The Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC) revealed plans to expand the national railway network to 5,700 kilometers within the next decade, aiming to drive economic growth and create efficient transport corridors across the country.
ERC Deputy CEO, Getu Gizaw, disclosed that feasibility studies for various railway projects had been finalized, though implementation will depend on securing the necessary financing. Currently, railway logistics account for only 15% of Ethiopia’s transport coverage. The ERC plans to raise this figure to 40% by upgrading infrastructure and improving efficiency.
Key projects under development include the Awash-Woldia-Hara Gebeya and Hara Gebeya-Mekelle railway lines. The Woldia/Haragebeya-Mekelle railway, with a budget of USD 1.6 billion, spans 216 kilometers. Construction began in 2007 E.C., featuring a 1.435-meter standard gauge and fully electric operations. The project, managed by China Communications Construction Corporation (CCCC) and advised by China International Engineering Consulting Corporation (CIECC), includes 76 bridges, 370 culverts, and eight tunnels spanning 10.03 kilometers in total, with the longest tunnel measuring 3.662 kilometers.
Another major initiative is the Awash-Woldia/Hara Gebeya Railway, a 392-kilometer fully electric line under construction since 2015. Funded by Turk Exim-Bank at a cost of USD 1.7 billion, the project is being executed by Turkish contractor Yapi Merkezi with consultancy support from The French SYSTRA MD. The railway includes 10 substations, 12 tunnels, 52 bridges, and one main workshop, underscoring its complex infrastructure.
In addition to these projects, ERC has completed feasibility studies for the Endode Logistics Port and railway project, designed to modernize logistics, reduce costs, and enhance the supply chain. To address the scarcity of local expertise, the ERC has trained 400–500 engineers to locally develop and construct railway infrastructure, with hopes of eventually expanding its expertise across Africa.
The ERC is also focusing on shifting from road-based logistics to railways for import-export trade. This modal shift, combined with supportive policies and expanded infrastructure, is expected to increase freight capacity and improve Ethiopia’s logistics efficiency.
Source: The Ethiopian Herald and Ethiopian Railways Corporation
