Nationwide Development Projects Foundations to Realize Prosperous Ethiopia: PM  

Addis Ababa, May 12/2024(ENA)-Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the development activities underway across the country, including construction of infrastructures, the Green Legacy program, and others development projects are the cornerstone for realizing  a prosperous Ethiopia.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and First Lady Zinash Tayachew, along with regional presidents, unveiled the Abay River Bridge in Bahir Dar, Amhara regional capital.

 

The bridge is a remarkable infrastructure project overseen by the federal government which was commenced 4.5 years ago. 

This modern bridge spans 380 meters in length boasts a width of 43 meters, featuring three lanes on each side alongside a dedicated bicycle lane.  

Destined to be a defining landmark of Bahirdar City, the Abay River Bridge promises to catalyze economic growth and connectivity in the region.

During the inauguration, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said we are working to build a bridge of unity that will strengthen the bonds of our people by focusing on building infrastructure and thinking. 

He emphasized that it is possible to build a common narrative by breaking down the wall of differences and connecting our country through infrastructure and other projects.

Many development activities, including construction of infrastructures, other development projects, and the Green Legacy program that have been underway nationwide are the foundation for realizing the aspired prosperous Ethiopia, he stated. 

As the Prime Minister said, the Abay River Bridge has a great contribution to the connection of peoples, the acceleration of trade and tourism activities.

He stated that the new bridge will help build a unity narrative by connecting people. 

“The Abay Bridge inaugurated today in Bahir Dar City marks a significant step towards fostering stronger interpersonal connections and boosting trade opportunities. Yet, beyond its physical structure, our vision extends to bridges that bridge divides, uniting people from opposing sides for a shared future. It's about crafting narratives that transcend regional boundaries, uniting us as a cohesive whole. Our mission is to dismantle restrictive mindsets and narratives that serve as barriers, fostering unity and cooperation among all.”

The people of the region should take advantage of the opportunity created, protect unity and peace, ensure sustainable development, and work for the next generation, he said.

The government, which inaugurated the Abay River Bridge today, is also working on the development of the Gorgora and Logo Lake projects, which are part of the Dine for the Nation and Dine for Generation.

The Abay River Bridge is expected to significantly boost trade, tourism, and investment in the region.  

 

Amhara Region Chief Administrator, Arega Kebede noted that the new bridge built on the great Abay River will make the region and the city center of gravity for development.

Apart from the importance of the bridge to promote business, tourism, investment and other development activities, it is a landmark that serves as the main symbol of the city, just like its palm trees and Lake Tana, he added. 

The construction of the bridge makes Bahir Dar a preferred city and creates opportunity for carrying out other development activities around the Abay River basin, he explained.   

Ethiopian Roads Authority, Director General Engineer Mohamed Abdurahman stated that the Abay River Bridge included pedestrian and bicycle lanes and used state-of-the-art construction technology.

 

According to the director general, the Abay River Bridge has the capacity to serve for one hundred years.