Addis Ababa, June 5, 2025 (FMC) – High-level officials from Kenya and Ethiopia gathered today in Addis Ababa to advance the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP), a key initiative aimed at boosting infrastructure, trade, and digital connectivity across the region.
Ethiopian Finance Minister Ahmed Shide highlighted the importance of these efforts, stating, “The proposed bridges at Suftu and Rhamu are more than just infrastructure—they embody our joint commitment to economic growth, cross-border trade, and job creation.”
He also emphasized the importance of establishing a One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at Rhamu to streamline customs procedures and promote efficiency.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, John Mbadi, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, remarking, “I am pleased to participate in this vital mission under the HoAGDP.”
Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to the project, which is supported by 750 million USD from the World Bank and targeted for completion by June 2028.
Ethiopia’s Finance Minister reaffirmed Ethiopia’s full commitment, stating, “To our Kenyan counterparts: Ethiopia remains fully committed to this partnership. The work we undertake today will help shape a more connected, prosperous, and resilient future for both our nations and the wider Horn of Africa region.”
He called for “collaboration, purpose, and determination—because together, we are not just building infrastructure; we are building the future.”
On digital connectivity, the Minister emphasized the vast opportunities ahead, noting, “We recognize the potential of extending high-capacity fiber optic infrastructure to Ethiopia, with a possible link to Djibouti. This digital backbone will boost trade, improve government services, and connect our people more efficiently.”
The Executive Secretary of IGAD Workineh Gebeyehu added that digital transformation is critical, pointing out that “only 23% of the Mandera Triangle currently has reliable internet access,” and stressed that the project supports ICT use for revenue collection, streamlined customs processes, and enhanced transparency.
Discussions focused on infrastructure developments, including bridge construction, Trade Facilitation Centers, and the operationalization of the OSBP—whether unilaterally or jointly.
The leaders agreed on conducting site visits for optimal locations, implementing joint inspections during construction, and preparing for the official launch of these projects.
Kenya committed to financing the bridge works, with joint mechanisms in place to ensure quality control.
Ethiopia’s Finance Minister emphasized the human benefits, stating, “The true beneficiaries are the communities along the border—the pastoralists, traders, youth, and families who will gain better access and opportunities.”
The Executive Secretary of IGAD highlighted that these projects could reduce healthcare access distances by 50%, potentially saving many lives annually.
Concluding the meeting, both nations expressed a renewed commitment to building a more connected, prosperous, and resilient Horn of Africa, emphasizing that this partnership will foster regional stability and inclusive development.