African delegates hail landmark projects in Addis Ababa as models for the continent

Addis Ababa, April 22, 2025 (FMC) — Officials from The Welding Federation of Africa (TWF-Africa), in Addis Ababa for their annual conference, have praised Ethiopia’s capital for its transformative development projects, calling them exemplary models for the rest of the continent.

The delegation, comprising representatives from across Africa, expressed admiration for the city’s rapid progress, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and conference tourism. Executive Director Ayo Adeniyi highlighted the impressive scope of Addis Ababa’s development and the welcoming spirit of its people.

“I didn’t expect to see what I saw in Addis Ababa,” said Adeniyi. “The Adwa Victory Memorial Museum is a remarkable facility that beautifully showcases Ethiopian history. It reflects a shared African legacy that can inspire collective growth.”

He also commended the Addis International Convention and Exhibition Center for its massive scale, artistic design, and integration with a thousand-room hotel, calling the project “magical” and “a facility that makes you want to stay.”

“The convention center is finely designed, blending functionality with cultural beauty. It’s a model of what African nations can achieve,” he noted.

TWF-Africa President Hamed Abdelaleem echoed these views, pointing to the visible progress across the city. “Even though Ethiopia is not among the wealthiest nations, development is tangible everywhere you go in Addis Ababa,” he observed.

The delegates emphasized that such projects position Ethiopia — and particularly its capital — as a rising hub for major continental gatherings and long-term cooperation.

Confidence Lekoane, Acting Executive Director of the South African Institute of Welding (SAIW), also praised Ethiopia’s efforts. As reported by ENA, she urged African countries to support Ethiopia in its development ambitions. “Africa must stand firmly behind Ethiopia,” she said. “It is poised to become a key destination for hosting international conferences.”

The delegation’s remarks underscore growing recognition of Ethiopia’s bold investments in national heritage, modern infrastructure, and regional leadership — elements that are increasingly positioning Addis Ababa as a symbol of pan-African potential.