Ethiopia plans to turn Addis Ababa into Africa’s healthcare hub
Ethiopia is seeking to position Addis Ababa as a leading healthcare hub in Africa, with the government targeting specialised medical services, medical tourism and greater investment in the health sector.
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh announced the ambition while opening the 13th East Africa Healthcare Federation Conference and Exhibition in Addis Ababa. He said Ethiopia wants to expand local production of pharmaceuticals, medical equipment and diagnostic tools, while strengthening public-private partnerships and regional cooperation.
The government also says it is ready to support the establishment of the Africa Healthcare Federation’s continental headquarters in Addis Ababa, which it believes could strengthen the city’s role in healthcare investment, policy dialogue and regional cooperation.
Ethiopia is already investing in specialised healthcare infrastructure. A new 500-bed Lafto Hospital, equipped with technologies including advanced MRI, CT scanning and cardiac-care facilities, is part of efforts to expand access to complex medical treatment locally.
The country’s investment authorities say Ethiopia has significant potential to become a regional healthcare centre, noting that more than 6,000 Ethiopians travel abroad each year for specialised treatment, spending more than $120 million annually. Addis Ababa’s connectivity through Ethiopian Airlines is also seen as an advantage for attracting patients from other African countries.
The ambition, however, comes as Ethiopia continues to face gaps in healthcare infrastructure and specialised services. The country’s investment commission says hospital-bed availability remains low, highlighting the scale of investment required to turn the ambition into a sustainable regional healthcare hub.
For Ethiopia, the strategy is therefore not only about attracting foreign patients. Officials say it is also aimed at reducing dependence on imported medicines and overseas treatment, creating a stronger domestic health industry and making healthcare a driver of economic growth.
