Addis Ababa: Ethiopia is actively pursuing the diversification of ports with the aim of boosting its economy, Transport and Logistics State Minister Dange Boru said.
The focus is on Ethiopia’s efforts to expand its options for maritime trade, which is seen as a strategy to drive economic growth and development within the country.
A half-day panel discussion organized by the Addis Ababa University (AAU) and Ethio-Logistics Sectorial Association (ELSA) was held under the theme ‘Ethiopia’s port diversification strategy: opportunities and challenges from stakeholder perspective’ today.
In his opening remark, Transport and Logistics State Minister Dange Boru emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration among stakeholders to facilitate the establishment of alternative ports for the country.
Collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies and the private sector, is essential for developing innovative strategies to invest in critical infrastructure.
The state minister added that it is
imperative for Ethiopia to significantly diversify access to its neighbors ports by entering into the necessary arrangements with them and building infrastructure.
This would help it, among others, to enhance its economic competitiveness, support its development and consolidate its influence in the region.
‘Let’s us seize this moment to reaffirm our commitment to unlocking Ethiopia’s great potential through port diversification. By working together we can overcome challenges, maximize opportunities and pave the way for a more prosperous and resilient economy,’ Dange stated
Experts at the panel also emphasized the importance of Ethiopia’s port diversification to ensure economic growth and enhance bargaining power of the country.
Among the panelists, Addis Ababa University economics lecturer Birhanu Denu said sustainable access to sea promises significant boost to Ethiopia’s economy as the country is a huge economy in Africa.
Such access would facilitate seamless import and export processes, minimize exter
nal impediments and ensures expedited trade, he noted, adding that alternative ports would not only strengthen Ethiopia’s bargaining power but also serve as a deterrent against security threats.
AAU President Office Head Matewos Ensermu on his part said access to alternative ports offers multifaceted benefits.
Ethiopia should therefore participate in developing ports either unilaterally or in partnership with other stakeholders, he underscored.
Ethio Logistics and Sectoral Association President, Elizabeth Getahun said access to alternative ports strengthens competitiveness and facilitates trade.
Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics Maritime Service Deputy CEO Siraj Abdulahi stated on his part that a port is not just a physical location for goods and stressed the importance of having various alternative ports.
He also emphasized the need to fulfill the requirements of various producers, including infrastructure, customs, transport protocols, and other regulations, in accessing alternative ports.
The panelist
s also emphasized the necessity of expanding alternative ports across all corridors of the country to get low tariffs and stimulate economic growth in regional states.
Source: Ethiopian News Agency