By: Daure David
In a historic move set to reshape Africa’s agricultural landscape, Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has signed a $2.5 billion partnership with the Ethiopian Government to construct one of the world’s largest single-site fertiliser plants in Gode, Somali Regional State.
The landmark agreement was formalized on Thursday between Dangote Group and Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), the government’s strategic investment arm. Under the terms of the deal, Dangote Group will hold a 60% equity stake, while EIH will retain 40%, ensuring strong local participation in the transformative project.
According to EIH, the facility will rank among the top five largest urea production complexes globally, boasting a production capacity of up to three million metric tonnes per annum. The project is expected to be completed within 40 months and will include a dedicated pipeline to transport natural gas from Ethiopia’s Calub and Hilala gas fields, with provisions for future expansion into ammonia-based fertilisers.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, EIH CEO Dr. Brook Taye described the venture as a “significant milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward industrial self-sufficiency and agricultural modernization.” He emphasized the project’s potential to boost energy security, enhance productivity, and deliver tremendous value to Ethiopian farmers.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed hailed the agreement as a decisive step toward food sovereignty. “This mega project will produce up to 3 million metric tons of fertilizer annually, placing Ethiopia among the largest producers globally. It will create jobs locally, ensure a reliable fertilizer supply for our farmers, and mark a decisive step in our path to food sovereignty,” he stated.
Aliko Dangote echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, noting that the partnership aligns with his vision to industrialize Africa and strengthen food security across the continent. “We are committed to bringing our decades of experience in large-scale industrial projects to ensure this venture becomes a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s industrial transformation,” Dangote said.
The fertiliser complex is expected to create thousands of jobs, reduce Ethiopia’s reliance on imports, and position the country as a major exporter across East Africa. With this latest investment, Dangote continues to expand his industrial footprint across the continent, following the success of his Lagos-based fertiliser plant inaugurated in 2022.
