In a landmark bilateral engagement, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Republic of Kenya have reaffirmed their commitment to regional integration and socio-economic development through the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HOAGDP). The meeting, convened under the auspices of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and held in Addis Ababa, focused on enhancing infrastructural connectivity, trade facilitation, and cross-border cooperation.
Led by Minister of Finance, Ahmed Shide, and Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Investment and Assets Management, Hon. Cyrell Odede Wagunda, the delegations, alongside IGAD’s Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu (PhD), emphasized the importance of multilateral responses to connectivity challenges in the Horn of Africa. The discussions aligned with IGAD’s Vision 2050 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, prioritizing seamless trade and regional integration.
Key resolutions include the construction of two bridges across the River Dawa at Rhamu and Suftu to improve access to healthcare, education, and markets for underserved communities. The operationalization of a One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at Rhamu and a Trade Facilitation Center at Suftu aims to reduce border-crossing times and transport costs, enhancing the competitiveness of regional goods. Additionally, both nations committed to completing cross-border fiber optic connectivity to boost digital services and access to emerging technologies.
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The meeting also revived plans for the River Dawa Basin Development Initiatives to harness trans boundary water resources for shared economic benefits. Both countries agreed to finalize a bilateral agreement on customs cooperation and other legal frameworks to support these initiatives.
