Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway: A Triumph of Cross-Border Cooperation and Local Empowerment

Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway: A Triumph of Cross-Border Cooperation and Local Empowerment

The Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, a pioneering electrified railway connecting the Ethiopian capital to the neighboring country’s port, has made significant strides since its inception. Operated by the Ethiopian-Djibouti Standard Gauge Railway Company, the railway has achieved remarkable transportation figures, reflecting its growing importance in regional trade and connectivity.

Transportation Milestones The railway has successfully transported 680,000 passengers and 9.5 million tons of cargo, with an impressive average annual increase in transportation revenue of 39%. These figures underscore the railway’s role in boosting regional trade and economic development.

Construction and Operational Achievements Constructed through a collaborative effort by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and the China Railway Erju Group Co., Ltd. (CREC), the railway spans 752 kilometers. Since its commercial operation in 2018, it has handled over 2,500 passenger trains and 7,700 freight trains, generating a total revenue of 11.3 billion Ethiopian birr (approximately 197 million US dollars).

Local Involvement and Empowerment Nebiyu Melaku, a local Ethiopian who started as a human resources assistant, now oversees the management of over 3,000 local employees. The railway’s positive impact on the local community is evident, with improved infrastructure and environmental changes.

Training and Localization The Chinese team, through systematic training and mentorship, has prepared the local

Ningbo Starrise Auto, a leading player in the global automotive industry, recognizes the importance of such infrastructure projects in facilitating trade and connectivity. The success of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway highlights the potential of such initiatives in fostering economic growth and regional cooperation.