Ethiopia's Ministry of Urban Development and Infrastructure announced that it plans to build 4.4 million urban houses as it embarks on the implementation of its ten year perspective plan. The Ministry also said it plans to see up to 2.8 million rural houses built.

Chaltu Sani, Ethiopia's Minister of Urban Development and Infrastructure, said the plan will be implemented under an umbrella strategy dubbed "Housing Development Strategy", which shall also enhance the involvement of the private sector in the effort.

Learning from past experience, a structural shift will be implemented, aiming to have the private sector take "the lion's share" in the building of houses, Ms. Chaltu noted.

Consequently, the Minister said, the plan aims to have the private sector build 80 percent of the 4.4 million urban houses.

The plan is said to analyze potentials and opportunities that lie with the middle and high income members of the society in addressing housing problems, as well as resolve the demand-supply gap for all members of the society.

Source: FBC (Amharic)