Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations (AACCSA) initiated a design study seven years ago to modernize the Addis Ababa Exhibition Center, a cornerstone facility for over 40 years. However, the project remains stalled due to governmental delays and a lack of approval.

AACCSA expressed frustration with the bureaucratic hurdles and inconsistencies that have prevented any of the proposed renovations from moving forward. The Chamber has opted to pursue legal action to address the unresolved issues.

Adding to the tension, AACCSA recently terminated its 18-year contract to manage the Exhibition Center, citing a lack of response from the city administration regarding delayed dividend payments.

Shibeshi Bettemariam, Secretary-General of the Chamber, emphasized their efforts to elevate the Exhibition Center's standing. However, unilateral board appointments by the city administration resulted in a dispute over governance.

While the historic Exhibition Center deteriorates, the government pursues a separate multi-billion birr project for a new trade and fair convention center. This raises questions about the prioritization of resources and the future of the existing facility.

Source: Capital Ethiopia