Togwajaale, 4 May 2026: TradeMark Africa(TMA) today held a groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the Togwajaale border bridge, a critical trade link between Somaliland and Ethiopia along the Berbera corridor. The event marked a major milestone in enhancing regional trade and connectivity for the two border regions around Togwajaale.
The project is being implemented by TradeMark Africa with funding from Sweden under the Swedish Initiative for Facilitating Trade in Africa (SWIFT) Programme. The reconstruction of this critical infrastructure will significantly improve the efficiency, safety, and reliability of cross-border movement for goods and people. Once completed, it will reduce transit times, lower transport costs, and enhance overall trade competitiveness along the Berbera corridor.
A Critical Trade Link Between Somaliland and Ethiopia
The Togwajaale border crossing is one of the busiest trade corridors in the Horn region, serving as the vital link between Somaliland and Ethiopia. However, the existing bridge has faced structural and capacity challenges that hinder smooth trade flows, particularly during peak periods and adverse weather conditions. To address this, the bridge construction will be complemented by a new Customs system that enables Ethiopian and Somaliland systems to exchange data and reduce friction at the border.
Sweden’s SWIFT Programme Backs the Reconstruction
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Magnes Lennartsson, Ambassador of Sweden to Ethiopia, noted that the project represents a shared commitment to strengthening trade-enabling infrastructure and unlocking economic opportunities for border communities.
“This initiative will not only facilitate faster and safer trade but also contribute to regional integration, job creation, and improved livelihoods for communities that depend on cross-border commerce,” he said.
On his part, H.E. Osman Ibrahin Nour (Afgaab), Somaliland Minister of Transport and Roads Development, said:
“This bridge is more than infrastructure; it is a vital artery for trade—driving robust economic growth, strengthening cross-border commerce, and underpinning Somaliland’s reliance on trade as a foundation for prosperity and opportunity. Its reconstruction will further enhance the Berbera corridor, making trade faster, safer, and more competitive for our region.”
What the Reconstruction Will Deliver
The reconstruction works include structural reinforcement, wadi river draining, and the construction of flood wall barriers. In addition, the scope covers wadi cleaning and the supply and installation of garbage collection bins. The construction will also include two footbridges, which will facilitate the Simplified Trade Regime for the border communities.
A Shared Commitment to Regional Trade
The groundbreaking ceremony brought together government officials, development partners, private sector representatives, and local community leaders. Together, they commemorated the start of construction and reaffirmed their commitment to regional economic cooperation.