The Ethiopian Army Foundation and UAE-based real estate developer Reportage Properties have broken ground on a major mixed-use development in Addis Ababa, blending residential and commercial space in one of the Ethiopian capital’s most significant recent real estate investments.

Set on a 23,000-square-metre site, the project comprises two residential towers delivering 1,086 apartments, alongside roughly 15,000 square metres of commercial space, recreational facilities and landscaped green areas.

A model for investment in Ethiopia

Speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony, Ethiopian Army Foundation Board Chairperson Martha Luwigi said the project would create employment opportunities, improve living standards, and facilitate the transfer of modern construction technologies and expertise. She said it would contribute to Addis Ababa’s economic and social transformation by stimulating investment and improving the city’s urban landscape, describing it as a potential model for future international investment and stronger investor confidence in Ethiopia.

Martha also highlighted Ethiopia’s progress in delivering major development projects under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. “Project execution, characterized by stronger leadership, effective coordination, close supervision, improved accountability, and more efficient utilization of resources, has undergone significant transformation,” she said. She emphasised that international cooperation and partnerships among government institutions, the private sector, international investors and development partners are essential to accelerate sustainable growth, attract quality investment, and facilitate technology and knowledge transfer.

Strengthening Ethiopia–UAE ties

The partnership brings together an Ethiopian institution and a UAE-based international developer, reflecting growing economic and investment cooperation between Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates.

Reportage Group Chairman Aref Ismail Al Khoori said Ethiopia has “tremendous potential,” adding that the company is committed to supporting the country’s growth through developments that create value and opportunities.

CEO and Group Managing Director of Reportage, Andrea Nucera, said the developer already has more than 70 employees in Ethiopia. “We will be an Ethiopian company operating in Ethiopia,” he said.

The Addis Ababa scheme extends a portfolio the developer has built across the Gulf, including UAE residential projects such as its Verdana townhouse development at Dubai Investments Park, and marks its move into the East African market.

Project Factsheet

Project: Mixed-use residential and commercial development

Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Developers: Ethiopian Army Foundation and Reportage Properties (UAE)

Site area: 23,000 square metres

Residential: Two towers, 1,086 apartments

Commercial space: Approximately 15,000 square metres

Other features: Recreational facilities and landscaped green areas

Status: Ground-breaking held; construction commencing