Ethiopia revives plans for sub-saharan Africa’s tallest building

Ethiopia is moving forward with its ambitious project to construct what will be the tallest building in sub-Saharan Africa.
The monumental 62-story headquarters for Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP), estimated to cost $445 million, was initially proposed in 2023 but faced various financial challenges that stalled progress. With renewed vigor, the bidding process has recently been reopened for contractors, marking a significant step toward realizing this landmark development.
The proposed tower aims to redefine the Addis Ababa skyline and become a symbol of Ethiopia’s rapid economic growth and modernization. The project is slated to occupy a prime location on a 2.8-hectare site within the Kirkos district, close to the city’s emerging central business district. This strategic positioning not only highlights the importance of the building but also aligns with urban development plans that cater to a growing population and increasing business activity in the capital.
Renowned Beirut-based engineering and architectural consultancy, Dar Al-Handasah, has been tasked with the design of the tower. The firm, known for its large-scale projects and expertise, is also set to oversee the procurement and construction phases of the endeavor, ensuring that the project adheres to international standards and timelines.
The proposed height of the structure is 327.5 meters, significantly overshadowing the current tallest building in the region, the 234-meter Leonardo tower located in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The ambitious design will encompass a total floor area of 197,800 square meters, allowing for a variety of functions and amenities. Beyond providing office spaces for EEP and potentially other tenants, the tower’s plans include a rooftop sky garden and a restaurant, which are intended to enhance the work atmosphere and create a vibrant social space within the bustling urban environment. This integration of leisure and work reflects a modern approach to architectural design and urban planning, catering to a diverse array of needs for its occupants.
As part of the renewed initiative, EEP has initiated a competitive bidding process to attract both local and international contractors eager to participate in this landmark project. Interested parties are required to meet rigorous standards to qualify for submission. Contractors must demonstrate at least ten years of experience in the construction sector and provide evidence of having completed a minimum of three significant contracts, each valued at $370 million or more. This emphasis on experience and proven capability aims to ensure that only qualified bidders are considered, reflecting the project’s high standards and expectations.
The construction process will be executed under an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) model, which streamlines the project timeline and enhances accountability by integrating design and construction responsibilities. With an anticipated completion schedule of four years, stakeholders are optimistic that the project can be realized within a tight timeframe.
Ethiopia’s decision to revive the construction of the tallest building in sub-Saharan Africa aligns with the country’s broader goals of infrastructural development and economic growth. As the nation continues to experience rapid urbanization and industrialization, such landmark projects serve as both a catalyst for investment and a beacon of progress. They symbolize Ethiopia’s aspirations to position itself as a leader in the region, not only in terms of economic development but also as a hub for innovation and sustainability.
This ambitious construction project is expected to create thousands of jobs, both directly through the construction phase and indirectly through various sectors that will benefit from the building’s operation upon completion. Local suppliers and businesses stand to gain from increased demand for materials and services, fostering overall economic development in the region.