According to the Ethiopian Investment Commission, there are 43 Chinese firms operating in the country. Representing a total investment of two billion US dollars, the companies have been recognized by the government as leading job providers.

China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) are China-based world class construction companies operating in Ethiopia and have created thousands of jobs for locals. 

“As we know, the key for poverty reduction is job creation and also the key for economic transformation is to create a quick success which has led the inspiration and the experience to the continent. And we see this is really happening and Ethiopia is leading the changes,” said Helen Hai, adviser to Chinese companies.

Over the last decade, China has risen to become the single largest trade partner and major source of financial support for many African countries. However, Ethiopia still needs more investment from Chinese companies to achieve its dream of becoming a middle-income state in less than two decades.