An Overview of Ethiopia's Borders with Its Neighbors

The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, a country with a friendly name, "The Horn of Africa," is located in the northeastern region of Africa. Ethiopia borders Sudan on the west, Kenya on the south, Eritrea on the north, and Somalia and Djibouti border on the east. These international boundaries have historical, cultural, and economic significance, shaping Ethiopia's interactions with its neighbors and impacting regional dynamics.

In this blog article, Ethiopia Immigration Services will help you answer the question: "How many countries border Ethiopia?" by providing essential details about Ethiopia's borders with all its neighbors. Let's continue reading.

How Many Countries Border Ethiopia?

Ethiopia is a landlocked country that shares borders with six countries: South Sudan, Sudan, Somalia, Kenya, and Eritrea. This nation has been using the principal port of neighboring Djibouti for the past twenty years. However, with the peaceful efforts of Eritrea in recent years, Ethiopia will be able to continue using the Eritrean ports of Assab and Massawa ports for international trade.

1. Eritrea

To the north of Ethiopia lies Eritrea, with a border spanning approximately 1,033 kilometers (641.87 miles). The Ethiopia-Eritrea border has been historically significant, marked by periods of conflict and eventual peace agreements. The border disputes, particularly around the town of Badme, led to the Eritrean-Ethiopian War (1998-2000), which resulted in significant loss of life and displacement. However, in 2018, a peace agreement was reached, ending decades of hostility and reopening border crossings.

Today, the Eritrea to Ethiopia border crossing remains vital for trade and regional stability between the two countries. The reopening of border crossings has facilitated the movement of people and goods, enhancing economic ties between the two countries. Additionally, efforts are ongoing to demarcate the border accurately and resolve outstanding issues, further promoting peace and cooperation.

Read more: Ethiopia visa for Eritreans

Ethiopia and Eritrea border

2. Djibouti

The shared boundary between Ethiopia and Djibouti is situated at Ethiopia's northeastern border and spans 349 kilometers (213.13 miles). Due to tension between Eritrea and Ethiopia, Ethiopia has relied on Djibouti for access to the ocean for many years. Although they appear to have settled the majority of their urgent border concerns, Ethiopia and Djibouti also had border disputes in the past.

In 2015, the government representatives from these two nations came together in a meeting to settle matters about international border policy, including import and export regulations. In order to bolster their economies even further, both nations have also been investing in infrastructure related to border crossings. The Ethio-Djibouti Railway, completed in 2017, has strengthened the two countries' economic ties by providing a direct railway link between landlocked Ethiopia and Djibouti's port. This vital transportation corridor significantly reduces Ethiopia's reliance on other ports and enhances its trade competitiveness.

Read more: Ethiopia visa for Djibouti citizens

3. Somalia

The shared border between Somalia and Ethiopia is the longest international border, spanning approximately 1,600 kilometers (994.19 miles) to the southeast of Ethiopia. Since the 1940s, when colonial control began, these two nations have been engaging in dispute over their boundary. Around this time, British authorities gave Ethiopia the Ogaden, a territory region. The majority of the territory's residents are ethnic Somalis, and it occupies 126,282 square miles. Before being given to Ethiopia, this region was administered by the Italians and then the British. The southern part of the peninsular border is where the Ogaden boundary is situated. Throughout the years, Ethiopia and Somalia have fought each other militarily in this area. However, the establishment of a permanent government in Somalia in 2011 resulted in an improvement in the relationship between the two countries.

Visit:

• Traveling from Somalia to Ethiopia
• Ethiopia visa for Somali passport

Ethiopia and Somalia border

4. Kenya

To the south of Ethiopia lies Kenya, with a border stretching approximately 861 kilometers (535 miles). Like many of the Horn of Africa's other nations, Kenya and Ethiopia are also embroiled in a border dispute. However, it's interesting to note that Moyale city, which is spread out on both sides of the border between the two nations, is located along this boundary. Additionally, there have also been violent conflicts between several indigenous communities along various border sites. These conflicts happened due to natural resources, and water is one of the most disputed resources on this border. The desertification, climate change, and an Ethiopian dam along the Omo River have resulted in disputes about water supplies in this region.

On the other hand, Ethiopia and Kenya are still vital partners in the East African region, collaborating on various economic and development initiatives. The Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor project aims to enhance connectivity and facilitate trade along this border. Improved road infrastructure and border management systems further promote cross-border interactions and economic growth.

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• Traveling from Kenya to Ethiopia
• Do Kenyans need visa to visit Ethiopia?

5. South Sudan

Ethiopia's border with South Sudan extends approximately 883 kilometers (548.67 miles) to the west. This border is relatively remote and underdeveloped, characterized by rugged terrain and vast wilderness. Over the past few years, armed rebel groups in South Sudan have been fighting the government to take control of specific border areas, which has resulted in violent turmoil close to this shared international boundary. Indigenous communities that reside on both sides of the international border are another cause of tension at this border. The lack of natural resources, such as water, is the primary source of contention between these people. Human trafficking and illegal commerce are issues here as well. However, the two countries have made several efforts to improve infrastructure and security along the border, contributing to peace and stability in the region.

Read more: Ethiopia visa for South Sudanese

Ethiopia and South Sudan border

6. Sudan

To the northwest of Ethiopia lies Sudan, sharing a border of about 723 kilometers (449.25 miles). The Ethiopia-Sudan border traverses diverse landscapes, from the Ethiopian highlands to the Sudanese plains. Since there are now no border posts separating these two nations, there have been several border conflicts throughout the years. The governments of these two nations were working on the border post project, but it was put on hold in 2012 due to the death of Ethiopia's prime minister. In August 2017, the presidents of Ethiopia and Sudan met publicly to refute the notion that they are embroiled in a border conflict. Redemarcation work is currently being done as of 2019. Although there are sporadic territorial conflicts between Sudanese and Ethiopian farmers in the Al-Fashaga area of Sudan, there are no formal disputes along the border.

Read more: Ethiopia visa for Sudanese

How To Cross Ethiopia Borders For International Travelers?

International travelers can cross Ethiopia's borders with specific entry requirements. Here are some advice if you plan to visit this country by land:

• Bring a valid passport for at least six months beyond your intended departure date. 
• Visa requirements: Some nationalities have to acquire a visa prior to departure to Ethiopia, while others can obtain one upon arrival.
• Prepare any required documentation, such as proof of accommodation, onward travel tickets, and sufficient funds.

Travelers should be aware that land border crossings may have specific entry regulations and can be time-consuming. With the introduction of the Ethiopia evisa system, the entry procedure into this nation has become quicker and easier. Those entering Ethiopia by land border crossing are eligible for this type of visa, provided they obtain a valid passport from eligible countries for an eVisa. Let's apply for an evisa and get a travel authorization into this captivating country!

Ethiopia's borders with neighboring countries are pivotal in shaping regional dynamics and influencing Ethiopia's foreign relations. These borders are not merely lines on a map but vital conduits for trade, security, and cultural exchange. Last but not least, if Ethiopia is on your travel bucket list, here is our Ethiopia travel advice. Our guide on places to visit in Ethiopia and the Best time of year to visit Ethiopia will be helpful for your exciting journey to this Horn of Africa nation!