Ethiopia-Djibouti railway wins acclaim for facilitating int’l trade

Published: October 11,2024

The Ethiopian government has honored the Chinese-built Ethiopia-Djibouti railway for its “great contribution” to facilitating Ethiopia’s growing export-import trade.

The Ethio-Djibouti Standard Gauge Railway Share Company (EDR) said in a recent statement that the recognition by the Ethiopian Ministry of Transport and Logistics manifests the 752-km railway’s fast-growing contribution to the socio-economic development of the two countries.

The EDR said the recognition will serve as “a mandate given to us to further develop the logistics services provided by the Ethiopia-Djibouti railway.”

“We assure that we are committed to taking the sector to the desired heights by consolidating our existing manpower and expertise,” it added.

Takele Uma, chief executive officer (CEO) of the EDR emphasized the importance of logistics in seamlessly connecting the supply chain’s first and last miles, covering aspects from port operations to customs clearance.

“The Ethiopia-Djibouti railway is unveiling new opportunities to enhance its operational capabilities and efficiency. By doing so, it aims to become more competitive both regionally and globally, offering improved logistics solutions for businesses and customers alike,” the CEO said.

In May, the Chinese contractors of the Ethiopia-Djibouti railway officially handed over its management and operation to Ethiopia and Djibouti after six years of successful operation.

Official data reveal that the railway had transported 680,000 passengers and 9.5 million metric tons of cargo by May 2024, with an average annual transportation revenue increase of 39 percent over the past six years.

Since its inauguration in 2018, the railway has continued to develop its freight market and expand its service offerings, including high-quality services such as cold-chain transportation, commuter trains for villagers, and special trains for automobile transportation. 

Xinhua