Ethiopia Can Build Self-sufficient Railway System that Connects Africa, Says Deputy PM Temesgen

Addis Ababa, August 23, 2025 (ENA)— Ethiopia can build a self-sufficient railway system that not only restores national pride but also contributes to the greater vision of connecting Africa by rail, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh declared on Friday. 

Following his visit to the Dire Dawa Railway Station, the deputy premier said Ethiopia’s railway, once among the first to introduce modern rail services to Africa, has too often been held back by the habit of reversing course with each change in government.

Stating that this constant shift has left the country lagging behind despite its early start and enormous potential, he noted that this most valuable national resource is being revived under a new vision.

“Our railway is beginning to shake off the dust of neglect,” he stressed.

Transportation services, workshops, and repair works are moving forward again, guided by the principle of uncovering hidden resources and transforming past setbacks into future prosperity.

The Dire Dawa–Dewele line, administered by the city of Dire Dawa, already operates twice a week and is generating profit by restoring long-idle trains to service and mobilizing scattered workers into productive action.

Expansion plans are underway, and the federal government has pledged continued support to strengthen these achievements, the Deputy PM elaborated.

According to him, an early pioneer in African rail, Ethiopia fell behind over the years. The chance for renewal is now within reach.

“With determination and unity, we can build a self-sufficient railway system —one that not only restores national pride but also contributes to the greater vision of connecting Africa by rail.”