Development of a Roadmap for “Greening the Industrial Parks” in Ethiopia

The Ethiopian industrial sector has been experiencing steady growth since more than a decade ago, especially because of the development and implementation of robust industrial policies and strategies as well as the adoption of sound macroeconomic reforms by the government. The sector is witnessing an increase in both foreign and domestic investments, particularly in the manufacturing sector. To augment this momentum, the Government of Ethiopia, in 2014, established the Industrial Parks Development Corporation (IPDC), which was mandated to lead the country’s industrialization process, through the construction, management and operations of industrial parks across the country. This is in accordance with the aspirations of the country’s Second Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP II), and in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 9. The GTP II envisaged the industrial sector to play a greater role in GDP growth, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings. In this regard, the government of Ethiopia prioritized the promotion of micro and small enterprises as well as supporting the development of medium and large-scale industries across the country. The Plan also emphasized the establishment of industrial zones, public enterprise management and privatization in the country. This project is aligned with IO1. Strengthened national, sub-national and local green growth planning, financing and institutional frameworks.