The first expressway in Ethiopia, Addis Ababa – Adama Expressway, was opened for traffic on Sunday, September 14, 2014.

57 percent of the toll’s construction cost was covered by the Chinese Exim-Bank while the rest was covered by the Ethiopian government.

The toll has six lanes on two sides and it is 84.7 kilometers long. It is said the expressway reduces the trek from the capital city to Adama to 45 minutes.

During the occasion the Oromia State President, Mukatar Kedir, and Transport Minister, Workeneh Gebeyehu, were present accompanied by other government officials.

Mukatar on the occasion noted, "The Expressway creates a huge opportunity for all economic actors creating smooth, safe and swift movement for trade thereby reducing poverty." He furthered called upon users and the community residing around the toll to make responsible use and take care of the road.

Workeneh on his part said in order to improve the life of public and to bring about an all encompassing development in the nation, such expressways would ensure the possibilities of making significant progress in the fast growing economy.

He furthered, as the road links the Western and Southern part Ethiopia to the nation’s center, it would have immense contribution to the economy. The Expressway helps to ease traffic jam problem that was prevalent on the old road and with no environmental pollution,” he added.

Ethiopian Toll Ways Enterprise’s General Manager, Hiwot Mosisa, commented the road will have its own importance to build the nation's image, quantify investment choices and develop the economy.

According to the General Manager, the service fee is targeted to pay back the cost of construction and save for the maintenance cost. In addition to this, the fee is also aimed at funding similar projects that will be constructed in the future.

Source: Ethiopian Herald