Djibouti Hosts the 35th Edition of Intermodal Africa 2026 Under Presidential Patronage
Under the High Patronage of the President of the Republic of Djibouti, His Excellency Ismail Omar Guelleh, the 35th edition of Intermodal Africa 2026 was successfully held yesterday at the Djibouti Palace Kempinski.
The opening ceremony was marked by a keynote address delivered by His Excellency the President of the Republic. In his address, the President emphasized that Djibouti’s geo-strategic position, at the crossroads of major international maritime routes is beyond being a transit point, it is a value-creation platform for trade, energy, industry, and regional cooperation, driven by a shared vision of sustainable growth and collective prosperity.
The President of the Republic of Djibouti, His Excellency Ismail Omar Guelleh underscored that Intermodal Africa 2026 hosted by Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority represents a strategic platform for dialogue and cooperation sending a strong signal to the international community that Djibouti is open, ready, and fully committed to Africa’s economic integration and the world.
Addressing Africa’s strategic outlook, the President of the Republic of Djibouti highlighted the imperative of continuing developing integrated port, maritime, rail, and customs systems to unlock the continent’s economic potential. His Excellency emphasized the importance of accelerating the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), through harmonized customs procedures and the progressive establishment of a single customs border, enabling seamless cross-border trade and deeper continental connectivity.
In his speech, Chairman of Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority reaffirmed DPFZA’s long-term vision to position itself as a leading Intermodal logistics and trade platform for Africa and beyond. To achieve this, DPFZA has invested in the capacity building of the next generation of maritime professionals: Captains and marine engineers who sail today on 7 seas across the world, men and women alike. This year, 22 all-female captains joined the marine services. This week, 7 Djiboutian officers are on board of ocean sea going vessels notably Ethiopian Shipping lines (ESL).
The 35th edition of Intermodal Africa 2026 brought together 300 participants from 23 countries, providing a high-level platform for strategic dialogue, knowledge exchange, and partnership development. The event reaffirmed Djibouti’s central role in advancing regional connectivity, trade facilitation, and sustainable development across Africa and the world.