Addis Ababa, March 28, 2025 (FMC) – Addis Ababa has welcomed its first-ever flagship LEGO store, marking a significant milestone for both Ethiopia’s retail landscape and its relationship with Denmark.
The store was inaugurated in a ceremony attended by Royal Danish Ambassador Sune Krogstrup, Ethiopia’s Minister of Women and Social Affairs Ergogie Tesfaye, and representatives from the Ministry of Education.
Speaking exclusively to Fana Media Corporation, Ambassador Krogstrup highlighted the broader significance of LEGO’s arrival in Ethiopia. “This is a milestone for LEGO, and it’s great that Ethiopia has been able to attract a company like LEGO to Addis Ababa,” he noted.
He emphasized LEGO’s core values of creativity and learning, expressing hope that Ethiopian children and adults alike would enjoy what the brand has to offer.
Beyond the commercial aspect, LEGO’s presence in Ethiopia extends into education. The LEGO Foundation, the company’s philanthropic arm, has been actively supporting early childhood education for vulnerable groups, including internally displaced persons and refugees. Through initiatives like the Primary Education in Crisis Activity (PECA)—co-funded by USAID—and collaborations with UNICEF and UNHCR, LEGO has played a role in enhancing access to play-based learning for Ethiopian children.
Ambassador Krogstrup also framed the LEGO store opening within the broader expansion of Danish-Ethiopian cooperation. “Denmark is a long-standing supporter of Ethiopia,” he stated, noting Denmark’s involvement in agriculture, social safety nets, and green transition initiatives.
He revealed that Denmark is set to announce a new country program to expand its engagement in Ethiopia, reinforcing the growing presence of Danish businesses in the country.
With Ethiopia undertaking macroeconomic reforms to attract foreign investment, the Ambassador expressed optimism that more Danish companies would enter the Ethiopian market in the coming years. “It’s always a pleasure to see the Danish footprint grow in Ethiopia,” he said.
The launch of Ethiopia’s first LEGO store not only introduces a globally renowned brand to local consumers but also symbolizes deepening economic and cultural ties between Ethiopia and Denmark.