Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed presided over the launching ceremony for the Merewa-Somodo-Seka and Somodo-Limu Junction road project in Jimma zone of the Oromia region, the Office of the Prime Minister said in a tweet. The launching of the project has also been attended by Dagmawit Moges, Ethiopia's Minister of Transport, Shimeles Abdisa, Deputy Chief of Oromia region, and other government officials.

Built 45 years ago, the road has since then deteriorated making it difficult to utilize, taking up to five hours to travel the 94 kilometers. 

China's TCG Engineering Group will undertake the construction of the project, while White Knight Construction Management consults.

The road which is expected to be completed within the next fours years at a cost of Birr 2.2 billion will cut through Jimma zone and three woredas: Mana, Limmu Kosa, and Limmu Seqa.

Sources: Office of the Prime Minister - Ethiopia (Twitter), FBC

Image Source: Office of the Prime Minister - Ethiopia (Twitter)