Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading carrier, is embarking on an ambitious project to construct a state-of-the-art airport in Bishoftu, approximately 39 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa. This bold move is part of the airline’s strategy to expand its operations and cement its position as a global aviation leader. However, the project has sparked significant discontent among local farmers in the Oromia region, who are concerned about land compensation and resettlement plans.
Ethiopian Airlines has long been a symbol of pride and economic strength for the country, consistently ranking among the best airlines in the world. With a goal to quadruple passenger traffic to 100 million travelers annually by 2035, the airline’s vision hinges on developing a mega-hub to complement its existing facilities at Bole International Airport.
The planned Bishoftu airport, spread across 35 square kilometers, is expected to feature cutting-edge infrastructure, including multiple runways and advanced cargo-handling capabilities. By positioning itself as a key transit hub between Africa, Asia, and Europe, Ethiopian Airlines aims to capture a larger share of global aviation traffic. This vision aligns with Ethiopia’s broader development strategy, which seeks to boost tourism, trade, and foreign direct investment.
Despite the potential economic benefits, the airport project has met with resistance from local farmers in the Oromia region. Many of these farmers rely on their land for subsistence farming, which has been their livelihood for generations. The land acquisition process, spearheaded by the Ethiopian government, has left many feeling marginalized and inadequately compensated.
Reports suggest that the compensation offered to farmers falls far short of the market value of their land. Moreover, concerns about resettlement have further fueled discontent. Farmers claim that authorities have not provided clear plans for relocation or support to help them transition to new livelihoods.
“I’ve cultivated this land for decades. It’s not just my home; it’s my history and my family’s future,” lamented one farmer during a local meeting to discuss the project.
The controversy surrounding the Bishoftu airport project highlights the challenges of balancing national development with local interests. While the airport promises economic growth and increased connectivity, the social cost of displacing communities cannot be ignored.
Experts argue that transparent and fair compensation processes are essential to avoid long-term resentment and resistance. Public engagement, inclusive planning, and providing alternative livelihoods for displaced farmers could help bridge the divide.
Ethiopian Airlines and the Ethiopian government have a unique opportunity to set a precedent for responsible development. By addressing the concerns of the Oromia farmers and ensuring their voices are heard, they can turn this project into a model of inclusive growth.
The Bishoftu airport project is more than just a transportation hub it’s a test of Ethiopia’s ability to balance its ambitions with the rights and needs of its people. As the project takes flight, the world will be watching to see if Ethiopia can soar to new heights while keeping its communities grounded in fairness and equity.
