Ethiopia today is a study in startling contrasts.

On the one hand, it is struggling with persistent poverty —the per capita GDP is only $936 (PPP $2,432)—and its economy remains heavily dependent on agriculture. Over the past year and a half, the devastating conflict in the north has inflicted a severe toll on the entire country.

On the other hand, Ethiopia is also a country of enormous potential. Ethiopia’s assets include:

Until very recently, an economy with some of the highest growth rates in the world
Compelling demographics—its population of over 114 million is the second largest on the continent, and the median age is just 19
A geopolitically significant location in the Horn of Africa
Leadership that recognizes the need for education reform and is supportive of Haile-Manas Academy as a model school

Building on Rock- Solid Foundations

Ethiopia has always held great promise. With a rich history as an independent nation that can be traced back to the 8th century BC, it is a continental and regional leader that is home to the African Union. Its population comprises a great diversity of peoples, cultures and religions, and it has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the continent, including the stone obelisks of Axum, the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the historic walled city of Harar and the cultural landscapes of Konso.

Looking Ahead

Taken together, Ethiopia’s current economic and demographic trends, its regional significance and its history create compelling conditions for investment across sectors. This is why we are in Ethiopia now, and why Ethiopia is ready to make the most of a school like HMA now.

We see limitless opportunity ahead. We are motivated by the chance to educate Ethiopia’s future leaders and most engaged and impactful citizens, and to help transform the education available to all Ethiopian students.

The time is right for long-term investment in this important African country. Opportunity lies where untapped potential exists.