UK forwarders agree to support Ethiopia’s logistics sector

The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ethiopian Freight Forwarders and Shipping Agents Association (EFFSAA) aimed at helping to modern and enhance the competitiveness of Ethiopia’s freight forwarding and logistics sector.

The signing ceremony took place at the Hilton Hotel in Addis Ababa and marked a significant milestone in international cooperation for logistics development in Ethiopia.

The MoU outlines a strategic partnership between BIFA and EFFSAA.

Key areas of collaboration include the development of EFFSAA’s institutional capacity and value as a trade association; providing advisory support on technical and commercial matters for both the public and private sector; implementation of specialized training programs for EFFSAA members; as well as facilitating the exchange of resources and knowledge between the two associations and their members.

Recently, senior representatives from BIFA visited Ethiopia to meet with key public and private stakeholders. Their visit culminated in an official signing ceremony attended by high-level government officials, development partners, and industry stakeholders, who underscored the critical role this partnership will play in addressing Ethiopia’s logistics challenges and aligning the sector with global best practices.

Dawit Woubishet, EFFSAA’s president said: “EFFSAA’s mission is to build a globally competitive logistics sector that supports Ethiopia’s economic growth by improving workforce skills, encouraging innovation, and creating international linkages.

“The agreement will help Ethiopia's logistics sector gain valuable experience from a well-established and well-respected trade association, that also has a leading role within the global body for freight forwarding associations, FIATA.”

Steve Parker, BIFA director general says: “I am pleased that recognition of BIFA’s expertise in numerous areas has led to this MoU, which will see both parties working together on the transformation that is taking place in the Ethiopian logistics sector.

“The agreement will help and benefit Ethiopians in the sector and hopefully lead to some new lines of business for members of both trade associations.”