22/07/2025
Ministry of Transport and Equipment /TradeMark Africa/EU:
Towards a Regional Logistics Transformation
As part of the regional integration and logistics modernization project between Djibouti and Ethiopia, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Equipment, with support from TradeMark Africa (TMA) and the European Union, hosted a high-level workshop on Monday, July 21 at the Sheraton Hotel in Djibouti. The event marked the official validation of the feasibility and preliminary design study for the future Galafi border post — a cornerstone initiative for regional trade facilitation.
Held under the framework of the Horn of Africa Initiative, this workshop represented a strategic step forward in efforts to enhance trade flows, build resilient logistics networks, and foster inclusive regional integration. Funded by the European Union through the French Development Agency (AFD), the project signals a concrete move toward deeper cooperation between neighboring countries and a more seamless movement of goods.
This validation workshop built upon a previous consultative session held on May 29, bringing together a wide range of stakeholders: sectoral ministries, customs and border control authorities, engineers, urban planners, technicians, and community representatives. Their collective input embodies an inclusive and participatory approach to infrastructure development — one that prioritizes both technical efficiency and social equity.
The technical presentation of the feasibility report revealed key findings from topographic surveys, traffic analysis, material quality assessments, and geotechnical, hydraulic, and hydrological diagnostics, alongside projected infrastructure blueprints and detailed cost estimates. These comprehensive datasets form the foundation of a robust infrastructure project, tailored to address both logistical performance and the specific needs of the surrounding environment.
Participants were invited to engage directly with the findings, evaluate the recommendations, and contribute to the report's validation — reinforcing transparency and a culture of continuous improvement. This milestone sets the stage for the forthcoming construction phase, grounded in solid technical, environmental, and social planning.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Dileyta Soultan Mohamed, Director of Transport at the Ministry, emphasized the strategic value of modern border infrastructure. “Building a border post is first and foremost about streamlining control procedures by bringing all agencies together in one place,” he stated. “This allows for more coordinated and efficient border management.” He also underscored a less-discussed but critical aspect: the socio-economic impact on border communities.
Indeed, the Galafi project extends beyond customs and control. It includes concrete measures to uplift local populations, who are often marginalized due to geographic remoteness. Planned developments include access to clean water through new wells, sanitation facilities, and small-scale community infrastructure. Ultimately, the Galafi border post aims to become not just a commercial gateway, but also a driver of inclusive local development.
A Catalyst for Sustainable Regional Transformation
Strategically located at the Djibouti–Ethiopia crossroads, the future Galafi border post is poised to serve as a model for integrated and sustainable trade corridors. The project reflects a joint commitment to logistics systems that are not only more efficient and environmentally sound, but also more people-centered. By facilitating faster goods movement, minimizing border delays, and improving inter-agency coordination, this infrastructure will help reduce trade costs and boost regional competitiveness.
Its broader significance lies in reshaping the dynamics of trade across the Horn of Africa — a region long hindered by physical and bureaucratic barriers. Strengthening interconnectivity among member states, the Galafi border post aligns with the African Union’s vision for deeper regional integration and enjoys strong backing from international development partners.
This initiative also showcases the power of structured international partnerships. The involvement of TradeMark Africa, the European Union, and AFD alongside Djiboutian institutions exemplifies a governance model built on dialogue, technical expertise, and strong local ownership. The successful validation of the feasibility study is the result of a collective effort, where institutional, technical, and community stakeholders have come together to shape a transformative infrastructure project.
By endorsing the feasibility and preliminary design study, Djibouti takes a decisive step toward realizing a modern, inclusive, and sustainable logistics hub. The Galafi border post now stands as a symbol of the future of regional trade — where efficiency and social equity advance hand in hand.
For the Horn of Africa — a region long fragmented by geography and policy — this marks the beginning of a new economic chapter. Connectivity is no longer seen as an obstacle to overcome, but as a collective driver of prosperity."
Mahdi