ESL Launches Digital Customer Self-Service Platform to Modernize Logistics Sector

ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 4, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics (ESL) today launched a digital customer self-service platform designed to modernize port and cargo operations, streamline import and export processes, and reduce reliance on paper-based procedures.

The web and mobile platform application provides customers with digital access to a range of services, including customer registration, cargo tracking, booking, demurrage management, digital payments, and complaints handling. It also incorporates AI-supported chatbots to provide users with faster assistance.

High level participants at the launch included senior officials from the Ethiopian Maritime Authority, ESL, Ethio Djibouti Railway Share Company and the National Bank of Ethiopia, along with representatives of private banks, import and export businesses and other key industry stakeholders.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Maritime Authority Fraol Tafa said digital technologies are increasingly transforming nearly every aspect of daily life and have become essential to modern logistics operations.

“The digital world influences nearly every aspect of our daily lives,” Fraol said.

He said terminal management systems will also be introduced soon, further transforming Ethiopia’s logistics sector by making operations smarter and more efficient.

“Every investment made by Ethiopia in the logistics sector ultimately impacts the final consumer positively,” he said.

Fraol urged public and private sector stakeholders to adopt modern digital systems to reduce costs, improve cargo tracking and strengthen service delivery.

ESL CEO Abdulber Shemsu Ahmed said the new platform is part of the company’s broader modernization efforts to respond to the demands of Ethiopia’s rapidly growing economy.

“By prioritizing modernization, the company aims not only to enhance efficiency but also to position itself as a formidable contender in the logistics sector,” Abdulber said.

He said the digital application would improve service delivery by allowing customers to access services more efficiently and reducing delays associated with previous procedures.

“The digital application launched today will further modernize service delivery, allowing customers to receive efficient service without the delays previously encountered,” he said.

According to ESL, the platform integrates previously fragmented processes and eliminates manual paperwork that contributed to delays and errors, thereby reducing transaction times and improving operational efficiency.

Takele Uma, CEO of Ethio Djibouti Railway Share Company, welcomed the initiative and highlighted the government’s support for ongoing reforms in the logistics sector.

“The technology launched today carries great significance and will allow customers to receive improved, effective service,” Takele said.

He said the government is working to transform ESL into a leading logistics institution in East Africa.

The platform is also aligned with the Digital Ethiopia 2030 agenda, which seeks to accelerate end to end digital transformation across the country’s trade corridors.

ESL said it will continue investing in digital technologies to improve efficiency, accuracy and competitiveness across its operations, enabling businesses and consumers to access faster and more reliable logistics services while reducing operational costs.