Alemayehu Ketema General Contractor has issued a press statement addressing recent media reports on the Federal Auditor General’s performance audit findings regarding the Welmel Irrigation Project and the Chelchel Dam and Irrigation Development Project.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — July 16, 2026.
Alemayehu Ketema General Contractor addressed allegations from the Federal Auditor General’s performance audit on the Welmel Irrigation Project and the Chelchel Dam and Appurtenant Structures Construction Project. The company stated that contract amendments for price adjustments followed directives from the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Public Procurement and Property Authority.
On the Welmel project, the firm noted diesel prices rose from ETB 20.91 to ETB 107.93 per litre, a 416.16 percent increase. Time extensions were granted due to design revisions, unforeseen geological conditions, material shortages, and employer decisions, with the project completed within the approved period.
The company rejected claims about ETB 132 million spent on three luxury vehicles and seven field vehicles valued at ETB 75 million. It clarified that vehicles were procured for employer supervision, registered under the project, and transferred to government ownership after completion. AKGC said it has not yet received the full audit report.
