Operationalization of Nigus Tekle Haimanot Airport to Spur Trade, Investment and Tourism: Prime Minister Abiy

Addis Ababa, July 12, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the operationalization of the newly modernized Nigus Tekle Haimanot Airport in Debre Markos will significantly stimulate trade, investment, and tourism, opening a new chapter for economic growth in northwestern Ethiopia.

The Prime Minister officially inaugurated the upgraded airport today, describing the project as a transformative investment that responds to a long-standing demand from the people of Debre Markos and surrounding communities.

The Prime Minister further revealed that modernized airport will be strengthening the country's transport infrastructure.

Constructed with a 2,400-meter runway and a width of 30 meters, the airport is designed to accommodate larger passenger and cargo aircraft, including the Bombardier Q400 and Boeing 737, substantially improving regional air connectivity.

 

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Abiy said the airport's operationalization will revitalize commercial activity, attract new investment, expand tourism, and improve access to domestic and international markets.

He noted that the launch of air services marks an important milestone in Ethiopia's broader efforts to expand modern infrastructure and create new economic opportunities across the country.

The Prime Minister added that while the commencement of regular air transport with the potential for up to three daily flights, will greatly improve mobility and connectivity, restoring normal land transportation remains equally important.

The Premier stressed that lasting peace is essential to ensure citizens can travel safely and fully benefit from the country's expanding infrastructure.

Emphasizing that sustainable peace is indispensable to Ethiopia's development, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to dialogue.

He affirmed that it remains open to engaging with any group prepared to resolve differences through peaceful, constitutional, and democratic means.

 

He also underscored that sustainable development requires time, cooperation, mutual trust, and collective responsibility, calling on all Ethiopians to work together to close gaps in development, strengthen national prosperity, and build a better future for coming generations.

Warning against attempts to divide citizens along ethnic or regional lines, he said such narratives only deepen fragmentation and undermine national unity. Instead, he urged Ethiopians to embrace dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation as the most effective path toward lasting peace and inclusive development.

Recalling Ethiopia's long history, Prime Minister Abiy observed that while the country has experienced both peace and conflict throughout the centuries, its greatest priority today is accelerating development and improving the well-being of its people.

 

He concluded by calling on all citizens to uphold the spirit of Medemer (synergy) through unity.

In that regard, PM Abiy underscored that only through peace, cooperation, and shared purpose can Ethiopia fully realize its development aspirations and leave a more prosperous nation for future generations.