Ethiopian Investment Holdings has signed a $26 million agreement with CCI Global, one of Africa's largest business process outsourcing operators, to develop a purpose-built outsourcing hub in Addis Ababa. The deal represents one of the most significant foreign-linked investments in Ethiopia's digital services sector and reflects the government's ambition to position the country as a competitive player in the global outsourcing economy.
The first phase involves constructing a modern facility with 3,000 seats designed to international standards, featuring high-speed connectivity, uninterrupted power supply, and contemporary amenities. Ethiopian architect Rahel Shawl is leading the design, while Elmi Olindo Contractors Plc will handle construction. CCI Global, which employs over 15,000 people globally and serves more than 80 international clients, will operate the facility and has identified Ethiopia as a strategic hub for serving clients across North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
The project is expected to generate approximately 3,000 direct jobs initially, with employment projected to scale to 10,000 positions as the center moves to round-the-clock, three-shift operations. Brook Taye, CEO of Ethiopian Investment Holdings, said the agreement "represents an important step in translating Ethiopia's potential in the global BPO market into tangible investment, infrastructure, and employment opportunities." He noted that EIH is directing capital toward sectors capable of generating foreign exchange and integrating Ethiopia into global value chains. Mark Chana, Global Chief Operating Officer at CCI Global, highlighted Ethiopia's "exceptional talent and a government that understands the opportunity this sector represents."
Ethiopia's outsourcing industry has grown rapidly from a low base. Sector revenue surged from $34 million in 2021 to approximately $50 million in 2025, with 25 registered firms employing around 15,000 workers, up from 3,350 three years earlier. According to projections cited by Outsource Accelerator, the market is forecast to grow at 11.54 percent annually, reaching $845.7 million by 2030.
The project was formally unveiled during Elevate Africa 2026, a three-day forum held in Addis Ababa in early March. The gathering, convened by CCI Global in collaboration with Ethiopian Investment Holdings and MMCY Tech, brought together more than 170 senior leaders from government, global enterprises, and investment firms to connect global buyers with emerging outsourcing destinations across Africa.