Addis ababa: Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has underscored the critical importance of developing a modern, high-speed, and high-quality railway network to transform Ethiopia into a regional transportation hub. Speaking during the annual performance review of the Ethio-Djibouti Railway Transport Share Company, the Deputy Prime Minister described the Ethio-Djibouti railway as a major national milestone and a powerful symbol of Ethiopia’s resilience and ambition.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the event was attended by senior government officials, including Eng. Takele Uma, CEO of the Ethio-Djibouti Railway Transport Share Company, State Minister of Transport and Logistics Denge Boru, and other key stakeholders. Deputy PM Temesgen highlighted that Ethiopia was among the first African nations to begin railway development. He commemorated the 130 years since the launch of the Ethiopian-Djibouti Railway, a transformative project that connected Ethiopia to the world and laid the foundation for modernization.
He emphasized that the railway, inspired by the spirit of the Victory of Adwa, represents more than just transportation infrastructure. It symbolizes Ethiopia’s ambition to lead and innovate on the global stage. Temesgen added that the railway reflects a national commitment to complete projects, breaking the cycle of past abandoned initiatives and launching a new era of execution and achievement.
Temesgen noted that the Ethio-Djibouti Railway, once seen as a burden of national debt, has now become a strategic asset, powering trade, boosting national revenue, and playing a central role in Ethiopia’s transport and logistics ecosystem. He called for national unity and commitment to expanding the railway infrastructure as a vital component of Ethiopia’s journey toward prosperity.
Reflecting on the re-launch of the railway under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Temesgen acknowledged initial operational hurdles. However, he noted improvements through key reforms, including recruitment of skilled professionals and integration of modern technology, which have enhanced operational efficiency and service delivery.
Engineer Takele Uma emphasized the railway’s role as a critical artery for Ethiopia’s economic growth and integration with the global market. He traced its historical significance and announced a new three-year strategic plan designed to boost railway performance and economic contribution. He affirmed the company’s commitment to strengthening operations and delivering sustainable results, aiming to improve performance and contribute to the country’s forward momentum.