Statement by UNOPS Executive Director on Ethiopia visit

He made the statement after visiting Ethiopia, as part of a visit that has also taken him to Sudan and Somalia.

I am honoured to have had the opportunity to visit Ethiopia and witness first-hand the incredible work being carried out by UNOPS in partnership with the Government of Ethiopia, the United Nations family, and our other development partners. 

Ethiopia is a country of immense potential, with a rich cultural heritage, vibrant population, and strong commitment to sustainable development. I was impressed by the strength and determination of communities working to build a better future, in the face of challenges. 

I met with national and local officials, including H.E Taye AtskeSelassie, the President of Ethiopia, the Minister of Finance and two State Ministers of Agriculture. We discussed national development needs and priorities, and how UNOPS can support. I also had the opportunity to meet with H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission to discuss the priorities of the African Union and the practical solutions UNOPS could provide.

UNOPS is proud to support Ethiopia’s journey towards peace and sustainable development. 

For over 15 years, we have offered solutions to strengthen national capacity and capability to deliver quality services in Ethiopia, drawing on our expertise in sustainable procurement, project management and infrastructure. 

Over the years, with our partners, we have helped strengthen health and education systems. We have rehabilitated hospitals and schools, improved water and sanitation systems. We have supported climate-resilient infrastructure and enabled access to essential services in conflict-affected areas, responding to Ethiopia’s evolving needs and development priorities. 

In Tigray, where the conflict has had a devastating impact on millions of people and left communities without access to basic services, my colleagues are working hard to rebuild lives. 

Overall, with our partners, we have rehabilitated and reconstructed 42 schools and 34 health facilities, and hundreds of water pumps and sanitation facilities. Just last week, the newly  rehabilitated health centre and primary school in Asgede Woreda was handed over to local authorities. These efforts are being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, financed by the World Bank and working with our regional and local partners.

The results of our work in Tigray will leave a tangible impact on the communities’ lives. Over 367,000 people have benefited from these improvements, including nearly 190,000 women and nearly 39,000 internally displaced people. 

UNOPS is also working with Ethiopia's Ministry of Health to strengthen systems and enhance healthcare services; including by procuring and delivering vital equipment and supplies, enhancing blood storage capacity, as well as capacity for vaccine research and development, among others. 

As UNOPS, we reaffirm our commitment to Ethiopia and its people. We stand ready to scale our support in line with the national development agenda, and to continue working with our partners to deliver sustainable solutions that leave no one behind.