Gov’t set to build construction sector capacity

Addis Ababa, August 8 (WIC) - Urban Development and Construction Minister Mekuria Haile said that the government has attached due attention to build the capacity of the construction industry to create considerable jobs and make urban areas habitable for their residents.

Speaking at the 4th Urban and Construction Development Conference held in Mekelle town Sunday, Mekuria said the government is working to make towns habitable for the residents having standardized facilities.

He said the government is carrying out wide-ranging activities to ensure good governance and fair resource distribution in towns besides creating considerable jobs.

Mekuria said some three million jobs would be created in the Growth and Transformation Plan, adding 1.1 million people have got jobs last budget year. 

The construction of 300,000 residential houses has already been launched, he said, and added 40/60 saving programme has also been launched for low income families.   

The Minister also said sugar projects in South Omo, Tana Beles, Welkait, Kessem and Finchaa are progressing according to schedule.

He said over 3.8 billion birr worth domestic market link has been created for 481,294 Micro-and Small-Enterprises (MSEs) operators.

The MSEs have also obtained 22 million US dollars from market link created with exporters.   

The conference is aimed at recognizing the best performances of towns last budget year, addressing problems encountered by them and coordinating performances in states.