatih Ulusoy,
and infrastructure projects, including the $475 stated in March 2016, that Ethiopia has attracted
million Addis Ababa Rail project, alongside billions in $2.5 billion of the total $6 billion Turkey has invested
exports.44 in the continent.45

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INTRODUCTION TO ETHIOPIA Foreign Direct Investment

Some of the infrastructure projects Turkey has In February 2016, the Ethiopian Investment
invested in in Ethiopia include the $1.5 billion Gibe Commission (EIC) announced it was to revise
III dam that is expected to generate nearly 2,000 regulations that slow down FDI inflows to the
megawatts of electricity, and a $300 million loan country and would implement these changes
it plans to invest in the Awash-Woldiya railway soon. Fitsum Arega, the Commissioner of the EIC,
project.48 stated that the new laws would create a favourable
trade environment as well as improving Ethiopia’s
As part of the government’s five year Growth and
standings on the World Bank Ease of Doing Business
Transformation Plans, fostering a strong environment
Index.48
for FDI is an essential part of creating sustainable
economic growth in Ethiopia. Much of the investment Foreign investors should find it refreshing that
in developing Ethiopia’s infrastructure is sourced Ethiopia, a country known for its comparatively
from overseas. minimal levels of crime and corruption, is committed
to fostering a competitive, welcoming environment for
According to the Financial Times, there are a
international investment. Currently, the environment
number of factors that make Ethiopia attractive for
is relatively uncompetitive so investors may wish to
foreign investors – namely cheap labour and wages,
enter in at the ground level before other firms come
inexpensive power and supportive government
flocking in.
policies.47

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Section 1.5 – Imports

Germany (10) China (1)

1.91% 26.31%
$417,690,781 $5,808,429,600

Japan (6)
Italy (7) 3.44%
2.78% $754,811,933
$608,999,463

United States (5) India (4)

3.50% Turkey (9) 5.47%
$767,999,610 2.07% $1,198,461,350
$453, 327,402
Kuwait (2)
8.21%
$1,799,215,749
Indonesia (8)
Saudi Arabia (3) 2.10%
Ethiopia Top Import 7.36% $461,130,149
Partners 2014 $1,612,688,745

(Michigan State
University Global
Edge)49 Rest of the World
36.65%
$8,031,618,860
Country
Share of Imports
Value of Imports

Ethiopia Top Import

Import Goods Share of Imports Value of Imports
Goods 2014 (Michigan
Oil & mineral fuels 17.66% $3,869,389,450
State University
Industrial machinery 13.40% $2,936,129,287
Global Edge)50
Electrical machinery 9.02% $1,977,441,553
Motor vehicles & parts 8.43% $1,846,604,169
Iron & steel articles 4.88% $1,068,831,784
Plastics 4.55% $996,015,527
Iron & steel 3.97% $869,629,628
Cereals 2.57% $562,806,575
Fats & oils 2.33% $511,133,667
Fertilisers 2.16% $474,180,149
Other goods 31.04% $6,802,211,859
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Section 2:
Ethiopia’s construction
industry by sector

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ETHIOPIA’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY BY SECTOR

Section 2.1 – Construction Industry Overview

Ethiopia’s construction sector is one of the most robust in Africa. Conditions are ripe for a surge in building
across the country. The updating and building of new infrastructure links, residential developments and so on is
of considerable interest to the Ethiopian Government. Indeed, development of these areas features heavily in the
nation’s Second Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP II).

The GTP five year plans lay out the blueprint for activity accounted for 15% of Ethiopia’s total
Ethiopia’s continued economic growth. As such, output.52
construction will play a key role towards achieving the
Using these stats, it can be seen that construction
country’s economic prosperity goals.
accounted for 7.5% of Ethiopia’s total GDP during this
According to the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE), period. According to African Economic Outlook, this
construction accounts for half of all the nation’s equates to 9.4% of total output at current prices.53
industry.51 What’s more, the industry is expanding This would give the construction industry a market
rapidly. Data from the NBE also suggests that during value of around $6 billion.
2013/14 the building sector grew 37%. Industrial

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ETHIOPIA’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY BY SECTOR Construction industry overview

According to BMI Research, Ethiopia is set for further GTP II also includes major objectives to be achieved
building-related growth in 2016. BMI estimates that over the next five years. As such, the goals for the
the nation will maintain its status as a “regional building industry are:
growth outperformer” by posting real growth of
 Improve the industry’s capacity in a sustainable
18.6%. The research firm also suggests that Ethiopia
way
will enjoy 12.7% growth until 2021 with final ten year
growth averaging 10.7% in 2025.54  Ensure efficiency and effectiveness of
construction contact procurement and
In short, the figures above are painting a bold picture
management
for construction in Ethiopia. It is expected that
massive foreign investment will be required to fuel  Develop internationally competent contractors
this growth. alongside design and construction consultants

Alongside attracting overseas investors, the  Improve availability of raw materials and
government has outlined other strategic goals related machinery in the construction industry
to development of the construction industry. As  Implement new technologies and construction
explained in GTP II, the government is planning to: methods56
 Reduce the cost of projects by increasing In short, Ethiopia has big plans for construction over
the capacity, efficiency and effectiveness of the next five years. The focus seems to be mainly
contractors focussed on infrastructure and housing initiatives.
 Implement kaizen* and construction project However, if Ethiopia’s economy continues its
management system tools55 impressive upward trajectory, hotel, retail and other
*kaizen is a Japanese business philosophy of continuous
sectors could see a big boost in construction levels.
improvement of working practices, personal efficiency and But as it stands, Ethiopia remains Africa’s leading
so on. nation for building industry growth.
These strategic directions are designed to foster a It should be noted that up to 70% of all construction
competitive construction industry in Ethiopia. Project materials needed in Ethiopia are imported. This
management itself offers scope for international includes cables, steel, ceramics, locks, furniture and
contractors to enter the Ethiopian market. What electrical fittings. All are critical for the completion of
better way than to promote an foreign building the nation’s lofty building and infrastructure goals. As
company than through consultancy? Of course, the such, foreign firms can find promising opportunities
major projects and initiatives planned offer other in the export trade regarding Ethiopia.57
avenues for overseas brands to explore.

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Section 2.2 – Infrastructure Construction

Infrastructure investment accounts for the majority of the government’s construction spending. The East
African reported that 2014 saw $1.5 billion of Ethiopia’s total $8.5 billion government budget being invested
in infrastructure.58 A wealth of construction projects began under the auspices of the first Growth and
Transformation Plan. The second GTP will improve on the targets laid down in the initial plan. Mr Yigzaw revealed
the below construction activities planned under GTP II:

Breakdown of Foreign Project GTP II Target GTP II Target

Direct Investment
All weather road construction 120,000 km 220,000 km
2012-2014 (Santander)
Railway network expansion 691 km 2,782 km
Electric power generation 2,220.5 mw 17,347 mw

Construction Review Online noted that roughly $20 In March 2016, Prime Minister Hailemariam
billion has been set aside by the government for Desalegn announ ced the development of a 2,000
energy infrastructure construction. GTP II will be MW hydropower power project60. Essentially, this
the main beneficent of this huge investment level. means another massive dam will be built – a further
Much of the funds will go towards 10-12 new power opportunity for foreign firms to do business in
generation projects.59 Ethiopia.

Ethiopia has the potential to become a massive Updating transport links is another aspect of
supplier and producer of energy. As such, major infrastructure that the Ethiopian government is keen
power-producing building projects have been finished to explore. A number of collaborative projects have
or are underway or in the planning stages. One such been completed in recent years. These demonstrate
project is the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. This the vast sums Ethiopia is willing to invest in such
$4.8 million hydroelectric development is estimated developments.
for completion in 2017. Italian construction firm Salini
For example, numerous Chinese banks and
Impregilo is building the huge dam alongside the
construction companies have invest billions in new
Ethiopian government. More details on this project
railway track. Updated networks now mean trade can
can be found in section 4.3 of this report.
flow easily from neighbouring Djibouti to Ethiopia’s
Hydroelectric power generation is vital to Ethiopia. capital. The 700km electrified railway was partly
Three dams, including the 1,870 MW Gibe 3, 1,450 MW funded by $3 billion of loans from the Exim bank of
Gibe 4 and the 660 MW Gibe 5, are already producing China.61 As of January 2016, 90% of the track had
power. been completed.

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Chinese investment in Ethiopian railways is extensive. Some $240 million was set aside by the government
$475 million was poured into the construction of the for road building projects in 2015. Whether this
Addis Ababa light rail line, again partially funded investment rises over the course of GTP II’s five
by China’s Exim bank. Addis Ababa is the first Sub- year duration remains to be seen. It does, however,
Saharan city to enjoy an inner-city metro line.62 demonstrate the huge sums being thrown into
infrastructure in Ethiopia.
Further rail projects include the $1.7 billion Awash
Woldia-Hara Gebeya line. Turkish construction firm Outside of this sum is the $222 million project linking
Yapi Merkezi is developing the line alongside the Agamsa-Bure and Nekempte-Anger Gutin-Andhode.68
government. Incorporated into this project will be 389 The World Bank is providing funding for this road
kilometres of new track, 40 kilometres of maintenance development. Construction will be handled by Indian
lines and 18 kilometres of station lines. New tunnels, contractor IL&FS, with the firm’s Spanish subsidiary
three terminal stations and six intermediate stations Elsamex building an 85 km route connecting Agamsa-
are planned for construction too.63 Bure as well as an 86 km stretch from Nekempte-
Anger Gutin-Andhode.69
Like many developing nations, road building is an
essential part of infrastructure expansion in Ethiopia. There is also the $700 million Modjo-Hawassa
Rural roads in particular are of vital importance. Expressway, which is examined in more detail in
85% of the nation’s population still lives in rural section 4.3 of this report.
areas. Linking these places to more urbanised areas
As Ethiopia is landlocked, road, rail and air links are
is of vital importance for the country’s long-term
vital. The $21 million Hawasa Airport is soon to be
development, according to news outlet All Africa. 64
completed, further improving the region’s trade and
As such, many roads are planned or in the midst of travel connections, as of April 2016.70
construction. A 48 kilometre stretch linking Sanja
A huge airport, rivalling London Heathrow in size, is
and Keraker is one example. The $36 million project
also underway. The new facility will, it is claimed by
is once more being built by a Chinese consortium
the Ethiopian Airport Enterprise, have a capacity of
headed by Chinese Railway Number 3 Engineering
120 million passengers. Four runways and a number
group.65 Further roads planned include the Qerani
of terminal buildings are also planned.71 Airport
Medhanialem-Ambo road65, the Sodo-Tercha asphalt
Technology has reported that costs for the new
road, the 99 kilometre Gash and Laibela-Sekota
facility could reach as high as $4 billion.72
asphalt road and the Dichito-Gaifeli roundabout in
the North East.67

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Section 2.3 – Residential Construction

With a large and growing population, Ethiopia is facing a major housing deficit. As such, residential construction
has been targeted as main area of development by the government. The Ministry of Urban Development, Housing
& Construction says it will build 2.45 million houses over the course of the five year GTP II. 73

The housing deficit can perhaps be best exemplified construction. Some major schemes have already
by the capital. A 2011 UN report suggested, at that been completed, such as 18,000 apartments in the
time, that Addis Ababa needed at least 300,000 new nation’s capital.77
homes to meet demand.74 However, with the city
Foreign companies are expected to play a vital
expanding at a rate of 3.8% per year, in terms of both
role in this huge housing construction effort. Driba
wealth and population75, more and more housing
Kuma, the Mayor of Addis Ababa, said in 2015 that
units are needed.
the city is considering opening up housing tenders
While investment figures have yet to be released, to international companies to help alleviate the
costs are expected to reach billions. For example, demand.78
700,000 condominiums are planned for construction
Projections from Ethiopia’s Central Statistics Agency
over the next five years. Total costs for these housing
suggest that 22 million people will make up the
units is estimated at $312 million.76
country’s urban population by 2020.79 At this time, the
750,000 homes are to be built in urban areas where, total population is expected to exceed 100 million.
at present, roughly 19.5% of Ethiopia’s population It is only logical that housing demand will rapidly
lives. 1.7 million rural homes are also planned for expand during this period.

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ETHIOPIA’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY BY SECTOR Residential Construction

The above mainly refers to affordable housing. Addis Adaba, it should be noted, is home to the
Schemes pertaining to this are outlined in more detail headquarters of the African Union and the United
in section 4.2 of this report. But what about luxury Nations Economic Commission for Africa. As such,
developments? As one of the world’s fastest growing affluent international visitors can be found here.
economies, it is expected that wealth will increase A demand for luxury developments is likely to be, in
in Ethiopia’s capital. In turn, demand for higher-end part, driven by their presence.
developments could rise over the coming years.
With housing demand comes a demand for finishings
A luxury housing boom is being seen in and around and interior materials. Suppliers should, however, be
Addis Ababa. For example, a 600-hectare area in the made aware that many of the truly affordable houses
city’s suburbs has been transformed from empty won’t feature wall or floor finishings in a bid to save
fields into the villa-studded Yerrer View estate. Prices costs. But for mid-to-high end developments, there
for houses here begin at around $330,000. The Addis are many opportunities.
Gojo project, which incorporates 113 apartments into
The primary need will be for quality construction
three 10 storey towers, is underway in the Kazanchis
materials, as has been evidenced by other countries
business district.80
prioritising residential construction. Foreign firms are
5,400 new homes are planned for the Yerrer View well placed to supply these much needed products.
development. A mixture of villas and apartments are
planned. Space for some 20,000 people would be
available for purchase here.81

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ETHIOPIA’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY BY SECTOR

Section 2.4 – Industrial Construction

The industrial output of Ethiopia currently stands at 15% of the nation’s total GDP. As with many aspects of the
nation’s economic composition, the government is keen to increase this. A range of new construction projects are
thus underway to boost industrial output.

One such project is the building of four new industrial Dutch brewers reported that its plant was up to full
parks in Adama, Mekelle, Kombolcha and Dire Dawa. capacity. Heineken currently owns and operates three
Construction of these facilities was expected to breweries across the country as part of a $356 million
commence in late May 2016. The building of these investment plan.
facilities is expected to cost in the region of $1 billion.
Construction of a modern engine factory began in
Each has a construction time of 9 months so could be
September 2015. Under the auspices of Ethiopia’s
fully operational by February 2017. 82
government, the 30-hectare site is set to be able
Increasing industrial output is likely the main to manufacture between 20-30 thousand different
objective of this development, as this forms the basis engine types annually. Power units for tractors, cars,
for one part of the second Growth and Transformation trucks, industrial machines and other smaller types
Plan.83Updating the number of industrial parks are set for construction in the facility. 88
across the country also has the added benefit of
Becoming a local, and potentially global,
attracting further foreign investment. Dr. Arkebe
manufacturing hub is one of Ethiopia’s long-term
Equbay, Board Chairman of the Ethiopian Industrial
goals. As such, the government has pledged to spend
Parks Development Corporation, told Awramba Times
some $10 billion on updating the nation’s industrial
that by establishing further parks, foreign direct
infrastructure across the next decade. A number
investment levels should increase.84
of Chinese and European lenders are involved in
A total of nine new industrial parks are to be built financing this scheme, alongside the International
across Ethiopia. The Jewish Business News reported Finance Corp. 89
that AlfaBet Planners, one of Israel’s largest design
This is just a snapshot of the many industrial
groups, was approached by the Ethiopian Urban and
developments planned in Ethiopia. Many more
Development Ministry to consider collaborating on
projects are currently on the slate – many with
construction of these new facilities.85
the backing of international finance firms and
Recently, major international companies have construction companies. Is there room for more?
constructed or updated their existing Ethiopian Certainly. With large-scale commitment from the
facilities. Diageo PLC, one of the world’s largest liquor government to nurture and expand industrial output,
groups, spent $119 million on upgrading its Meta it makes sense that more and more construction
Abo bottling plant.86 Beer brand Heineken opened a opportunities will arise in the industrial sector.
brewery in Ethiopia in 2014. After just six months, the

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Section 2.5 – Other Construction Activities

While the infrastructure, industrial and residential sectors are seeing the most construction activity, there is still
much being built in other areas. Civic and hotel construction in particular is flourishing in Ethiopia.

A number of new stadiums are to be built across 12 towers, each with 12 storeys, will be built in Addis
the country. Addis Ababa will see five alone. Dotted Ababa. 42 of the country’s 132 federal institutions will
around the city, they will range in size from 40,000 be housed here. Projected costs for this development
square metres, 70,000 square metres, and 110,000 are expected to reach around $24 million.
square metres. Each will have a maximum capacity of
It should be noted that, at present, Ethiopia’s office
30,000 occupants.90
and retail building sectors are intrinsically linked.
This comes following the news that the government Most retail spaces in the nation’s urban areas can
will collaborate with Chinese developers on a new be found in the first three to four floors of office
60,000 seat national stadium. $94 million has been blocks.93 This has a knock on effect for international
put aside for construction of the stadium. The developers. Many struggle to plan adequately for this
Chinese State Construction Engineering Corporation quirk of Ethiopian office building design – but those
was selected to develop this project.91 that take this into account could easily flourish.

Developing Addis Ababa’s business district is also a Raising tourism levels is targeted under GTP II. As
top priority. The headquarters of major pan-African such, hotel construction has seen an upswing in
organisations are situated here. Thus, a big effort is recent years. Hyatt was the first to kick off the boom,
being put into developing the city’s business related building a 5-star development in Addis Ababa.94
areas. Kacha announced plans in April 2015 to construct two
international hotels in Ethiopia.95 The Wyndham hotel
For example, the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia
group announced the construction of multiple hotels
recently hired the Chinese State Construction
around the country in May 2016 too, demonstrating
Engineering Corporation Ltd (CSCEC) to construct a
Ethiopia’s burgeoning hotel construction market. 96
new 42-storey block to house its offices. The $266.5
million development will become the tallest building The construction industry as a whole is moving
in African once completed. 92 forward at a terrific pace in Ethiopia. Moreover,
international companies are required for their
The government too is expanding its own presence in
expertise, knowledge and product quality to help lead
Ethiopia’s capital. It was announced in June 2015 that
the country further along the path to success.

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Section 3 –
Building Materials
Statistics &
Opportunities

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BUILDING MATERIALS STATISTICS & OPPORTUNITIES

Section 3.1 – Overview & Import Stats

Ethiopia imports over 70% of all its required construction materials, including cables, steel, ceramics,
locks, furniture and electrical fittings.97 In a nation that has such lofty construction goals, a range of import
opportunities are available for the relevant international companies.

Construction machinery is also in high demand.

International trade data reveals that Ethiopia Expert insight
imported $307 million worth of large construction
vehicles in 2014 – 7.8% of the $3.92 billion spent
Dessalegn Yigzaw –
by the country on machinery imports that year. A
Trade & Development Manager, British Embassy,
further $24.8 million was spent on imports of other
Ethiopia
construction vehicles this year too. 98

Any large-scale construction projects will require “The Ethiopian construction industry is heavily
metals in abundance. Reflecting this, Ethiopia dependent on imports. Only cement, steel, which only
imported close to $2 billion worth of metal products, amounts to roughly half of local need, sand, gravel and
including raw iron bars, aluminium, copper wire and paint are sourced locally.
steel, in 2014.99
“Aluminium, ceramics, the remaining half of the local
According to a study from the Ethiopia’s Chinese requirement for steel panels, welding panels, bitumen
Embassy, structural steel is very much in high and all finishing materials are imported. There is no
demand. Between 2005 and 2010, for example, local supply for these products.
Ethiopia imported an average of 31 million tons of
structural steel.100 Demand is only set to expand “Given the size of the infrastructure projects
alongside the country’s construction ambitions. underway, as part of the second Growth and
Transformation Plan, you can imagine the volume of
Glass and building stone is in high demand too. imports needed. Demand from specialist products
2014 saw stone and glass imports reach a value of from overseas will be very high over the next five years.
$149 million. $13.8 million worth of building stones
were imported over 2014 alongside $9.42 million in “In fact, I expect the need for construction materials
refractory bricks and $6.66 million in float glass.101 imported from foreign firms to greatly accelerate as
the Ethiopian government invests more and more in
infrastructure projects and associated spending.”

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BUILDING MATERIALS STATISTICS & OPPORTUNITIES Overview & Import Stats

It should be noted that Ethiopia is naturally abundant match production levels. However, it has been noted
in a number of materials utilised in the construction that demand could quickly outweigh the nation’s
industry. These include marble, granite, limestone, domestic production capabilities.
clay and gypsum.102 At present, the nation lacks the
While local manufacturers, such as market leaders
facilities to extract these minerals for processing.
Dangote, hold an instilled capacity of 11.2 million
This lack of mining capacity has a knock on effect tons,103 demand is quickly outstripping supply.
for international construction material suppliers – Expansive road building and infrastructure upgrading
especially given the wide range of infrastructure and programmes are expected to increase demand for
construction projects planned or in progress. Trade quality cements. 104
opportunities for processing machinery suppliers are
A lack of product diversification in the domestic
available now and only expected to improve in the
industry also places the supply of quality, specialised
future.
cements into foreign distributors’ hands. Imports of
Cement is one area where Ethiopia appears to be both bespoke cement mixes and the machines to
excelling. According to Construction Review Online, provide them could rise.
the domestic industry manufacturers around 5.74
million tons of cement annually. Consumption totals

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Section 4 –
Major Projects

Ethiopia is currently home to some major construction projects, chiefly in the field of infrastructure but
residential developments feature heavily as well. Here, we look at some of the chief projects that demonstrate
Ethiopia’s commitment to improving the nation via construction.

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MAJOR PROJECTS

Section 4.1 – Condominium Construction

As Africa’s second most populated country, a substantial amount of housing is needed in Ethiopia. As such, the
government has responded by stepping up condominium construction in numerous sites across the country.

700,000 condominiums are planned for construction, according to Ethiopia’s Minister for Urban Development
and Housing Mekuria Haile. This burst of housing construction is part of the government’s second Growth and
Transformation Plan period, which will run from the tail end of 2015 to 2020.105

According to Capital Ethiopia, 67 billion Ethiopian birr in funding will be required to fund these multiple
developments. At current exchange rates, the total set aside for housing construction comes to roughly $312
million.106

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MAJOR PROJECTS Condominium Construction

The initial phase of construction is set mainly in Addis the homeowner and the government. So a 10/90
Ababa. More than 1,200 houses have been built under condominium means the buyer contributes 10%
various affordable housing schemes in the capital so of the value with the government making up the
far. A further 20,000 condominiums and an additional remaining 90%.110
39,000 units are planned for construction in 2016
The Addis Ababa Saving Houses Development
across the capital.108
Enterprise (AASHDE) is planning to construct 75,000
As a result of these construction projects, a wealth new condominium units under the 40/60 scheme in
of employment and infrastructure opportunities have the capital within the next five years. The organisation
been presented. According to Mr Haile, over 10.5 also plans to construct 15,000 additional residential
million permanent and casual jobs have been created units in the capital featuring new designs, in terms of
by nationwide housing initiatives over the past 10 Ethiopian housing, across 2016. 111
years. 109
The updated units feature “experimental” designs,
In terms of infrastructure, water and power supply which essentially constitutes an increase in the
lines have also had to be constructed. This is a number of floors per building. Currently Ethiopian
major requirement, given the current low levels of condominiums tend to feature 12 storeys whereas
urbanisation in Ethiopia. Power requirements are the updated units will be expanded to feature 15
being taken care of by major hydroelectric dams, but storeys.112
the facilities needed to supply this power to housing
Building new housing units across the country is a
complexes are still required.
high priority for the Ethiopian government. While
Affordability is vital in any country facing housing much of this construction is stemming from the
shortages. As such, numerous schemes have government and domestic developers, in May 2015,
been put in place to ensure these condominium the government invited foreign companies to invest in
developments are within reach of the nation’s its numerous housing projects.113
population.
As such, the housing deficit does present
Freshly built apartment blocks are separated out international construction firms, architects and other
into 10/90, 20/80 and 40/60 developments. The related companies opportunities to expand into one
individual figures, such as 10/90, refers to the of Africa’s fastest growing economic climates.
amount contributed towards the unit’s cost by

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MAJOR PROJECTS

Section 4.2 - Modjo-Hawassa Expressway

Hundreds of millions of dollars is being poured into road construction in Ethiopia. With an annual urbanisation
growth rate at around 4.5%, as outlined in section 1.1 of this report, there is a need for strong transport links
including roads.

One large-scale road construction project is the 200 Financing the Expressway was a lengthy process.
kilometre Modjo-Hawassa Expressway, linking the In 2013, for example, none of the key financiers had
two towns across South-Central Ethiopia. The project been lined up.120 But, as explained above, construction
is expected to cost approximately $700 million. 114 is well underway. Further adding to the international
flavour of the project is the fact that the road was
Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn presided over
planned by Italian firm Techniplan International
the launch of the first phase of construction, which
Consulting, with local consultancy firm Ethio-Infra
will stretch from Modjo to Meki, in December 2015.
Engineering reviewing the final plans.
Phase 1 will cover a distance of around 60 kilometres.
Projected timescales for the expressway suggest that Four construction phases are planned. We touched on
it will take five years to complete with an end date of the initial stage earlier on in this section, but the four
2020.115 stages are:

As part of Ethiopia’s infrastructure expansion regime, Modjo-Meki – 57 kilometres

the new road will be linked to the pre-existing Addis- Meki-Zeway – 37 kilometres
Adama Expressway. What’s more intriguing about this Zeway-Arsi Negele – 57 kilometres
project is that it will also form part of a 10,000km Arsi Negele-Hawassa – 52 kilometres122
pan-African highway linking Cairo in the North to
One intriguing feature of the Expressway is, according
Gaborone and Cape Town in Southern Africa.116
to Construction Review Online, is the fact that that a
This is a major project for Ethiopia. As such, million new trees will be planted along the length of
the government has reached out to a number of the route.123
international financial institutions and companies for
Of course, the most appealing factor for
the funding, design and construction of the road.
construction and engineering firms is the global
The World Bank has approved a $370 million loan character of this project. Through the cooperation
to improve Ethiopia’s transport links. Part of sum of a number of international companies, the road
has been apportioned to the Modjo-Hawassa has begun construction after years in limbo. It
Expressway.117 $171 million has come from the China also demonstrated the Ethiopian government’s
Railway Seventh Group, a subsidiary of the state- commitment to seeking overseas funding and
owned China Railway Engineering Corporation, who expertise when it comes to large-scale infrastructure
will be responsible for the route’s construction.118 projects.
Other groups providing funding for the road include
the African Development bank and the Exim Bank of
Korea.119

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MAJOR PROJECTS

Section 4.3 – Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam

If there is one project that sets the tone for Ethiopia’s infrastructure development ideals, it is the Grand Ethiopian
Renaissance Dam (GERD). This mega structure, situated some 500 kilometres north of Ethiopia’s capital spanning
the Blue Nile river, will be Africa’s largest dam once it is completed. 124

A workforce of around 9,000 people is busy working Like many colossal construction projects, the building
on the dam, according to a report from news outlet of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam hasn’t
France 24.125 been without its fair share of controversy. A report
from International Rivers for example suggests
Italian construction firm Salini Impregilo is
that the plant load factor – the expected electricity
responsible for building the GERD alongside the
production divided by potential production if used
Ethiopian government. Salini Impregilo won a $4.8
permanently at full capacity – stands at 33%. Smaller
billion dollar contract in 2011 to build the dam. Once
hydropower dams in Ethiopia feature plant load
construction is completed, which is estimated to be
factors of between 45-60%, calling into question the
finished by 2017,126 the dam will span a length of 1.8
cost effectiveness and potential oversizing of the
kilometres with a height of 175 metres. The total body
GERD. 131
volume will stand at 10.2 million cubic metres. 127
Due to the fact that the dam will span the width of
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is a core
the Blue Nile, which feeds into the greater Nile and
component of the Ethiopian government’s plan
off into Egypt, the GERD has also been a source
to turn their country into a regional hub for power
of tension between the Ethiopian and Egyptian
generation. Two hydroelectric plants, situated on
governments.
opposite banks of the Blue Nile, will offer a total
installed capacity of 6000 megawatts of power with Water Technology reported that construction of the
a total expected output of 15,000 gigawatts a year.128 dam reached the halfway point in 2014.132 However,
In a country where 77% of the population is without Construction Review Online contradicts this by
electricity, the GERD is vital in improving the quality estimating that in March 2016, the dam was roughly
of life for its many millions of inhabitants.129 30% complete.133 Reports have also speculated that
the first 750 mw of power will be generated in 2016.134
In terms of funding, the majority of the $4.8 billion figure
comes from the government itself. A conglomerate Beyond being a powerful symbol of Ethiopian
of Chinese banks is providing $1.8 billion for the ambition, the GERD also represents how foreign
turbines and equipment for the power stations.130 construction companies can find especially lucrative
With international finance and construction, this dam opportunities in the African state.
perfectly demonstrates Ethiopia’s growing openness
towards providing international companies access to
prestigious construction projects.

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Section 5 –
Doing Business
in Ethiopia

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DOING BUSINESS IN ETHIOPIA

Section 5.1 – Doing Business

Currently, Ethiopia ranks 148th on the Heritage 2016 Index of Economic Freedom with a total score of 51.5. This
means that the African country sits below the global average score of 60.7. Ethiopia also sits below the regional
average of 55.5.135

Compared with 2015, Ethiopia’s rankings have In 2014, the world’s leading financial ratings services
remained static. As such, the business environment awarded Ethiopia its first sovereign credit ratings.137
has remained relatively unchanged in recent Moody’s Financial Services138, Standard and Poor’s139
years. However, according to the World Bank and and Fitch140 have all rated Ethiopia as a stable
International Financial Corporation’s 2016 Doing country for investment.
Business rankings, Ethiopia’s score has increased by
2 points from 148 to 146 – showing progress is slowly
being made. 136

Ethiopia Investment Ratings Institution Rating Outlook

Ratings 2016
Moody’s B1 Stable
Fitch B Stable
S&P B/B Stable

From these rankings, we can see that Ethiopia could present some challenges for international firms looking to
establish themselves in the country. However, with stable credit ratings and slowly rising ease of doing business
rankings, Ethiopia could very well become an important African country for international investment.

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DOING BUSINESS IN ETHIOPIA

Section 5.2 – Key Business Stats

All data taken from the World Bank and International Financial Corporation (IFC) Doing Business guide:141

Topic DB Rank 2016 DB Rank 2015 Change

Starting a business 176 170 -6
Dealing with construction permits 73 70 -6
Getting electricity 129 127 -2
Registering property 141 140 -1
Getting credit 167 165 -2
Protecting minority investors 166 165 -1
Paying taxes 113 113 No change
Trading across borders 166 165 -1
Enforcing contracts 84 84 No change
Resolving insolvency 114 118 +4

Time and Cost of Exports/Imports142

Cost/time of border compliance includes time/cost

Indicator Value for obtaining, preparing and submitting documents
Time to export: Border compliance 57 hours during port or border handling, customs clearance
and inspection procedures – World Bank/IFC
Cost to export: Border compliance $144
definition.
Time to export: Documentary compliance 126 hours Cost/time of documentary compliance includes
Cost to export: Documentary compliance $175 the time/cost for obtaining documents, preparing
documents, processing documents, presenting
Time to import: Border compliance 203 hours documents and submitting documents – World
Cost to import: border compliance $668 Bank/IFC definition.

Time to import: Documentary compliance 209 hours

Cost to import: Documentary compliance $750

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DOING BUSINESS IN ETHIOPIA Key Business Stats

While export and import times vary, it should be Enforcing contracts is a lengthy procedure in
pointed out that Ethiopia itself is a landlocked Ethiopia. However, the Doing Business guide points
country with no natural seaports available. The out that it takes substantially less time than Sub-
country relies on its neighbours Djibouti and Kenya Saharan Africa’s regional average. The average time in
for sea access but a number of infrastructure Ethiopia is 530 days compared with the Sub-Saharan
projects, such as the construction of overland figure of 653 days. 144
railways, will reduce transport times and costs
The cost in claims is also much lower than lower than
significantly. The British government’s Doing Business
the average regional costs. In Ethiopia, it costs 15.2%
Guide suggests that it can take up to 75 d ays to clear
of the total debt value, including court and attorney
imports. 143
fees, compared with the much higher figure of 44.9%
expected across Sub-Saharan Africa.145

Resolving insolvency in Ethiopia146

The recovery rate calculates how many cents on the

Indicator Value dollar secured creditors recover from an insolvent
Recovery rate (cents on USD) $0.29.6 firm at the end of insolvency proceedings – World
Bank/IFC definition.
Time (years) 3.0 years
Time refers to the average duration of insolvency
Cost (% of estate) 14.5% proceedings. The time of the proceedings is
recorded in calendar years and includes all appeals
and delays – World Bank/IFC definition.
Cost refers to the average cost of insolvency
proceedings. The cost of the proceedings is
recorded as a percentage of the estate’s value –
World Bank/IFC definition.

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Section 6 –
Challenges &
Opportunities

Section 6.1 – Section 6.2 –

Opportunities Challenges

Young, growing population Low quality and coverage of infrastructure

Huge investment in infrastructure, housing and other Low Doing Business ranking
construction projects
Occasional delays in accessing foreign exchange
One of the world’s fastest growing economies
Lack of sea ports
Heavy reliance on imports for vital construction materials
Potentially long import times (75 days to clear)
Growing demand for international expertise, knowledge
and products in the construction industry

Government in favour of foreign direct investment

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ITEBeauty
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developments in the market.

ITESecurity&ProtectionWe organise the AfricaBuild series of building and interiors

exhibitions, with events in Lagos and Addis Adaba.

ITETravel&Tourism

ITEMining
ITETransport&Logistics
ITEHealthcare

ITEConstruction Machinery

AfricaBuild Addis – your gateway

to Ethiopia’s construction industry
AfricaBuild Addis is a brand new trade show dedicated to the
architecture, building, décor, and design industries. The event
Addis will bring together Ethiopia’s key construction professionals
with international manufacturers and suppliers from around the
world. AfricaBuild Addis makes the ideal platform for entering
Ethiopia’s thriving building and interiors industry.

ITEBeauty
ITEOil&Gas
35 Ethiopia: Transforming a Nation ITEBuild&Interiors
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Contact us
Ricardo Falcioni
Marketing Analyst
T: +44 (0) 2075965045
E: [Link]@[Link]

link
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ITEBeauty
ITEOil&Gas
36 Ethiopia: Transforming a Nation ITEBuild&Interiors