Galafi Border Infrastructure Upgrade – Djibouti
Implementation Partners
Djibouti Ports Corridor Road S.A. (DPCR), and TradeMark Africa.
Implementation Period
2024-2027
Project Participants
Border officials, customs and police personnel, transport operators, truck drivers, travellers, administrative personnel and communities residing in the Galafi border area along the Djibouti-Ethiopia Corridor.
Funding Partner
European Union (EU)
Project Rationale
The Galafi border crossing is a strategic gateway for trade between Djibouti and Ethiopia and supports regional connectivity along the Djibouti-Ethiopia Corridor. However, gaps in infrastructure and utility services affect border operations, cargo movement and service delivery. Limited access to water, sanitation, reliable energy and suitable working and accommodation facilities also affects conditions for border officials and other users.
The project addresses these constraints by supporting improvements to border infrastructure and essential utility services. The intervention is expected to strengthen border operations, improve working conditions and contribute to more efficient cross-border trade. The anticipated benefits will be assessed against the approved project results framework following implementation.
Funding Attribution
This project is financed by the European Union under Global Gateway, with funding delegated to Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and implemented by TradeMark Africa (TMA) in partnership with the Government of Djibouti.
Current Progress
- Environmental and Social Impact Assessment completed.
- Detailed technical designs completed for infrastructure and utility systems.
- Architectural designs finalised for administrative buildings and accommodation facilities.
- Water supply system specifications and engineering calculations completed.
- Hybrid solar and backup power system designs completed.
- Environmental monitoring and management framework established.
- Technical supervision and construction oversight arrangements prepared.
- Implementation planning completed, with construction activities scheduled under the project delivery framework.
Implementation Strategy
Modern and resilient border infrastructure is essential for efficient trade facilitation, regional integration and corridor competitiveness. The project adopts an integrated infrastructure development approach that combines utility upgrades, operational facilities and sustainability measures to improve the functionality of the Galafi border crossing. Implementation focus areas:
1. Water Supply Infrastructure
Rehabilitation of boreholes, construction of a 300 m³ water reservoir and installation of a water-distribution network, in accordance with the approved technical designs.
2. Renewable and Backup Energy Systems
Installation of a hybrid solar and generator system to support border operations and public facilities.
3. Border Infrastructure Development
Construction or rehabilitation of administrative buildings; development of accommodation facilities for customs and police personnel; and development of technical infrastructure, parking areas and rest facilities, as provided for in the approved project scope.
4. Operational Equipment and Technology
Provision of approved information technology, surveillance, office and border-management equipment.
5. Environmental and Social Safeguards
Implementation and monitoring of measures set out in the approved Environmental and Social Management Plan.
6. Capacity Building and Sustainability
Training and knowledge transfer to support the long-term operation, maintenance and management of the infrastructure and utility systems.
