Ethiopia Set for Surge in Digital Payments Ecosystem: Visa Study Reveals Path to Accelerated Growth

Ethiopia Set for Surge in Digital Payments Ecosystem: Visa Study Reveals Path to Accelerated Growth Digital payments are booming in Ethiopia: Most of the surveyed merchants believe digital payments are bringing convenience for their customers and improving efficiency Digital payments drive growth: 66% of the surveyed SMEs agree that investing in digital payment technologies will support future business growth Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, February 13 2025:  Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in payments, today announced the launch of a new report, ‘Value of Acceptance: Understanding the Digital Payment Landscape in Ethiopia.’ The report reveals rapid digital payment adoption among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with the vast majority recognizing the benefits for consumers. The report presents an encouraging outlook for Ethiopia with over 80% of the surveyed SMEs having started to accept digital payments in the last two years, citing increased convenience, reduced fraud risk, and improved efficiency. Furthermore, 66% agree that investing in digital payment technologies will support future business growth. Digital Payments Momentum This positive momentum is expected to continue with a high level of preference by SMEs – 92% using digital payments reported satisfactory support from the government and major institutions and quicker payment processing. This satisfaction, the report states, is encouraging 64% of the SMEs already using digital payments to consider investment in additional payment technologies, boosting an already thriving digital payment landscape. “The research findings paint a promising picture of Ethiopia’s growing digital payments landscape,” commented Yared Endale, Country Manager, Visa Ethiopia “The increasing preference for digital transactions, coupled with the recognized benefits for businesses and the broader economy, creates a powerful opportunity for growth. Visa is committed to working with our partners across the ecosystem to unlock the full potential of digital payments for all in Ethiopia – for individuals and businesses alike.” Ethiopia’s digital payment opportunities To encourage digital acceptance, the report recommends security awareness campaigns, value-added solutions such as loyalty programs, and access to data and insights. Given the prevalence of cash, the report also suggests introducing user-friendly digital solutions that mirror cash’s simplicity, positioning digital payments as a way to future-proof businesses and expand their customer base. The report highlights the opportunity to build the right perception about digital payments as 59% of SMEs are neutral about fraud risks. Citing plans of 64% of the surveyed SMEs to invest in payment technologies and the growth of digital acceptance in the last two years, the report says Ethiopia’s digital savvy market is primed for a surge in the digital economy. The Broader Value of Digital Payment Acceptance Digital payments offer crucial benefits for Ethiopian SMEs, boosting revenue through a wider, increasingly cashless customer base, enhancing customer satisfaction with faster transactions, and reducing operational risks by minimizing cash handling. Digital records also provide valuable data that facilitates access to financing, stimulating growth. While cash remains popular for its perceived speed and convenience, there’s significant potential to introduce similarly convenient and secure digital payment solutions that complement cash usage. Beyond direct benefits, digital payment adoption drives economic growth and financial inclusion, connecting the unbanked to the formal financial system and enabling access to savings, credit, and insurance. Research shows that the transition to the digital economy can generate 1-2% annual GDP growth – a mere 1% increase in card usage generates an average $67 billion annual increase in goods and services consumption across 70 countries and territories. Visa: A Partner in Driving Digital Payment Adoption Visa is uniquely positioned to support Ethiopia’s transition to a more digital economy. As a trusted advisor and partner, Visa offers a range of capabilities to help governments, financial institutions, businesses, and technology providers enhance their digital payment acceptance maturity. Visa’s suite of solutions includes programs for specific merchant segments, innovations like Tap to Phone, Contactless Payments and Click to Pay, and resources educating businesses about the benefits of digital payments. About the Visa Value of Acceptance report Visa’s ‘Value of Acceptance: Understanding the Digital Payment Landscape in Ethiopia’ report, conducted by 4Sight Research & Analytics, examines the current state of digital payment acceptance, exploring both opportunities and challenges. The findings are based on face-to-face interviews with 259 SMB owners/managers across who are key decision makers with respect to day-to-day business decisions. About Visa Inc. Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.

Ethiopian Capital Market Authority Grants Securities Investment Advisor License to Ethio Capital Solutions PLC

Ethiopian Capital Market Authority Grants Securities Investment Advisor License to Ethio Capital Solutions PLC Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – February 19, 2025 The Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) has officially issued a Securities Investment Advisor License to Ethio Capital Solutions PLC, expanding the range of professional investment advisory services available in the country’s capital market. The move is part of ECMA’s broader effort to develop a well-regulated, transparent, and dynamic financial ecosystem. What the License Means The Securities Investment Advisor License allows Ethio Capital Solutions PLC to provide expert financial advisory services to various market participants, including issuers, individual investors, and institutional investors. The advisory services will focus on helping clients navigate the complexities of securities investments while maintaining high ethical standards, investor protection principles, and regulatory compliance requirements. The license was issued in accordance with Capital Market Service Providers Licensing Directive No. 980/2024, which outlines the qualifications, ethical standards, and operational criteria required for firms seeking to offer investment advisory services. Significance for the Ethiopian Capital Market The Ethiopian capital market is still in its early stages of development following the establishment of ECMA and the introduction of the Capital Markets Proclamation. The licensing of investment advisors like Ethio Capital Solutions PLC is expected to strengthen market confidence by ensuring that investors—both local and international—have access to reliable financial expertise and guidance. Investment advisors play a critical role in providing market analysis, portfolio management strategies, and risk assessment, allowing investors to make informed decisions. With this development, Ethiopia’s capital market is taking a step toward increased professionalism, transparency, and investor participation. Regulatory Oversight and Compliance ECMA has emphasized that all licensed Securities Investment Advisors must adhere to strict compliance and reporting requirements. These include: Ensuring that investment advice is objective and in the best interest of clients Complying with ethical standards and conflict-of-interest regulations Upholding investor protection principles to prevent fraudulent or misleading practices Regularly reporting to ECMA on business activities and adherence to market regulations The Ethiopian Capital Market Authority expects that Ethio Capital Solutions PLC will contribute to financial literacy, investor education, and overall market development. As the country continues to implement its capital market framework, more financial service providers are expected to enter the sector, offering a wider range of services to support Ethiopia’s growing investment landscape. This development is viewed as a positive step toward enhancing investor confidence, improving access to investment expertise, and fostering a well-regulated securities market in Ethiopia. 1 COMMENT Tegene Asefa Geme (Mcs) February 20, 2025 At 4:31 pm The introduction of licensed investment advisors is a strong move toward creating a well-regulated, dynamic, and professional financial market in Ethiopia. This will help transition the economy from a bank-dominated financial system to a more diversified one with opportunities for capital market investments. The introduction of licensed investment advisors is a strong move toward creating a well-regulated, dynamic, and professional financial market in Ethiopia. This will help transition the economy from a bank-dominated financial system to a more diversified one with opportunities for capital market investments. Comments are closed.

AliExpress to Expand Local Currency Payments in Ethiopia and Beyond

AliExpress to Expand Local Currency Payments in Ethiopia and Beyond AliExpress, the global e-commerce platform owned by Alibaba, is set to expand its local currency payment options across several African countries, including Ethiopia, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt, by February 24. This initiative is designed to enhance accessibility and convenience for African consumers, eliminating the reliance on international payment methods such as credit cards and foreign currency exchanges. By allowing transactions in local currencies, AliExpress aims to address one of the biggest barriers to online shopping in Africa—limited access to international payment systems. Many African consumers face difficulties making purchases online due to restrictions on foreign currency usage and a low penetration of global banking services. This expansion is expected to encourage more customers to shop on the platform, driving e-commerce adoption across the continent. A Major Step in AliExpress’s African Expansion Strategy The introduction of local currency payments represents a significant milestone in AliExpress’s broader strategy to tap into Africa’s rapidly growing digital economy. The African e-commerce market has been experiencing exponential growth, driven by increased internet penetration, rising smartphone usage, and an expanding middle class. With digital transactions becoming the preferred mode of payment, AliExpress is positioning itself to cater to this demand by offering seamless and localized shopping experiences. For Ethiopian consumers, the move is particularly impactful as Ethiopia has historically had strict foreign currency controls that often hinder online purchases. By integrating local payment solutions, AliExpress is making it easier for Ethiopian shoppers to access international products without the added burden of currency conversion fees or limited payment options. Physical Showrooms to Strengthen Local Presence Beyond digital transactions, AliExpress is also expanding its physical footprint across Africa. The company is opening showrooms in key markets such as Ethiopia, Nigeria, and South Africa. These showrooms will serve as hubs where wholesale customers and business owners can physically inspect products before making bulk purchases. This initiative aims to address concerns about product quality—one of the common hesitations among African consumers when shopping online. For local businesses, these showrooms will provide an opportunity to explore a variety of imported goods, compare options, and interact directly with AliExpress representatives to streamline their procurement processes. This direct engagement is expected to enhance trust between the platform and African business owners, further integrating AliExpress into the local trade ecosystem. Strategic Partnerships for Seamless Transactions AliExpress’s expansion into Africa’s local currency payments is being supported by strategic partnerships with regional telecom and financial service providers. These partnerships ensure that payments can be processed smoothly through mobile money platforms, bank transfers, and other locally preferred digital payment methods. In countries like Kenya and Nigeria, where mobile money services such as M-Pesa and Paga dominate financial transactions, AliExpress’s integration with these platforms will make online shopping even more accessible. Ethiopia, on the other hand, has been rapidly adopting digital financial solutions like Telebirr, which could play a significant role in facilitating payments for Ethiopian shoppers. By aligning its payment infrastructure with Africa’s most widely used financial services, AliExpress is reducing barriers to e-commerce participation and creating a more inclusive digital marketplace. Aiming for Market Dominance in Africa’s E-Commerce Boom The African e-commerce market is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, with increasing numbers of consumers turning to online shopping due to convenience and a wider range of product choices. AliExpress’s expansion strategy signals its intent to compete more aggressively with other global e-commerce giants such as Amazon and Jumia, which have also been making moves to dominate Africa’s online retail space. With the rollout of local currency payment options and an enhanced physical presence, AliExpress is positioning itself to become a dominant force in Africa’s digital commerce industry. By addressing key challenges such as payment accessibility, trust in product quality, and localized customer engagement, the platform is strengthening its foothold in one of the fastest-growing e-commerce markets in the world. As the February 24 rollout date approaches, consumers and businesses across Ethiopia, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt can expect a more seamless and locally adapted shopping experience on AliExpress. This expansion not only benefits shoppers by making international products more accessible but also presents significant opportunities for local businesses looking to leverage global trade. 1 COMMENT Darmolo kedir February 19, 2025 At 7:57 pm I am very happy by this un expected technology and market communication with the great worldwide market AliExpreses I am very happy by this un expected technology and market communication with the great worldwide market AliExpreses Comments are closed.

Hilton Expands Presence in Ethiopia with DoubleTree Hotels in Adama and Dire Dawa

Hilton Expands Presence in Ethiopia with DoubleTree Hotels in Adama and Dire Dawa Hilton is strengthening its footprint in Ethiopia with the signing of a deal with Brighton Hotels and Business Plc. to introduce two new DoubleTree by Hilton properties in Adama and Dire Dawa. Set to open in 2028, these hotels will bring internationally branded hospitality to two of Ethiopia’s key regional cities, supporting the country’s growing business and tourism sectors. Carlos Khneisser, Hilton’s vice president of development for the Middle East and Africa, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasizing the company’s commitment to expanding its presence across Ethiopia. “We are thrilled to work with Brighton Hotels and Business Plc. to bring DoubleTree by Hilton to Adama and Dire Dawa,” he said. “These properties will complement our soon-to-open DoubleTree by Hilton Addis Abeba Airport and the well-established Hilton Addis Abeba. We look forward to delivering reliable, welcoming stays for both business and leisure travelers.” Strategic Locations and Modern Amenities The Adama hotel will be strategically located along the main road connecting the city to Addis Ababa, in proximity to Adama Science and Technology University, Oromia Regional State Council, and several industrial hubs. Designed to offer a premium guest experience, it will feature 188 guest rooms and suites, providing sweeping views of the Rift Valley mountains. Guests can expect multiple dining options, a spacious ballroom, six meeting rooms, a business center, a spa, and an outdoor pool. In Dire Dawa, the hotel will be positioned near new government offices and industrial zones, just a 10-minute drive from Dire Dawa International Airport. It will house 150 guest rooms and suites, offering a blend of comfort and contemporary design. Additional amenities include diverse dining venues, a spa, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and versatile meeting spaces, including a grand ballroom. A Major Step for Ethiopian Hospitality Brighton Hotels and Business Plc. founder Yadeta Bekri highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to work with Hilton to bring an international brand to Adama and Dire Dawa. These hotels will provide spacious accommodations, modern amenities, and an elevated food and beverage experience for both travelers and the local community.” With Hilton already operating Hilton Addis Abeba and preparing to launch DoubleTree by Hilton Addis Abeba Airport, the company’s expansion aligns with its broader strategy to grow across Africa. By introducing high-quality hospitality infrastructure in regional economic hubs, Hilton aims to contribute to Ethiopia’s evolving tourism and business landscape. As Ethiopia continues to develop its hospitality sector, the arrival of DoubleTree by Hilton in Adama and Dire Dawa marks a promising milestone in the country’s efforts to attract more visitors and enhance travel experiences outside the capital.

Ethiopia Secures $600 Million Investment for Integrated Dairy and Commercial Farming Project

Ethiopia Secures $600 Million Investment for Integrated Dairy and Commercial Farming Project Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), Ethiopian Agricultural Business Corporation (EABC), and Asset Green have entered into a Shareholders Agreement (SHA) to jointly invest in an Integrated Dairy and Commercial Farming Project. The partnership aims to enhance Ethiopia’s agricultural sector through large-scale commercial investment and the introduction of advanced agricultural technology. The SHA was signed by Dr. Brook Taye, CEO of Ethiopian Investment Holdings; Ato Kifle W/Mariam, CEO of EABC; and Mr. Afshin Afsharnejad, CEO & Chairman of Asset Green. The signing ceremony was attended by Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, H.E. Ato Temesgen Tiruneh, and the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, H.E. Angela Rayner. The project, valued at nearly USD 600 million, will be implemented in two phases. The initial phase will focus on establishing a large-scale dairy farming and processing operation, with integrated feed farming on 15,000 hectares to ensure a stable supply chain. The second phase will expand operations to include cotton, oilseed, and rice farming, supported by advanced processing facilities and an integrated out-growers support center. During the ceremony, Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Ato Temesgen Tiruneh emphasized the government’s commitment to agricultural development, noting that the initiative aligns with efforts to enhance food security, create employment opportunities, and promote economic growth through investment and technology. Dr. Brook Taye, CEO of EIH, described the agreement as a significant step toward modernizing Ethiopia’s agricultural sector. He highlighted EIH’s commitment to incorporating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) safeguards and leveraging state-of-the-art technology to support sustainable growth. Mr. Afshin Afsharnejad, CEO & Chairman of Asset Green, reiterated the company’s dedication to the partnership, emphasizing that the collaboration seeks to establish a vertically integrated agribusiness that improves productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. The Integrated Dairy and Commercial Farming Project is expected to generate employment, attract foreign direct investment, and contribute to Ethiopia’s long-term economic development. The initiative also supports EIH’s broader strategy of promoting large-scale investment in key sectors, positioning Ethiopia as a leading agricultural hub in Africa. 1 COMMENT Teshome Korme February 19, 2025 At 8:27 pm The timely projects for the starving poor Ethiopian people. This project may set the model for modern agriculture in Ethiopia and benefits all across the value chain. The primitive fragmented agriculture in Ethiopia already proved for it’s inability to feed the exploding population and non sustainable. Wishing Success The timely projects for the starving poor Ethiopian people. This project may set the model for modern agriculture in Ethiopia and benefits all across the value chain. The primitive fragmented agriculture in Ethiopia already proved for it’s inability to feed the exploding population and non sustainable. Wishing Success Comments are closed.

Airbus signs Flight Hour Services contract for Ethiopian Airlines’ A350 fleet

Airbus signs Flight Hour Services contract for Ethiopian Airlines’ A350 fleet Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 17 February 2025 – Airbus has signed a 7-year Flight Hour Services (FHS) contract with Ethiopian Airlines for the comprehensive maintenance of its fleet of 24 Airbus A350 aircraft, including both the A350-900 and A350-1000 models. This agreement will provide Ethiopian Airlines with dedicated on-site stock in Addis Ababa, access to Airbus material pools worldwide, as well as repair and engineering support for a wide range of critical rotable parts. By leveraging Airbus’ extensive engineering expertise, Ethiopian Airlines will benefit from guaranteed component availability, rapid access to essential parts, and optimized maintenance processes. This will ensure minimal aircraft downtime and maximize operational reliability across its global network. Retta Melaku, Chief Operating Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, stated:“As the first African operator of the A350 Family, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of performance and reliability across our fleet. Partnering long-term with Airbus through this FHS agreement will help us optimize operations, reduce maintenance-related delays, and ensure our passengers continue to experience the best in safety, comfort, and service.” Laurent Negre, Vice President of Customer Services for Airbus Africa and Middle East, said:“This partnership reinforces Airbus’ commitment to delivering tailor-made maintenance solutions that support airlines in achieving the highest levels of operational efficiency. We are proud to support Ethiopian Airlines with our Flight Hour Services solution to enhance fleet reliability and streamline maintenance operations for its A350s.” Ethiopian Airlines has been a long-standing Airbus partner and was the first African carrier to operate both the A350-900 (June 2016) and the A350-1000 (November 2024). Airbus Flight Hour Services (FHS) provides a comprehensive maintenance solution designed to help airlines ensure component reliability and availability while controlling maintenance costs. Through a combination of pooled inventory, on-site stock, and tailored repair and engineering support, FHS helps carriers optimize operations and improve fleet reliability. More than 1,400 aircraft worldwide are currently covered by Airbus FHS agreements. Contacts for Airbus Africa and Middle East: Marie Ioan: +971 56 9962387 | marie.ioan@airbus.com Zaid Al-Farah: +971 56 603 7704 | zaid.al-farah@airbus.com Fanny Jacquet: +971 54 204 2393 | fanny.jacquet@airbus.com #EthiopianAirlines @Airbus #FHS #A350

Ethiopia’s Debt Crisis: Why Investors and the IMF Are Clashing

Ethiopia’s Debt Crisis: Why Investors and the IMF Are Clashing Ethiopia is caught in a financial dispute between international investors and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). At the center of this issue is Ethiopia’s $1 billion bond—a loan it took from private investors but stopped repaying in 2023 due to economic struggles and a civil war. Now, Ethiopia is trying to renegotiate its debt, but the process is turning into a battle over how much relief the country really needs. Why is Ethiopia in Debt Trouble? Like many developing countries, Ethiopia borrowed large amounts of money from international lenders, including private investors, foreign governments (like China), and global institutions (like the World Bank). However, in 2023, Ethiopia stopped making payments on its $1 billion bond, which meant it had officially “defaulted”—similar to how an individual might miss mortgage payments on their house. Ethiopia is now negotiating with its creditors (the people it owes money to) to reduce its debt burden. The IMF has stepped in to help Ethiopia secure a $3.4 billion bailout, but it has also set conditions, including requiring Ethiopia to get more debt relief from bondholders. Why Are Investors Angry at the IMF? A group of bondholders (the investors who lent Ethiopia the $1 billion) is accusing the IMF of exaggerating Ethiopia’s financial problems and unfairly pushing them to accept losses. Their argument is based on the fact that Ethiopia’s economy has been recovering strongly over the past year, especially in two key sectors: Coffee Exports: Ethiopia is Africa’s largest coffee producer, and the global demand for coffee has driven up prices. Ethiopia’s coffee exports increased by 60%, reaching nearly $1 billion in revenue. Ethiopia is Africa’s largest coffee producer, and the global demand for coffee has driven up prices. Ethiopia’s coffee exports increased by 60%, reaching nearly $1 billion in revenue. Gold Exports: Ethiopia’s gold exports have surged by an astonishing 700%, bringing in $1.3 billion. Part of this boom is due to the government cracking down on gold smuggling, forcing more gold sales into the official market. Ethiopia’s gold exports have surged by an astonishing 700%, bringing in $1.3 billion. Part of this boom is due to the government cracking down on gold smuggling, forcing more gold sales into the official market. Currency Devaluation Helped Boost Exports In 2024, Ethiopia devalued its currency (the birr)—meaning the birr lost value compared to the US dollar. While this made imported goods more expensive, it made Ethiopia’s exports cheaper and more competitive in international markets, doubling the country’s total exports to $3 billion in just six months. Because of this improvement in Ethiopia’s economy, bondholders believe Ethiopia doesn’t need as much debt relief as the IMF claims. They argue that the IMF’s forecasts ignore Ethiopia’s recent economic rebound and make the country’s financial situation look worse than it really is. What’s the IMF’s Position? The IMF disagrees with investors and says that despite recent improvements, Ethiopia’s debt is still “unsustainable.” The IMF believes that: Ethiopia’s export growth might be temporary and not enough to guarantee long-term financial stability. The country still has $30 billion in external debt, and restructuring is necessary to avoid future defaults. Ethiopia must reduce its debt compared to its exports to meet the IMF’s lending criteria. Because Ethiopia is receiving a $3.4 billion bailout from the IMF, the fund has a lot of influence over how debt negotiations play out. Investors are frustrated that the IMF is pushing for bigger debt reductions than they think are necessary. Why Did Investors Reject Ethiopia’s Debt Proposal? In October 2023, Ethiopia offered to cut the bond’s value by 18%—meaning investors would lose some of their money but still get most of it back. However, bondholders rejected this offer because: They believe Ethiopia’s economy is improving, so there’s no need for a major reduction. They suspect the IMF is manipulating the numbers to justify a larger debt cut. They think they can negotiate a better deal. Meanwhile, critics argue that investors could have still made a profit if they had accepted Ethiopia’s offer. A report by Debt Justice and other African economic think-tanks showed that investors bought Ethiopian bonds at a discount (67 cents per dollar), meaning even with the debt reduction, they would still make money. The Hydropower Loan Controversy Another big issue frustrating investors is that Ethiopia is taking out a new $1 billion loan to build the country’s second-largest hydropower dam while still being in default on its old debt. Investors argue: If Ethiopia can afford a huge loan for a dam, why can’t it pay its existing debts? The IMF should not have allowed this loan while Ethiopia is still negotiating debt relief. The bondholder committee wants Ethiopia to reveal the terms of the new dam loan, saying it’s unfair to borrow more while refusing to fully pay back existing debts. What Does This Mean for Ethiopia? Ethiopia is walking a tightrope between satisfying the IMF (to secure bailout funds) and keeping investors happy (to maintain its reputation in global markets). The outcome of these negotiations will affect: 1. Ethiopia’s Economic Future If Ethiopia gets a fair debt deal, it could stabilize its economy and attract more investment. If the process drags on or investors refuse to negotiate, Ethiopia could face even deeper financial trouble. 2. Other Countries in Debt Crises Many other developing countries (like Sri Lanka and Zambia) are in similar situations. How Ethiopia handles its debt could set a precedent for how future debt negotiations are handled. 3. Relations with China and Other Lenders Ethiopia owes most of its $30 billion debt to China and other governments, which are usually less willing to accept losses than private investors. The IMF wants all lenders to share the burden, but big lenders like China may resist debt cuts. Bottom Line This situation is a power struggle between investors, the IMF, and Ethiopia over how much debt relief is truly necessary. Investors say Ethiopia’s booming coffee and gold exports mean it doesn’t need much debt relief. The IMF says Ethiopia’s debt is still too high and needs to be significantly reduced. Ethiopia is caught in the middle, trying to secure a good deal while also borrowing more money for development projects. The final outcome will impact Ethiopia’s economy, international reputation, and ability to borrow money in the future.

Ethiopia Set to Introduce New Passport and Visa System by End of the Month

Ethiopia Set to Introduce New Passport and Visa System by End of the Month Ethiopia is set to officially introduce a new passport and visa system by the end of the current Ethiopian month, Yekatit 2017 (February 2025), according to the Immigration and Citizenship Service. The revised passport, designed with advanced security features and enhanced aesthetics, will replace the existing version, while the visa system will also undergo a major transformation. This announcement was made during an inspection visit by the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of People’s Representatives to the Immigration and Citizenship Service headquarters. A Modernized Passport with Enhanced Features The newly designed passport is said to be significantly superior to the current one in terms of color, design, content, and security. The internal pages of the passport will feature cultural and historical landmarks from Ethiopia, including Aksum, Gondar, the Great Wall of Jegol, coffee production, and other national heritage sites. Alongside the passport update, Ethiopia will also introduce a new visa sticker and an electronic visa system. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has informed the diplomatic community about these changes, emphasizing that Ethiopia’s visa process has been fully digitized, replacing the old handwritten system. Transition to Digital and Biometric Security According to Deputy Director Ato Biki, the previous system, where visas were issued manually, had security loopholes. The new system ensures that all residency permits, visas, and passports will be processed digitally, enhancing security and efficiency. A significant change in the travel documentation process is the introduction of fully biometric data registration for emergency travel documents. Previously, these documents were issued on paper, allowing certain foreign nationals, including Eritreans, to claim refugee status and exit the country more easily. The new system aims to eliminate fraud and increase accountability. Improved Security for Ethiopian Passports Officials highlighted that the old laminated passport design had vulnerabilities, making it easier to forge. There have been reports of Ethiopian passport booklets being illegally copied and distributed in Uganda and Somaliland. The new electronic passport, featuring biometric security, will make counterfeiting nearly impossible. Another key change is the localization of passport production. Previously, Ethiopian passports were printed abroad without direct government oversight. The new passports will be designed, produced, and controlled domestically, ensuring stricter security and national oversight. New Passport Fees and Expedited Processing The Immigration and Citizenship Service recently revised its pricing structure for passport issuance. Standard processing will cost 5,000 ETB, while an expedited passport available in two days will cost 25,000 ETB. A five-day expedited service will be priced at 20,000 ETB. Fees for lost or damaged passports range from 13,000 ETB to 40,000 ETB, depending on the case. With the implementation of these changes, Ethiopia aims to modernize its immigration services, enhance national security, and improve the efficiency of passport and visa processing. The new system is expected to officially roll out by the end of Yekatit 2017 (February 2025), with the old passport remaining valid until Sene 2017 (July 2025). 8 COMMENTS Fekadu Beyene February 16, 2025 At 9:20 pm The old passport should be valid until its expiry date. Orherwise, a person who renewed his/her passport two months ago will be forced to apply for the new passport in July. This will create a lot of crowd in the provision of service and making it more expensive if one has to get it urgently. If the government is ready to print it faster domestically, it may workout. Abiyatar Assefa February 18, 2025 At 2:56 pm It is definitely True! First I would like to appreciate the Government body behind this system ! My comment is, There must be another way for such cases. 1. 2000 birr must be compensated 2. Peoples with such case should be get in to considerations with for example, getting priority for passport processes and on time delivery, 3. Person who have flight schedules with in the time of system change should be considered Finally I hope things would be settled peacefully and promptly! The old passport should be valid until its expiry date. Orherwise, a person who renewed his/her passport two months ago will be forced to apply for the new passport in July. This will create a lot of crowd in the provision of service and making it more expensive if one has to get it urgently. If the government is ready to print it faster domestically, it may workout. Abiyatar Assefa February 18, 2025 At 2:56 pm It is definitely True! First I would like to appreciate the Government body behind this system ! My comment is, There must be another way for such cases. 1. 2000 birr must be compensated 2. Peoples with such case should be get in to considerations with for example, getting priority for passport processes and on time delivery, 3. Person who have flight schedules with in the time of system change should be considered Finally I hope things would be settled peacefully and promptly! It is definitely True! First I would like to appreciate the Government body behind this system ! My comment is, There must be another way for such cases. 1. 2000 birr must be compensated 2. Peoples with such case should be get in to considerations with for example, getting priority for passport processes and on time delivery, 3. Person who have flight schedules with in the time of system change should be considered Finally I hope things would be settled peacefully and promptly! Yes February 17, 2025 At 7:53 am New way of collecting money from the people New way of collecting money from the people Nuredin Kedir February 17, 2025 At 11:40 am Modernised passport and electronic visa is the best way for all Ethiopians citizen. I hope that all Ethiopian ?? citizen will have this passport. Modernised passport and electronic visa is the best way for all Ethiopians citizen. I hope that all Ethiopian ?? citizen will have this passport. Teddy February 18, 2025 At 9:21 am Considering the current economical environment; the first comment by Fekadu Beyene is logical and should be considered. Those who have recently renewed their passport should be exempted from having to change it. The initiative to upgrade the passport is a good idea since it lacks strong security measures. Considering the current economical environment; the first comment by Fekadu Beyene is logical and should be considered. Those who have recently renewed their passport should be exempted from having to change it. The initiative to upgrade the passport is a good idea since it lacks strong security measures. Emu February 21, 2025 At 3:37 pm I recently renewed my passport urgently(5days) like 2weeks back. Does it mean I also have to renew again for this one?Paying 20k again is unfair..!! Addis Insight February 22, 2025 At 12:31 pm No I recently renewed my passport urgently(5days) like 2weeks back. Does it mean I also have to renew again for this one?Paying 20k again is unfair..!! Addis Insight February 22, 2025 At 12:31 pm No No Ethiopia Introduces New E-Passport in 2025 February 28, 2025 At 12:59 am […] Ethiopia has reformed its visa issuance process by introducing a fully digitized system. This replaces the previous manual, handwritten method, addressing security vulnerabilities and […] […] Ethiopia has reformed its visa issuance process by introducing a fully digitized system. This replaces the previous manual, handwritten method, addressing security vulnerabilities and […] Comments are closed.

Ethiopian Airlines Transports 50 Million Flower Stems for Valentine’s Season

Ethiopian Airlines Transports 50 Million Flower Stems for Valentine’s Season Ethiopian Cargo and Logistics Service has successfully transported an impressive 50 million stems of flowers, amounting to 4,200 tons, in preparation for the Valentine’s season. As one of the world’s leading air cargo operators, Ethiopian Cargo plays a crucial role in the global flower supply chain, ensuring that fresh blooms reach markets across different continents just in time for the most romantic day of the year. The majority of these shipments originated from key flower-producing regions, including Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Nairobi (Kenya), and Bogotá (Colombia). These regions are globally recognized for their high-quality flower production, particularly roses, which are in high demand during Valentine’s Day. Ethiopian Cargo efficiently transported these floral shipments to major international markets such as Liege (Belgium), Brussels (Belgium), and various destinations across the Middle East. These hubs serve as key distribution points, enabling flowers to reach florists and retailers across Europe, the Gulf region, and beyond. To meet the heightened demand of the Valentine’s season, Ethiopian Cargo deployed its state-of-the-art Boeing 777 freighter aircraft, which are equipped with advanced temperature-controlled cargo holds. This ensures that the delicate flowers remain fresh throughout their journey, preserving their beauty and quality upon arrival. Ethiopian Cargo’s extensive cool chain logistics solutions and efficient handling systems have made it a trusted partner for flower exporters worldwide. As the largest cargo operator in Africa, Ethiopian Cargo continues to expand its capabilities, reinforcing its position as a critical link in the global flower export industry. By prioritizing reliability and efficiency, the airline enables flower growers and exporters in Africa and Latin America to connect with international buyers, helping businesses thrive while delivering joy to millions of people around the world. “At Ethiopian Cargo, we take pride in being a go-to partner for the global flower industry, especially during peak seasons like Valentine’s Day,” the company stated. “Our commitment to excellence in air freight services ensures that every petal reaches its destination fresh and vibrant, spreading love and happiness across the globe.” With its strong global network, cutting-edge logistics infrastructure, and commitment to quality, Ethiopian Cargo continues to play a leading role in transporting flowers and perishable goods worldwide, reinforcing Ethiopia’s position as a key player in the international flower export market.