The Afar region is reporting significant strides in investment and industrial development, largely attributed to the nationwide "Ethiopia Tamirt" (Made in Ethiopia) movement. According to Afar Chief Administrator Haji Awol Arba, the initiative has been instrumental in leveraging the region's agricultural and tourism potential and boosting its manufacturing sector.
Recalling that the number of factories engaged in the industrial sector in the region was no more than 6 before the recent changes (reform era), he announced that 10 factories will soon be inaugurated and begin operations.
The Chief Administrator also stated that significant results have been achieved in increasing salt production in the Afar region, reaching a level where it can potentially eliminate the need for imported salt.
He further announced that efforts are underway to add value to salt, chemicals, and fruits produced in the region by utilizing its potential, and to supply them to the market.
The Chief Administrator noted that there are over 300 producers engaged in the small and large-scale manufacturing sectors in the region.