Ethiopia’s Clean Energy Drive Anchored in Regional Integration, Connectivity: PM Abiy

Addis Ababa, January 31, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s clean energy development strategy is firmly anchored in regional integration and cross-border connectivity, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said, underscoring that the country’s energy ambitions are inseparable from cooperation with neighboring nations.
The Prime Minister made the remarks on Saturday while inaugurating the Aysha II Wind Power Project in the Somali Region, alongside President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
The Aysha II project has a total installed capacity of 120 megawatts, with 80 megawatts from its first phase already connected to the national grid, marking a significant step in Ethiopia’s renewable energy expansion.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Abiy said Ethiopia has reached a defining moment where national development goals are closely linked to energy growth.

“By expanding our renewable energy sources, we are lighting up every corner of the country—not just its streets, but also the hopes and prosperity of our people,” he said.

The Prime Minister noted that the Aysha II project reflects Ethiopia’s pursuit of self-reliance through collective effort and effective utilization of local resources, emphasizing that clean energy is central to the country’s long-term economic transformation.

He stressed that Ethiopia’s clean energy agenda aligns with global economic trends and climate priorities, adding that sustained investment in energy infrastructure forms the backbone of sustainable growth.

Highlighting the link between energy development and environmental protection, Prime Minister Abiy cited the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a flagship achievement constructed entirely with domestic resources.

“The GERD stands as a source of pride for Africans and a practical example of what clean energy cooperation can achieve,” he said.

According to the Prime Minister, Ethiopia’s renewable energy vision extends beyond domestic needs and is designed to strengthen ties with neighboring countries.

He noted that Ethiopia is working closely with Djibouti on energy, water management, and infrastructure, while parallel efforts are underway to deepen energy and transport connectivity with Somalia and South Sudan.

In this context, the commissioning of the first phase of the Aysha II wind farm was described as a milestone in reinforcing regional cooperation and shared development.

Prime Minister Abiy also said Ethiopia’s progress in clean energy contributed to its selection as host of the upcoming COP-32 Summit, noting that the country is prepared to showcase Africa’s ambitions and solutions on the global stage.

He concluded by emphasizing the vast potential of East Africa, stating that coordinated regional action could secure reliable energy futures for individual countries while delivering broad economic and environmental benefits across the region.