UK forwarder association BIFA is teaming up with the Ethiopian Freight Forwarders and Shipping Agents Association (EFFSAA) to enhance Ethiopia’s forwarding sector.

The two recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that outlines a strategic partnership between the associations.

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 specialised training programmes 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,” BIFA said.

“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.”

Ethiopia is a fast-expanding market but faces ongoing logistics infrastructure challenges as well as recruitment and technology adoption issues.

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, which also has a leading role within the global body for freight forwarding associations, FIATA.”

Steve Parker, BIFA director general, said: “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.” By Damien Brett, AirCargo News