In a statement on X, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali said: “Today marks a historic occasion for all Ethiopians as we lay the foundation stone for two transformative projects: the urea fertilizer plant, to be developed by Ethiopian Investment Holdings in partnership with the Dangote Group, and the Gode Oil Refinery, to be constructed by GCL.”
He added: “The fertilizer plant, with a capacity of 3 million tpy, will rely on natural gas from the Calub gas fields, delivered through a 108 km pipeline.”
According to the government, the new facility is expected to play a key role in strengthening Ethiopia’s domestic fertilizer production capacity and reducing reliance on imports. The project aligns with the country’s broader industrialization and energy diversification strategy, which includes utilizing local natural gas resources to support downstream manufacturing.
Dangote Group, one of Africa’s largest industrial conglomerates, has expanded its operations across several sectors, including cement, fertilizer, and oil refining. Its partnership with Ethiopian Investment Holdings is viewed as part of ongoing efforts to attract international investment and technological expertise to Ethiopia’s growing industrial base.
The urea fertilizer plant is projected to produce 3 million tonnes annually, using feedstock sourced from the Calub gas fields. The 108 km gas pipeline connecting the fields to the plant will ensure a steady supply of natural gas, improving operational stability and efficiency. The project is also expected to create new job opportunities and promote local skill development in Ethiopia’s emerging energy and manufacturing sectors.
In addition to the fertilizer project, the Gode Oil Refinery, to be developed by GCL, will enhance Ethiopia’s domestic fuel processing capacity. Together, the two projects represent a major step in the country’s effort to strengthen energy security, boost industrial output, and support sustainable economic growth.
The Ethiopian government highlighted that both projects reflect its commitment to leveraging natural resources responsibly while fostering partnerships with international investors to advance national development priorities. The initiative underscores Ethiopia’s strategy to enhance value-added production within its borders, diversify its energy sources, and support agricultural productivity through domestic fertilizer manufacturing.
Overall, the partnership between Ethiopian Investment Holdings and the Dangote Group marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s industrial development, positioning the country to become more self-sufficient in fertilizer production and energy utilization in the years ahead.
