Sea Access Critical for Ethiopia’s Economic Growth, Regional Development: IFA.

Addis Ababa: Ethiopia’s quest for sea access is critical not only to overcome the country’s economic bottlenecks and expedite its growth but also to accelerate regional integration and shared development, Deputy Executive Director of Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) Abdi Zenebe emphasized.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, Abdi stated that the lack of sea access has caused significant challenges to Ethiopia’s economic growth and development, including substantial hurdles in logistics, transport, industrialization, international trade, foreign direct investment, and tourism. The high cost of shipping and transportation has reduced the country’s export competitiveness and made it difficult for Ethiopia to achieve its industrialization aspirations.

Abdi highlighted that Ethiopia is actively working to address these challenges by ensuring sea access. The government has been engaging with regional actors to secure naval access and commercial outlets through integration and give-and-take policy priorities. L
imited sea access not only affects Ethiopia’s economic capabilities but is also a matter of existential concern, hindering the country’s ability to access global trade networks.

Ethiopia is a strong advocate for regional integration in the Horn of Africa, believing that cooperation and collaboration can address shared challenges and unlock economic opportunities. Abdi emphasized the potential benefits of sea access for Ethiopia and the region, stating that Ethiopia’s integration with neighboring countries is crucial for prosperity, stability, and regional development.

Abdi pointed out Ethiopia’s strategic partnerships with countries like Djibouti and Kenya, highlighting the high degree of connectivity through road, rail, and other infrastructures. Ethiopia’s relationship with Kenya includes the Lamu corridor and a bilateral relationship in Moyale. Abdi also mentioned Ethiopia’s involvement in providing security and diplomatic support to Somalia to ensure stability in the region.

Ethiopia’s efforts extend t
o exporting electricity to Djibouti, Kenya, and Sudan, and the country aims to expand these provisions further. The quest for sea access aligns with the African Union’s integration agenda, demonstrating Ethiopia’s commitment to regional growth and interdependence.