Addis Ababa, August 28, 2025 — Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has entered into a landmark $2.5 billion agreement with the Ethiopian government to establish one of the world’s largest fertilizer plants, a project expected to reshape agricultural production and accelerate industrial growth on the continent.
The deal, signed in Addis Ababa, will see Dangote Group own 60% of the plant, while Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH) retains the remaining 40%. The massive facility will be sited in Ethiopia’s eastern Somali region and is designed to strengthen food security, boost export capacity, and reduce reliance on imported fertilizer.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dangote described the project as a bold step toward Africa’s economic self-reliance, stressing that the plant would not only serve Ethiopia but also supply other African countries. Ethiopian officials hailed the initiative as a game-changer that will create thousands of jobs, enhance agricultural productivity, and drive economic growth.
Industry watchers note that the project aligns with the African Union’s long-term goal of building regional value chains and reducing dependence on foreign markets.
This comes as Dangote Industries continues to expand its continental footprint, following the success of its cement empire and the $20 billion Dangote Refinery in Nigeria.
