Ethiopia to Use Djibouti’s Doraleh Port Terminal for Livestock Export

ADDIS ABABA- Ethiopia and Djibouti on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the Utilization of the livestock terminal at Doraleh Multi-Purpose Port, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The agreement was signed between Agriculture minister Oumer Hussien and Mohammed Ahmed Awaleh, Djibouti’s Minister of Agriculture, Water, Fisheries, Livestock, and Marine Resources.

“I’m delighted for signing MoU with the Ministry of Agriculture of Djibouti to operationalize the Doraleh Multipurpose Port,” Oumer said.

The agreement paves the way for Ethiopia, as a leading country in livestock population, to effectively use its resources by exporting live animals through proper quarantine and inspection services, according to the Agriculture minister.

“The port serves as a resting terminal for export animals originating from Ethiopia,” said the minister, adding that it will boost the level of live animal export and foreign currency earnings from the sector.

Oumer also expressed his government’s strong conviction for the terminal to be operational and function in accordance with the terms of the MoU, which requires joint commitment from both countries.

Recently, Ethiopia invested in the construction of a standard quarantine facility in the Afar regional state’s Mille, which is located in close proximity to the port of Djibouti.

Officials say the quarantine station has also recently been accredited, registered, and recognized by inspectors from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), allowing for the efficient delivery of animals intended for export while the regulatory aspect remains public goods.

Djibouti’s minister Awaleh noted that the increasing commercial ties between Ethiopia and Djibouti can serve as a testament to the two countries’ growing strategic partnership, stating his government’s commitment to implement the MoU signed between the two countries effectively.