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Bole Lemi Industrial Park
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Bole Lemi Industrial Park, located on the eastern outskirts of Addis Ababa, serves as Ethiopia pioneer government-developed industrial zone specifically tailored for export-oriented manufacturing. Officially inaugurated in 2014, the first phase covers approximately 156 hectares of land and has become a vital hub for the textile and garment sectors. The park was designed to attract significant foreign direct investment while creating substantial employment opportunities for the local workforce. It features state-of-the-art infrastructure, including twenty pre-erected factory sheds and specialized waste management systems. International companies from China and South Korea have established their operations here to leverage the favorable investment climate. The second phase of the park has further expanded its capacity to over 350 hectares, integrating advanced logistics and energy solutions. As a cornerstone of the national strategy, Bole Lemi plays a critical role in transforming Ethiopia into a manufacturing powerhouse.
- Location: Ethiopia
- Top sights: Bole Arabsa · roda · Bulbula condominium
- Nearby: Bishoftu (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 27 | 56 | 90 | 89 | 116 | 239 | 246 | 145 | 34 | 16 | 13 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Bole Lemi Industrial Park is Ethiopia's first state-developed industrial park and a hub for leather and textile processing in Addis Ababa. It plays a key role in the country's industrialization and job creation.
Visiting
The industrial park is typically not open to the public for security and production reasons. Some companies, however, offer factory tours by prior appointment, especially for professional visitors and students.
Where to view it
From the main Bole Road, there is a good view of the large factory halls and park infrastructure. A small bridge over the nearby river provides an elevated perspective of the facility.
Local products
The park primarily produces leather goods such as shoes, bags, and jackets, as well as textiles like clothing and fabrics for export. Visitors cannot buy these products directly in the park, but in Addis Ababa stores.
Active season
The industrial park operates year-round, with production most intense on weekdays from Monday to Friday. Peak capacity is often reached in the months leading up to major export deadlines.
Nearby
A visit to the industrial park can be combined with exploring the nearby Bole district, known for its restaurants and shopping. Addis Ababa Airport is only a few kilometers away.
Geography
Facts
- Inaugurated in 2014.
- Total size exceeding 350 hectares.
- Features 20 factory sheds in Phase one.
- Created more than 18,000 jobs.
- First state-owned industrial park in Ethiopia.
- Located near the capital, Addis Ababa.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Bole Lemi Industrial Park (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Bole Lemi Industrial Park?
Large industrial park east of Addis Ababa for textile, leather and processing industry. One of the key export centers.
Can tourists visit the Industrial Park?
Possible with authorization and organized tour. Contact administration in advance.
What is Bole Lemi known for?
Textile and leather exports to international brands. Employs over 50,000 workers.
Best time for a visit?
November to March with pleasant temperatures. Tours 9-17.
Infrastructure around Bole Lemi?
Hotels, restaurants and transport in Addis Ababa. Park is approximately 20 km from city center.
Bole Lemi Industrial Park: where is it located?
Bole Lemi Industrial Park is located in Ethiopia.
Bole Lemi Industrial Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bole Arabsa, roda, Bulbula condominium.
Bole Lemi Industrial Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Bole Lemi Industrial Park: why is it worth visiting?
Bole Lemi Industrial Park, located on the eastern outskirts of Addis Ababa, serves as Ethiopia pioneer government-developed industrial zone specifically tailored for export-oriented manufacturing.
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Medhane Alem Cathedral
An Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo cathedral in the Bole district, known for its massive size and architecture.
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Meskel Square
The main public square in Addis Ababa, famously used for public gatherings and the annual Meskel festival.
Red Terror Martyrs' Memorial Museum
A museum dedicated to the victims of the Derg regime's Red Terror campaign in the late 1970s.
Adey Abeba Stadium
A modern, large-capacity stadium constructed to host major international sporting events in Ethiopia.
Jubilee Palace
Built to mark Emperor Haile Selassie's Silver Jubilee, it now serves as the official residence of the President.
Addis Ababa Stadium
A multi-purpose stadium in the heart of Addis Ababa, serving as a major venue for football matches and athletic events.
Holy Trinity Cathedral
A highly ornate Orthodox cathedral that serves as the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
AU Headquarters
The modern complex serving as the headquarters for the African Union, featuring a prominent skyscraper.
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Menelik II's Imperial Palace
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Sheger Park Addis
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Unity Park Addis
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