Awash–Kombolcha–Hara Gebeya Railway Project

A strategic railway link to integrate northern and central Ethiopia within the framework
of the national infrastructure development plan

Project Overview

The Awash–Kombolcha–Hara Gebeya Railway Project is a strategic 391.7 km single-track railway line designed to connect northern Ethiopia (Hara Gebeya) with the central region (Awash). Also known as the Awash–Weldiya Railway, this electrified line is a vital component of Ethiopia’s broader infrastructure development agenda.

Ethiopian railway system

A general map of the Ethiopian railway system, featuring the Awash–Kombolcha–Hara Gebeya Railway Project, clearly marked in red. This project is a key part of Ethiopia’s broader infrastructure development, connecting important regions and facilitating improved transportation of goods and passengers.

Project Background and Challenges

Construction of the railway began in 2015, with the goal of improving national connectivity and boosting trade. However, progress has been severely impacted by regional instability, particularly the Tigray War. In October 2021, damage was reported to key infrastructure components—including tunnels and bridges—along with looting of construction equipment in Kombolcha by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front. These events led to major delays and significant job losses among railway personnel.

Economic Significance

Upon completion, the Awash–Hara Gebeya Railway will be a cornerstone in linking Ethiopia’s eastern and northern economic corridors. It will integrate with the Addis Ababa–Djibouti Railway, enhancing the country’s trade logistics and stimulating regional economic growth.

Project Revitalization and Funding

Despite setbacks, the Ethiopian government remains committed to completing the project. In 2025, the Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC) launched a renewed effort to resume construction, seeking international partnerships to support the project’s revival.

As part of this initiative, ERC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with COIPA — an international partner — for the joint development of the Awash – Hara Gebeya Railway Project and other major infrastructure ventures across the country. This collaboration is expected to bring in technical expertise, financing solutions, and strategic oversight to support ERC’s long-term transport development goals.

The railway infrastructure includes:

12 tunnels (totaling 10 km)
52 bridges of various lengths
10 substations
8 power control stations
A main maintenance depot

The estimated project cost is $1.7 billion, primarily financed by loans from Credit Suisse, with additional contributions from Türk Eximbank and other international financial institutions. Yapı Merkezi (Turkey) is the main contractor, and SYSTRA (France) serves as the project consultant.