UNOPS and Ethiopia Sign US$8.1 Million Agreement to Enhance Rural Connectivity with New Fleet

UNOPS and the Government of Ethiopia, through its Ministry of Urban and Infrastructure (MoUI), have signed an $8.1 million agreement to procure a significant fleet of earth-moving vehicles, marking a critical step forward for the Rural Connectivity for Food Security Program.

The agreement, supported by funding from the World Bank, will see UNOPS procure and deliver 88 purpose-built vehicles, including motor graders, vibratory rollers, wheel loaders, and dump trucks. This modern machinery is essential for building and maintaining rural roads, which are vital for connecting agricultural communities to markets, services, and opportunities.

“By enhancing rural connectivity, we are directly contributing to increased food security and economic resilience for communities,” said Ms. Worknesh Mekonnen, Director of UNOPS Horn of Africa Multi-Country Office and representative to the African Union.

The project will facilitate the construction of all-weather roads, helping to reduce transportation costs, decrease post-harvest losses for farmers, and improve access to healthcare and education. The initiative is a key component of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen the nation’s agricultural sector and rural economy.

Procurement and delivery of the vehicles will be managed by UNOPS, leveraging its expertise in international public procurement. The project is scheduled for completion by November 2026.

Notes to the editors: 

Press contact details:

Meron Aberra, Communication Officer UNOPS, Tel:+251 911221060, Email: merons@unops.org 

About UNOPS

UNOPS offers practical solutions across peace and security, humanitarian and development operations. We help the United Nations, governments, and other partners to manage projects and deliver sustainable infrastructure and procurement globally. Read more: www.unops.org/ethiopia