Petition to the Federal Government of Ethiopia

Request for the Establishment of Harari Airport in Harar.

Assalamu Alaykum,

We, the undersigned Harari diaspora and concerned citizens, write to the Federal Government of Ethiopia with deep urgency regarding the long-overdue establishment of an airport in Harar.

Harar, recognized globally as a UNESCO World Heritage City and celebrated as a historic and cultural center of Ethiopia, remains disconnected from the modern air transport infrastructure that is vital for economic growth, trade, tourism, and social development. This lack of an airport has limited opportunities for the people of Harar, hindered investment, and made it difficult for Ethiopians and international visitors to access one of the country’s most treasured cities.

We believe that the construction of Imam Ahmed Harar Airport is not only a matter of regional equity but also a national priority that will:

• Stimulate economic development through increased trade, commerce, and tourism.
• Create jobs and opportunities for the local population.
• Strengthen cultural and historical preservation by making Harar more accessible to the world.
• Improve social services by facilitating access to healthcare, education, and mobility for residents.
• Enhance Ethiopia’s global image by showcasing Harar as a gateway for international tourism and heritage.

Therefore, we petition the Federal Government of Ethiopia to:

• Immediately allocate a budget for the planning and construction of Imam Ahmed Airport.
• Prioritize this project in the national infrastructure agenda, recognizing its overdue importance.
• Engage Ethiopian Airlines, international partners, and private investors to support this project with resources and technical expertise.
• Provide a clear timeline and roadmap for feasibility studies, design, construction, and completion.

This airport will not only serve Harar but also the surrounding regions, strengthening Ethiopia’s unity and shared prosperity. We, the Harari people and our partners, are ready to advocate, support, and contribute toward this national project.

Respectfully submitted,

On behalf of Harari diaspora