Kenya and Ethiopia have agreed to collaborate on working on cross-border infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing bilateral trade. This was during a meeting in Addis Ababa on June 5 as part of the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HOAGDP). The two countries agreed on transformative programmes to improve the movement of goods, people, and digital services across the Ethiopian-Kenyan border.

One of the features Ethiopia and Kenya agreed to support the construction of two bridges across River Dawa (Rhamu and Suftu). These bridges will be a passage of hope that will carry vehicles across the other side. Furthermore, it conveys aspiration to the underserved communities to access healthcare, education and markets. The main objective are to enhance infrastructural connectivity, socio-economic development and trade facilitation. Furthermore, it will promote cross-border development between Ethiopia and Kenya, the joint communique noted.

The scope of implementation on the Kenya-Ethiopia cross-border infrastructure also includes the One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at Rhamu. The Trade Facilitation Center at Suftu is also in the scope, at a meeting that was convened under the auspices of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (Igad). These measures are seen as a demonstration of Igad’s commitment to operationalize the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Furthermore, it will strengthen seamless trade between Ethiopia and Kenya by reducing border-crossing times. It will also reduce transport costs and make regional goods more competitive in international markets.

Both states are committed to also complete the cross-border fibre optic connectivity, improve cross border digital services, and enhance access to emerging technology. The two nations agreed on the location for a one-stop border post at Rhamu, a trade facilitation center at Suftu and access roads and bridges at both regions. The meeting occurred in the presence of senior government officials led by Ahmed Shide, Minister of Finance of Ethiopia. Cyrell Odede Wagunda, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Investments and Assets Management of the National Treasury of Kenya.