Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has emphasized the critical need for unity of thought and concerted effort to sustain and build upon Ethiopia's recent economic successes in the upcoming 2018 Ethiopian budget year. His remarks came during a Council of Ministers forum assessing the comprehensive plan for all sectors and the national development plan for the new fiscal period.
The prime minister lauded the 2017 budget year's economic performance as "significantly superior" to any previously recorded in Ethiopia's history. He reminded the cabinet of their commitment at the start of the 2017 fiscal year to work collectively towards a "true historical turning point" for Ethiopia's resurgence.
"Our export performance not only surpassed any in Ethiopia's history but also more than doubled compared to the previous year," Prime Minister Abiy stated, highlighting that revenue also saw a "significant leap, nearly doubling."
He further detailed key achievements from the past year, including a halving of inflation and tangible results in the service sector, exemplified by the launch of the Mesob Center, developed by local Ethiopian talent. The prime minister also pointed to "very promising results" from reforms in agriculture, industry, tourism, mining, and ICT, alongside "encouraging outcomes" in the social, education, and health sectors.
Overall, he noted that the government's performance this year has been "remarkably superior and encouraging" compared to previous periods.
However, Dr. Abiy underscored that these initial gains would be incomplete if not replicated in the 2018 fiscal year. He stressed the imperative to build upon these results, asserting that the next year will demand "quality collective ideas, meticulous planning, and a strong, unified effort."
"If our discussions on the plan translate into successful efforts across each sector, replicating this year's achievements, our opportunity to lead Ethiopia towards prosperity will be greatly expanded," he affirmed.
The Prime Minister also highlighted encouraging progress in major national projects, including the Grand Renaissance Dam, numerous road projects, and both urban and rural corridor developments. He concluded by reiterating that sustained success hinges on "strong and diligent leadership" from the cabinet, urging them to fully grasp their responsibilities and provide the necessary guidance to ensure the 2017 successes are repeated in the coming year.
Monday's forum, he noted, was specifically convened to foster this shared vision, with key agendas focused on reviewing and approving the upcoming year's plan and preparing for its effective implementation.
