I’m thrilled to sit down with Marco Gaietti, a veteran in business management with decades of experience in strategic operations and global trade logistics. Marco has been closely involved in transformative projects that redefine how goods move across borders, and today, we’re diving into the exciting launch of a new shipping route by DP World, connecting Jebel Ali Port in the UAE with Berbera Port in Somaliland. Our conversation explores how this route is poised to reshape trade dynamics between the Gulf and East Africa, the infrastructure advancements making it possible, and the broader economic and social impacts for the region. Let’s get started.
Can you walk us through what sparked the idea for this new shipping route between Jebel Ali and Berbera Ports?
The inspiration behind this route came from a clear need to bridge trade gaps between the Gulf and East Africa. We saw an opportunity to create a more direct and efficient maritime link that could serve as a catalyst for economic growth in the Horn of Africa. Berbera emerged as a strategic choice due to its location and potential as a gateway to underserved markets. It wasn’t just about connecting two ports; it was about unlocking access to regions that have long relied on slower, less predictable logistics chains.
How does this route stand out as a transformative force for trade in the region?
This service is a game-changer because it offers faster and more reliable transit times compared to existing options. By linking Jebel Ali, a major global hub, with Berbera, and including stops at Aden and Djibouti, we’re enhancing connectivity across key port cities. This not only streamlines trade flows but also provides businesses with better access to markets in the Horn of Africa. It’s about reducing delays and creating a more seamless trade corridor for everyone involved.
What kind of impact does this route have on landlocked areas like Ethiopia?
For landlocked regions like Ethiopia, this route is a lifeline. Traditionally, cargo bound for Ethiopia moves through Djibouti Port and then faces long, often unpredictable overland trucking routes. Our service through Berbera offers a viable alternative with more consistent transit times and less exposure to bottlenecks. We’re also working on strengthening inland connections, such as improved road corridors, to ensure goods reach their destinations efficiently.
Can you share some details about the infrastructure developments at Berbera Port that support this new service?
Berbera Port has seen remarkable upgrades that make this route possible. The 1,050-meter quay, with a section designed to handle massive Triple E vessels, significantly boosts our capacity for larger ships. We’ve also developed a state-of-the-art container terminal and specialized facilities for livestock handling, which can process around 4 million heads annually. These enhancements allow us to manage higher trade volumes and cater to diverse cargo needs, positioning Berbera as a leading logistics hub.
What role does the Berbera Special Economic Zone play in this broader vision?
The Berbera Special Economic Zone, or BSEZ, is a cornerstone of our long-term strategy. It’s designed to attract foreign investment by offering a business-friendly environment with incentives for industrial growth. We envision it as a hub for manufacturing and trade processing, which will create jobs and stimulate the local economy. Over time, we expect to see significant industrial expansion that complements the port’s role as a trade gateway.
How does this route align with the larger goal of strengthening trade ties between the Middle East and East Africa?
This service is a key part of our mission to deepen economic connections between these two regions. We’re aiming to unlock new trade opportunities, particularly for high-demand goods like livestock, which already contribute over a billion dollars annually through Berbera. It fits into our broader investment strategy in Africa, where we’re focused on building resilient trade corridors that drive prosperity for businesses and communities alike.
What were some of the biggest challenges in establishing this new trade corridor?
Setting up this route wasn’t without hurdles. We faced logistical challenges, from coordinating schedules across multiple ports to ensuring infrastructure readiness at Berbera. Regional complexities also required careful navigation to align with local needs and regulations. To maintain reliability, we’ve invested in robust planning and technology to monitor and adapt to any disruptions, ensuring businesses can count on consistent service.
Beyond trade, there’s a strong emphasis on community impact in Berbera. Can you tell us more about these initiatives?
Absolutely, community development is at the heart of our work. One initiative I’m proud of is training local women as solar-energy technicians, affectionately called ‘Solar Mamas.’ This program not only empowers individuals with skills but also brings sustainable energy solutions to the region. These efforts show how trade infrastructure can go beyond economics to create lasting social benefits, fostering growth on multiple levels.
Looking ahead, what is your forecast for the future of trade in the Horn of Africa with projects like this taking shape?
I’m incredibly optimistic about the future of trade in the Horn of Africa. With initiatives like the Jebel Ali-Berbera route, we’re laying the foundation for a more connected and dynamic region. I foresee Berbera becoming a central hub that drives not just maritime trade but also industrial and economic diversification. Over the next decade, I expect we’ll see increased investment, better infrastructure, and stronger market access, positioning the region as a vital player in global commerce.
