Since Eritrea’s independence in 1993, Ethiopia has been landlocked, relying heavily on Djibouti for access to global trade. Today, over 90 percent of Ethiopia’s imports and exports pass through Djibouti’s ports, creating a relationship that is both economically interdependent and strategically fragile. As Africa’s second most populous country and a rapidly growing economy, Ethiopia increasingly views maritime access not just as a logistical need, but as a matter of national security, sovereignty, and long-term development. This has made its pursuit of maritime freedom a defining geopolitical issue in the Horn of Africa.

Djibouti’s location at the entrance to the Red Sea has allowed it to capitalize on Ethiopia’s dependence. Over the years, it has developed sophisticated port infrastructure, including the Doraleh Container Terminal and other specialized facilities, many supported by foreign investment. This partnership benefits both sides: Ethiopia gains reliable access to international markets, while Djibouti earns significant revenue from transit services and logistics.

However, Ethiopia’s reliance on a single corridor carries substantial risks. Dependence on Djibouti exposes it to high transport costs, congestion, and vulnerability to political or logistical disruptions. Any interruption—whether due to infrastructure limitations or regional instability—can have serious economic........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)