Ethiopian Seafarers Contribute $50m Annually in Remittances

Apr 21 , 2024

Ethiopian Maritime Authority disclosed 50 million dollars in annual remittances from seafarers deployed internationally. Abdulber Shemsu, the director general of the Authority, said Ethiopia's membership in the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), establishes global standards and guidelines for safe, secure, and environmentally sustainable shipping practices. With 176 member countries and three associate member countries, including Ethiopia, the IMO provides a framework for ensuring that maritime activities adhere to international standards. Abdulber said this will enable them to secure employment opportunities abroad which in turn contributes to the economy. Abdulber said in the first eight months of the fiscal year, remittances exceeded 36 million dollars. Ethiopia has 7,500 legally recognised seafarers, with plans to increase this number to 40,000 within five years. Abdulber explained that seafarers receive training at schools located in Bishoftu and Bahir Dar cities with plans to expand opportunities for more trainees.