Plans for the construction of dry port terminals in Hawassa and Jimma in Ethiopia have been announced. Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics Services Enterprise (ESLSE) made the announcement. The Hawassa Dry Port will lie on 3.5 hectares of land while the Jimma Port will lie on 20 hectares. The preliminary construction phase of each project will cost Birr 150 million.
The construction of the new dry port terminals is part of ESLSE’s plan to increase its capacity. ELSE targets to handle 10 million tons of cargo annually by 2025. The enterprise also plans to invest in new vessels and equipment to improve its services. In February this year, ESLSE inaugurated Dire Dawa Port and Terminal which was built at a cost of USD 68 million on 34.1 hectares of land. The dry port has the capacity to handle 128,000 containers annually when it becomes fully operational and is expected to reduce foreign currency expenditures.
Reportedly, expansion works are also underway on 8 existing dry ports to facilitate logistics and meet the demands of customers.
Also Read:Â Expansion of Modjo dry port project in Ethiopia begins
Significance of the Dry Ports in Hawassa and Jimma, and other ports
These ports will provide much-needed infrastructure for Ethiopia’s expanding trade sector. These ports will facilitate efficient loading and unloading of goods. Additionally, they will build economic opportunities for local businesses, as the ports will generate jobs and attract investors.
Moreover, since Ethiopia is landlocked, the ports will reduce transport costs for goods entering and leaving the country. This will make it easier for Ethiopia to export goods to the rest of the world.
The ports will improve Ethiopia’s overall trade competitiveness, helping to boost the country’s economy. Â Moreover, the construction of ports in Hawassa and Jimma provides a great opportunity for Ethiopia to modernize its infrastructure.
