Ethiopia is accelerating its e-mobility strategy through a strengthened partnership with Nordic stakeholders. The government confirmed progress ahead of the 2026 Nordic-Africa EV Summit in Addis Ababa.
Bareo Hassen, State Minister of Transport and Logistics, shared the update following the summit’s official kickoff webinar. The session outlined Ethiopia’s transition from policy development to digital implementation in the transport sector.
Officials described the partnership with Nordic countries as central to building a climate-resilient transport system. They also highlighted the need for increased private sector investment. The initiative has attracted support from diplomatic and business leaders. H.E. Stian Christensen, Ambassador of Norway to Ethiopia, reaffirmed Norway’s commitment to green cooperation.
The Norwegian-African Business Association is mobilising Norwegian private sector participation. Into Africa continues to facilitate investment dialogue and trade engagement.
Technical coordination involves the Eezy Power team and Nordic EV Summit organisers. The Africa E-Mobility Alliance also contributed expertise on transport decarbonisation.
The Nordic-Africa EV Summit will take place in Addis Ababa in September 2026. Ethiopia aims to position the event as a gateway for Nordic technology and global investment. The summit will showcase Ethiopia’s local assembly of electric vans and heavy-duty trucks. Officials expect it to attract international manufacturers and financiers.
Ethiopia drew global attention in 2024 after banning the import of internal combustion engine vehicles. The policy supports the country’s clean transport transition.
Authorities are expanding the national EV charging network. They are also promoting Non-Motorized Transport to improve urban mobility. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has framed electric mobility as both an environmental priority and an economic opportunity.
With preparations underway for the 2026 summit, Ethiopia continues to strengthen partnerships that support its ambition to lead Africa’s sustainable transport transformation.
