Renowned economist and United Nations advisor Professor Jeffrey Sachs has described Ethiopia’s rapid economic trajectory as a practical blueprint for the rest of the continent, proving that African nations can achieve ambitious development through strategic planning. Speaking during an appearance on EBC’s 'Addis Dialogue', Professor Sachs argued that Ethiopia’s progress demonstrates why African countries should not be confined by the modest 3% or 4% growth forecasts typically issued by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Professor Sachs stated that African nations must not remain "tethered to the austerity policies" of external institutions. He noted that Ethiopia is providing a live demonstration that double-digit economic growth is attainable when a country moves away from sporadic, year-to-year planning in favor of a clear, 10-year strategic roadmap. Reflecting on his frequent visits to the country, he remarked that the visible transformations in infrastructure, energy supply, and railway expansion particularly within the capital, Addis Ababa are both "exciting and promising."
Illustrating the practical impact of these macro-policies, Professor Sachs highlighted a recent visit to rural Ethiopia where he witnessed the synergy between infrastructure and modern agriculture. He observed how rural farmers are now utilizing reliable electricity and high-speed rail networks to export high-value, perishable goods such as avocados to the Gulf markets. He described the presence of Ethiopian produce on breakfast tables in cities like Dubai as a "living example" of how integrating knowledge, infrastructure, and trade logistics can successfully scale an economy.
Looking toward the future, the Professor predicted that the 'Digital Ethiopia 2030' initiative and plans for AI-driven universities will establish the nation as East Africa's primary technological hub. He concluded that Ethiopia’s success serves as more than a national achievement; it acts as a vital pillar for regional integration and a model for infrastructure-led growth across the entire Horn of Africa.
