​EIH, CCI Global sign $26 million deal to develop Ethiopia’s BPO industry

Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH) has signed a landmark agreement with CCI Global, one of Africa’s largest business process outsourcing (BPO) operators, to develop a purpose-built outsourcing hub in the capital.

Valued at approximately $26 million, the deal represents one of the most significant foreign-linked investments in Ethiopia’s digital services sector to date and signals Addis Ababa’s intent to position the country as a competitive player in the global outsourcing economy.

​The first phase of the project entails the construction of a modern G+4 BPO complex in Addis Ababa with a capacity of 3,000 seats. Designed to meet international standards, the facility will feature high-speed connectivity, an uninterrupted power supply, and contemporary amenities intended to maximize workforce productivity and operational scalability.

Renowned Ethiopian architect Rahel Shawl, principal of RAAS Architects, is leading the design, while Elmi Olindo Contractors Plc has been selected to handle construction.

​CCI Global, which employs over 15,000 people globally and serves more than 80 international clients, will act as the anchor operator for the new facility. The company has been expanding its African footprint in recent years and has identified Ethiopia as a strategic hub for serving clients across North America, Europe, and the Middle East.

​The project is expected to deliver a substantial boost to Ethiopia’s labor market and foreign currency reserves. Initial operations will generate approximately 3,000 direct jobs, with employment projected to scale up to 10,000 positions as the center expands into a round-the-clock, three-shift operating model.

​“This agreement represents an important step in translating Ethiopia’s potential in the global BPO market into tangible investment, infrastructure, and employment opportunities,” said Brook Taye, CEO of Ethiopian Investment Holdings.

He noted that EIH is actively directing capital toward sectors capable of generating foreign exchange and integrating Ethiopia into global value chains. “Our partnership with CCI Global demonstrates the potential to build a scalable BPO industry in Ethiopia and create a platform for further international investment.”

​Mark Chana, Global Chief Operating Officer at CCI Global, praised the country’s demographic advantages and institutional support. “Ethiopia offers exceptional talent and a government that understands the opportunity this sector represents,” Chana stated. “This lease reflects our continued commitment to the country, and we are excited about the partnership and what it will mean for our clients and for the people who will work here.”

​The project was formally unveiled during Elevate Africa 2026, a three-day forum held in Addis Ababa in early March. Convened by CCI Global in collaboration with EIH and MMCY Tech, the gathering brought together more than 170 senior leaders from government, global enterprises, and investment firms to connect global buyers with emerging outsourcing destinations across Africa and assess Ethiopia’s readiness for outsourced services.

​Ethiopia’s outsourcing industry has grown rapidly in recent years, albeit from a low base. Sector revenue surged from $34 million in 2021 to approximately $50 million in 2025, with 25 registered firms now employing around 15,000 workers—up from just 3,350 employees three years earlier. According to Statista projections cited by Outsource Accelerator, the market is forecast to grow at 11.54 percent annually, reaching $845.7 million by 2030.