Ethiopia Launches Construction Sector Overhaul to Cut Import Reliance, Lift Quality

Ethiopia has rolled out the Construction Industry Transformation Initiative (CITI), a 25-year programme designed to overhaul the construction sector, improve quality, and reduce reliance on imported materials. The initiative is aligned with the government’s development framework and recognizes the sector’s critical role, employing over 10% of the workforce and contributing nearly 20% of GDP. It focuses on adopting technology-driven services, rewarding high-performing professionals, and strengthening public-private partnerships. Urban Development Minister Chaltu Sani highlighted that local contractors are preparing to compete internationally while actively expanding in more than 70 cities. Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh described the programme as both a continuation of Ethiopia’s long construction tradition and a necessary correction of inefficiencies. With its emphasis on transparency, collaboration, and innovation, CITI is set to reshape the construction industry into a more resilient and competitive sector.