Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) inaugurated the Tulu Arara model village, presenting it as part of Ethiopia’s shift from charity-led initiatives toward a more structured and sustainable development approach.

The project, attended by First Lady Zinash Tayachew and senior government officials, brings together residential housing and livelihood support within a single development framework.

In a message shared on his social media platforms, Abiy said the model village represents an upgrade of the rainy-season volunteer and charity programme, transforming it into a more organised development intervention.

The Tulu Arara village covers 7,000 square metres and comprises standard housing units, each built with five rooms, including two bedrooms. The development is designed to provide dignified and comfortable housing for 150 citizens at household level.

The site is supported by core infrastructure, including internal roads, electricity and solar power systems, recreational and fitness facilities, and green development features.

Abiy said the project integrates housing with income-generating activities through a production and market value chain system. The model combines dairy cattle and poultry farming with backyard gardening, supported by a commercial chain extending to market outlets.

He said the initiative is intended not only to address housing needs, but also to promote long-term economic empowerment and improved living standards for beneficiaries.