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Ethiopia: Ministry Finalizing First-Ever Petroleum Policy

petroleum-meetingThe Ethiopian Ministry of Mines and Petroleum said it is finalizing a first-ever petroleum policy that will be used for the coming fifteen years. Beginning with exploration of petroleum, to importing petroleum and its consumption at the national level, the policy puts forward general directions.

The draft of the policy have been discussed upon with representatives of civic societies and political parties, at a half-day consultative meeting. It was pointed out that the consultative meeting has been instrumental in creating clarity regarding the policy under finalization.

Merga Kenea, Ethiopian Extractive Industry Transparent Initiative Head, remarked that the policy is prepared to lead the sector with “clear directives”. It will also help investors and companies that have interest to engage in petroleum sector, he added.

Mr. Merga further noted that the petroleum policy will serve as “a tool that can show us our futurity, the place and the position where we will be in the coming years with regard to our petroleum initiative.”

Takele Worqeye, a policy consultant present during the consultative meeting, pointing out the negative effect the lack of such a policy has had, noted for the same reason, the ministry is “striving” to have the policy “set the way for full realization of the [petroleum] proclamation.”

The Ministry has expressed a pledge that inputs from the consultative meeting will be used as input as further discussion with stakeholders of the industry ensue.


Sources: ENA, Ministry of Mines and Petroleum Facebook Page

Image Source: Ministry of Mines and Petroleum Facebook Page