Training program launched to empower young Ethiopian women for careers in logistics

Addis Ababa, March 28, 2025 (FMC) – A new training program aimed at empowering young women from across Ethiopia to pursue careers in the logistics sector was officially launched today.

The program, which will train 100 young women hailing from all regions, as well as Addis Ababa and Dire-Dawa cities, seeks to address the growing demand for skilled workers in this vital industry.

This groundbreaking initiative, known as the Young Ethiopian Women Logisticians Program (YEWLP), is jointly launched by the Ethiopian Freight Forwarders and Shipping Agents Association (EFFSAA) in collaboration with the Ethiopian Maritime Authority (EMA) and the Ethiopian Trade Logistics Office (ETLP). It aims to empower young Ethiopian women by providing them with world-class logistics training and unparalleled career opportunities.

In his remarks at the launch event, the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime, emphasized the crucial role logistics plays in the nation’s economy, noting that the sector is the lifeblood of the country, facilitating the movement of products and services from inception to delivery.

“Logistics is the vein of national economy which helps expedite activities of all sectors. It helps the mobility and facilitation of products or services from inception to end delivery.”

He stressed that for Ethiopia to remain competitive globally, the logistics sector must be modernized and efficient.

“Logistics is the vein of our national economy, helping to expedite activities across all sectors. It facilitates the mobility of products and services, from the beginning to the end of delivery,” Minister Alemu said. “The sector needs to grow beyond its current capacity in Ethiopia, and we are making diligent efforts to ensure that it plays a central role in placing Ethiopia in a competitive position on the world stage.”

The Minister also pointed out that the logistics sector is still in its initial growth phase in Ethiopia, with much more work needed to reach its full potential. However, he acknowledged the significant investment and employment opportunities the sector holds.

He emphasized that skilled professionals are essential to advance the sector’s performance and urged an expedited approach to achieving the sector’s targets within precise time frames.

“Skilled professionals are crucial to advancing the sector’s performance. For our nation to grow in all corners, logistics must ensure national development,” he stated. “The sector requires unrelenting efforts to meet its objectives and create opportunities for sustainable growth.”

What makes this initiative particularly significant is its focus on addressing gender imbalance in a traditionally male-dominated field. For the first time, one hundred university graduate women from diverse academic backgrounds across Ethiopia will have the opportunity to gain access to the prestigious FIATA Diploma. The program will offer hands-on training in logistics, customs procedures, and sustainability, equipping participants with the skills needed to excel in the global logistics industry.

The YEWLP promotes economic empowerment, increases employability, and supports Ethiopia’s growing demand for skilled professionals in logistics. By fostering female participation in this key sector, the program contributes to the country’s broader goals of inclusive economic growth and national development.

The training program is a collaborative effort, developed in coordination with the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, the Ethiopian Maritime Authority, and the Ethiopian Freight Forwarders and Shipping Agents Association (EFFSAA), with financial support from the World Bank. Set to span six to eight months, the program will equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in logistics. Upon completion, graduates will be supported in securing employment within the industry.

Minister Alemu concluded by highlighting that logistics is a dynamic and internationally engaged sector that requires professional leadership to ensure the country’s economic growth is accelerated.

The event was attended by Minister of State for Transport and Logistics, Denge Boru, Ethiopian Maritime Authority Director-General Abdulber Shemsu, and other key stakeholders.

By Mesafint Brlie