MIDROC Investment Group has announced an ambitious plan to develop 10 Marriott-branded hotels throughout Ethiopia, marking a significant expansion in the country’s hospitality sector. The Chief Executive Officer of the group, Ato Jemal Ahmed, unveiled the project during the “Invest Ethiopia 2026” forum. This initiative represents a major strategic move to enhance Ethiopia’s tourism infrastructure and premium lodging capacity.
The large-scale project is being undertaken in partnership with Marriott International, one of the world’s leading hotel operators. To ensure the financial and developmental viability of the venture, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) is providing essential support during the initial stages. This collaboration highlights the growing interest of international financial institutions in Ethiopia’s expanding service industry.
Beyond the hospitality sector, CEO Jemal Ahmed highlighted MIDROC’s diverse investment portfolio, which continues to drive economic growth in several key areas. The group is currently managing an extensive agricultural project involving 25,000 hectares of coffee development. Additionally, the company is actively engaged in large-scale operations within the mining sector, further solidifying its role as a cornerstone of the national economy.
The CEO also addressed the challenges faced by the group’s agricultural ventures, specifically the rice development projects in the Gambella region. These operations have encountered significant setbacks due to irregular rainfall patterns and various logistical hurdles. Despite these environmental and operational difficulties, the company remains committed to the project’s success and long-term viability.
To overcome these obstacles, MIDROC plans to integrate modern technology and specialized machinery into its farming operations. By shifting toward more advanced agricultural techniques, the group aims to mitigate the impact of climate variability and improve overall productivity. This technological transition is expected to revitalize the stalled rice projects and ensure food security goals are met.
The announcement at the “Invest Ethiopia 2026” forum serves as a strong signal of private sector confidence in the country’s investment climate. As MIDROC expands its reach from luxury hotels to large-scale commodity production, the group’s activities are expected to create numerous job opportunities and attract further foreign direct investment.