Ethiopia Seeks to Expand Railway Corridors to Power Trade and Regional Influence

Addis Ababa, August 2, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to modernizing and expanding the nation’s railway infrastructure as a strategic priority in transforming Ethiopia into a leading regional transport and logistics hub.

Speaking at the annual performance review of the Ethio-Djibouti Railway Transport Share Company, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen commemorated the 130th anniversary of the original Ethiopian-Djibouti Railway, highlighting its profound role in connecting Ethiopia to the world and laying the foundation for national modernization.

“Today, we proudly celebrate 130 years since the inauguration of the Ethiopian-Djibouti Railway—a transformative project born from the spirit of the Victory of Adwa,” he said. “This railway has always been more than steel and transport—it is a profound symbol of Ethiopia’s ambition to lead, innovate, and be seen on the world stage.”

Temesgen emphasized the government’s steadfast commitment to completing what has been started. “Our national principle is clear: we do not start what we will not finish,” he said. “This ethos has allowed us to overcome a legacy of stalled initiatives and usher in a new era of persistence and achievement.”

Once regarded as a burden of national debt, the Ethio-Djibouti Railway has now become a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s economy, powering trade, driving national revenue, and playing a central role in the country’s transport and logistics infrastructure.

“This moment marks the beginning of a new chapter,” Temesgen said. “Our forebears embraced modernity when they built Africa’s first railway line. Now it is our responsibility—to dream big, build boldly, and see through what we begin. No longer just telling history, we are actively making it.”

The Deputy Prime Minister called for national unity and unwavering commitment to expand Ethiopia’s railway infrastructure as a vital pillar of the country’s prosperity journey. He expressed sincere thanks to the leaders and professionals of the Ethio-Djibouti Railway Share Company for their dedication and perseverance.

Reflecting on the original railway blueprint, Temesgen recalled plans to extend rail lines from Djibouti to Harar, Addis Ababa, Entoto, Jimma, and the White Nile. He acknowledged that many of these segments remain unfinished but assured the public that the government is committed to completing these projects.

Since the re-launch of the railway under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, the project initially faced significant operational challenges, including financial constraints, salary delays, and service inefficiencies. However, meaningful progress has been achieved through recruitment of skilled professionals, modernization efforts, and enhanced joint management between Ethiopia and Djibouti.

Engineer Takele Uma, CEO of the Ethio-Djibouti Railway Transport Share Company, described the railway as a “prosperity line” connecting Ethiopia to international markets and emphasized its deep historical significance as a symbol of Ethiopian-Djiboutian brotherhood.

He announced the launch of a new three-year strategic plan aimed at boosting operational performance, increasing revenue, and repaying infrastructure investments through sustainable growth.

“The railway today carries not only goods but also Ethiopia’s hopes and long-term vision,” Takele said.

The event was attended by senior government officials, including State Minister of Transport and Logistics Denge Boru, highlighting the government’s high-level commitment to Ethiopia’s railway modernization agenda.