By: Ethio negari

Ethiopia Plans Railway Links With All Neighboring Countries to Boost African Trade

Ethiopia has announced plans to build railway lines connecting the country with all of its neighbors as part of efforts to strengthen regional integration and expand trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The Ministry of Transport and Logistics said the national rail network will be extended beyond Ethiopia’s borders, linking the country with key trading partners across East Africa.

Transport and Logistics Minister Alemu Sime stated that due to the high cost of railway investment, the government is prioritizing long-distance routes that support regional connectivity and international trade.

According to the minister, the project will not only serve domestic transport needs but also facilitate the movement of goods and services between Ethiopia and other African countries.

He emphasized that the development aligns with Ethiopia’s strategy to position itself as a regional trade hub.

“Ethiopia is the political center of Africa, and it is also becoming a leader in regional connectivity,” Alemu said, noting that the initiative is designed to support the broader goals of AfCFTA, including trade expansion beyond neighboring nations.

The minister highlighted that roads are already being constructed to link Ethiopia with all its neighbors, with notable progress on the corridor connecting Kenyan ports to Moyale.

He also cited the operational Ethiopia-Djibouti railway as a successful example of regional cooperation, pointing out that the rail service and its governing body are jointly managed by the two countries.

“This can serve as a model for other African states—jointly building institutions, sharing infrastructure, and benefiting together,” he said.

Alemu added that future railway expansion will target Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya, and other neighboring countries.

However, he declined to provide a timeline, total construction cost, or financing details for the planned projects.

Ethiopia officially launched the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement in October 2025.

According to the Ministry of Trade and Regional Cooperation, the country has already begun exporting products to four African markets, with most shipments handled by Ethiopian Airlines Cargo.

Ministry spokesperson Wondimu Flate said the first shipment under AfCFTA included meat, vegetables, fruits, coffee, and cereals, delivered to countries including Kenya, South Africa, Somalia, and Djibouti.

He credited Ethiopian Airlines Cargo for playing a major role in facilitating air transport and supporting the new trade framework.

Wondimu also noted that out of the 54 African countries that have signed the AfCFTA agreement, 28 including Ethiopia have already opened their borders and begun implementation.