Ethiopia Moves to Revive $1.7 Billion Railway Project Linking Central, Northern Regions
Ethiopia Moves to Revive $1.7 Billion Railway Project Linking Central, Northern Regions
Ethiopia Moves to Revive $1.7 Billion Railway Project Linking Central, Northern Regions
The Ethiopian government is moving to revive the Awash–Kombolcha–Hara Gebeya railway project, a major transport corridor designed to connect central Ethiopia with the northern part of the country after years of delays caused by conflict and economic challenges.
The 392-kilometre railway line, valued at approximately $1.7 billion, was initially launched in 2015 as part of broader efforts to strengthen transport infrastructure and improve trade connectivity across the country.
Construction of the project was disrupted following the conflict in the Tigray region, which reportedly caused significant damage to tunnels, bridges and construction equipment, contributing to a prolonged suspension of activities.
Officials said the railway is expected to carry up to 1.9 million passengers and approximately 15.2 million tonnes of freight annually when completed, strengthening movement between industrial zones and key commercial corridors in northern Ethiopia.
Reports indicate that the Ethiopian Railways Corporation has completed assessments of the project and is currently seeking partnerships to facilitate the continuation of construction works.
As part of efforts to revive the project, Italy-based COIPA Italia reportedly signed a framework agreement in 2025 to support the restart alongside Turkish contractor Yapı Merkezi, which was involved in the original development phase.
Despite ongoing economic and debt-related challenges, Ethiopia continues to pursue large-scale infrastructure projects aimed at boosting transportation networks, trade opportunities and long-term economic development.
Ethiopia Moves to Revive $1.7 Billion Railway Project Linking Central, Northern Regions
