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Ethiopia is enhancing its potable water supply to Djibouti, aiming to increase the daily delivery from the current 20,000 cubic meters to an impressive 100,000 cubic meters.

As a collaboration between Ethiopia and Djibouti, the project was initiated six years ago with financial support from China. The ambitious cross-border water project, spanning 258 kilometers from underground wells in Ethiopia’s Somali region to Djibouti city is considered one of Africa’s largest.

Operated by the Chinese company CGC Overseas Construction Group Co. Ltd (CGCOC) since 2017, the initiative addresses Djibouti’s chronic water stress due to its arid climate. With an average annual rainfall of 200 millimeters, the country has long faced water scarcity issues.

Ethiopia’s Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa emphasized that the project not only boosts water security but also promotes economic integration between the two nations.

Recent discussions between Itefa and Djibouti’s Consulate Director General Ambassador Mussa Haji Jemal centered on observing and improving the ongoing project. The planned enhancements include transitioning from oil to electricity for water extraction, with completion expected within a month.

The cross-border initiative encompassing roads, railways, and electricity connections, exemplifies the growing collaboration between Ethiopia and Djibouti, serving as a model for regional integration.