(E) Development so far

• Life expectancy of 63 is well below that of the world average of 72
• Long history of civil war and political unrest. However, the country has been relatively stable in recent years.
• As healthcare improves, death rates decline, life expectancy increases. This is causing the population to expand and a need for even more resources.
• Ethiopia is at Stage 2 of the Rostow model (pre-conditions for take-off). This is because, although it is still a traditional society, there are gradual improvements to health care, education and technology. There is commercial agriculture and mining, boosted by Chinese and US investment. Its reliance on exporting primary products and lack of industry means it is not ‘taking off’ (stage 3) though.