ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (BG) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX) on Friday, marking a significant milestone in the modernization of the country’s financial sector.

“In a historic milestone for our economic and financial landscape, we have officially rung the bell to launch the Ethiopian Securities Exchange – the first stock exchange for our country,” Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed posted on X, formerly Twitter.

The ESX is poised to create a transparent marketplace for securities trading, enhancing access to long-term financing and driving investment-led growth under the Home-Grown Economic Reform II (HGER II).

The exchange aims to improve savings mobilization, corporate governance, and investor protection while fostering financial inclusion across the public and private sectors.

The ESX offers diverse financial products for businesses, government entities, and institutions operating across three market segments—equity market, fixed income market, and money market.

Calls for Investment

Its pilot money market platform has already facilitated transactions exceeding 100 billion Ethiopian birr ($800 million), underscoring its potential to strengthen Ethiopia’s financial system and mobilize capital for sustainable economic development, according to the Office of the Prime Minister of Ethiopia.

“Invest in Ethiopia — a fast-growing economy with immense potential and a dynamic trajectory toward prosperity,” Abiy added.

In December 2024, Ethiopia officially opened its banking sector to foreign investors, marking a pivotal step in the country’s economic liberalization efforts under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

As Africa’s second-most populous nation and one of the continent’s fastest-growing economies, Ethiopia presents a promising market for international banks and investors.

The Horn of Africa nation’s commitment to financial reforms signals a new era of economic transformation and global integration.