Berbera – A high-level Ethiopian delegation arrived in the strategic port city of Berbera today for a working visit aimed at enhancing economic and trade cooperation between Somaliland and Ethiopia.
Led by Dr. Keninsa Lemi (Dabela), Secretary General of the Federal Chamber of Commerce, the delegation comprised federal officials, regional representatives, and chamber of commerce presidents from the Somali Regional State (SRS), Tigray, Oromia, Amhara, and Benishangul regions.
The group toured key infrastructure at the Port of Berbera and the Berbera Economic Free Zone (BEFZ), inspecting commercial facilities, transportation systems, customs operations, and logistics services.
They received detailed briefings from Somaliland officials, including Mr. Mohamed Hassan Salebaan, Director General of the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development. He highlighted advancements in port services, trade facilitation, and Berbera’s growing role as a regional economic gateway.
Upon arrival at the port and free zone, the delegation was welcomed by Somaliland authorities. These included Abdikarim Ibrahim Salebaan, Deputy Director of the Free Zone Authority; Ali Dirie, Director of the Somaliland Ports Authority; Jama Mohamed Ahmed, Head of Sales at DP World; and Ahmed Abdirahman Harir, Head of Berbera Port Customs.
Representatives from DP World provided a comprehensive overview of ongoing commercial activities, infrastructure expansion projects, and initiatives designed to boost the port’s capacity and connectivity throughout the Horn of Africa.
The visit highlights continued efforts to deepen bilateral trade and investment. It aims to leverage Berbera’s strategic location and the BEFZ to improve Ethiopia’s access to global markets and foster regional economic growth.
This engagement occurs amid broader discussions on economic corridors in the Horn of Africa, building upon the historical ties between the two neighbors
