Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has announced that the government is implementing a new strategic roadmap designed to provide a sustainable solution to the housing challenges facing citizens.
During his appearance at the 30th regular session of the 5th year of the 6th House of Peoples' Representatives, the Prime Minister unveiled an ambitious plan to construct at least 1.5 million new homes across the country over the next five years.
Reflecting on past achievements, the Prime Minister noted that 1.2 million homes have been built nationwide over the last seven years; a foundation he believes provides the necessary momentum to achieve this new, larger target.
He explained to the members of Parliament that the upcoming 1.5 million housing units will be developed through a collaborative framework involving the government, the private sector, and other strategic partnerships.
To ensure the success of this initiative, a new policy has been finalized and approved by the Cabinet, which is expected to significantly accelerate the housing development process.
The Prime Minister emphasized that intensive preparatory work is already underway to bolster the construction sector. Specifically, he highlighted that factories producing construction materials have commenced operations to streamline supply chain logistics.
Furthermore, he noted that specialized training programs for construction professionals are ongoing, and that housing development projects have already begun in both urban and rural areas.
This multifaceted approach is a strategic move to ensure that both the human resources and the raw materials required for the construction boom are met through domestic production.
Addressing the critical issue of financial accessibility, the Prime Minister stated that the government is strengthening the mortgage system. This will establish a framework that allows citizens to become homeowners through long-term payment plans tailored to their income levels.
He highlighted that this initiative serves as a vital opportunity for citizens who would otherwise be unable to afford a home outright. Beyond meeting a fundamental human need, the Prime Minister noted that the massive housing project will stimulate the national economy and create significant job opportunities for a vast number of citizens.
In a broader context, the Prime Minister detailed the government’s ongoing focus on job creation, reporting that five million jobs have been generated across various sectors, including agriculture, in recent years.
Additionally, he noted that more than 600,000 citizens have secured employment through organized overseas labor programs after undergoing skills certification. He underscored that these combined efforts demonstrate the government's comprehensive plan to improve the livelihoods of its citizens.
This housing initiative is expected to play a critical role in addressing the housing and rental shortages that have become increasingly pressing in urban centers.
Analysts and stakeholders are closely watching the rollout of these programs, as the government’s commitment to this massive infrastructure project underscores its focus on driving economic growth and achieving long-term development goals.
