This archive report was first published on 10 July 2019.
On July 8, 2019, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced a plan to send 50,000 workers to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of efforts to reduce unemployment in Ethiopia and meet the growing job demands of its people.
According to Abiy, the initiative is one of several short-term measures to address unemployment, and the workers will receive training in various sectors, including driving and nursing, before being sent abroad.
Under the deal, 50,000 workers will be sent to the UAE in the 2019/2020 fiscal year, with discussions underway to send 200,000 over the next three years.
Abiy stated that the workers would earn higher wages and 'boost their capacity' through this opportunity.
Similar agreements are being discussed with Japan and European nations, with the aim of creating a young, skilled workforce that can aid Africa's fastest-growing economy.
The UAE has been actively seeking closer ties with countries in the Horn of Africa, including mediating a historic peace accord between Ethiopia and Eritrea in 2018.
As part of its efforts to expand its influence in the region, the UAE has pledged to invest $3 billion in aid and investment in Ethiopia.
