PM Abiy Launches Construction of Gada Special Economic Zone in Oromia 

Addis Ababa, May 10/2024(ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has officially launched the construction of Gada Special Economic Zone today.

The premier wrote on X that “We aim to replicate the successes of our agricultural sector in the industrial domain, and the Gada Special Economic Zone serves as a pivotal platform to realize this vision, unlocking the vast potential of our region and nation.”

With the establishment and operation of the Lume Free Trade Zone within the Special Economic Zone (SEZ,) it will become the second free trade area after Dire Dawa, amplifying opportunities for economic growth and development, Abiy added. 

The economic zone aims to enhance national economic reform, Homegrown Economic Reform and small business activities.

The main objective of the Special Economic Zone project is to create job opportunities for thousands of young people, to build a competitive business center in Africa, it was learned. 

Meanwhile, memorandum of understanding between CCECC and the Oromia Regional State was signed  for the development of the Lume free trade zone within the Gada SEZ, according to Office of the Prime Minister.

During the occasion, the prime minister emphasized the need to replicate agricultural successes in the industrial sector, underscoring the importance of policy support and robust infrastructure for the zone's future operations, the office said.

Situated 65km east of Addis Ababa, this initiative aims to boost exports, establish a trade logistics center, and allure foreign investments, fostering industrial, trade, investment, and urban development.