New Member Interview: City of Berbera

Berbera is a coastal city in the Sahil Region of Somaliland and is located in the southwest of the Gulf of Aden in East Africa. The urban area consists of more than 280 000 inhabitants and has an important commercial port. The municipality just joined the AIVP network. In a few words Could you briefly introduce your city to the members of our international network? Berbera is home to the country's largest commercial port, dealing with almost all the country’s importations. It is also expected to be a path for Ethiopia’s imports and exports. A new container terminal was recently inaugurated and the perspective for increased volumes is important. Berbera is also a popular tourist destination, thanks to its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and rich cultural heritage. The city is home to several historical landmarks, including Ottoman and British monuments, and the old city walls. Facing important droughts, the city has to deal with the direct impact of climate change; the municipality is currently involved in project to mitigate it. What can you bring to the AIVP network and what are you looking for in the AIVP network? Berbera City is a fast growing trade hub in the Horn of Africa with multiple investments to deal with in port congestion and to increase the efficiency of logistic services from foreign companies including DP World. Due to its crucial strategic location for international maritime trade, port logistic infrastructure capacity, its inland transport connectivity to neighbouring landlocked countries, the city has room for growth. It also provides a free trade zone with business friendly regulations, bunker services, and…