President Sahle-Work calls for close attention to prevent illegal exploitation, trafficking of mines

Addis Ababa, November 10, 2022 (FBC) – The FDRE President, Sahle-Work Zewde said that the International Mines and Technology Expo (MINTEX) is a platform to promote Ethiopia’s mineral wealth to the international market.

According to President Sahle-Work, there are still works to be undertaken to promote Ethiopia’s huge mines resource.

MINTEX was opened at the Millennium Hall, in Addis Ababa, in the presence of President Sahle-Work Zewde, Minister of Mines and Petroleum, Takele Uma, Ministers, Heads of Regional States and invited guests.

During her opening remarks, President Sahle-Work stated that the expo will definitely enable international investors, including Ethiopians, to learn the mineral wealth of Ethiopia.

The President said that the sector is vulnerable to illegal exploitation and trafficking. Hence, it needs a close attention to prevent the draining of this national resource.

He said, “Mining is limited in nature, so if we prioritize environmental safety and protection, the sector can be a way out to the people from poverty.”

On his part, the Minister of Mines and Petroleum, Takele Uma, said that Ethiopia currently earns only about 1 percent from minerals.

He pointed out that work is being done to increase this economic value to 17 percent in the next 10 to 15 years.

The expo is scheduled to continue from today until November 12, 2022.