Eritrea’s Transport and Communication Sectors Show Remarkable Growth Since Independence
By Nexio News
ASMARA, Eritrea – Over the past 35 years, Eritrea has made significant strides in rebuilding and modernizing its transport and communication infrastructure, transforming them into key drivers of national development. Emerging from decades of neglect, the country has strategically expanded connectivity, boosting economic activity and social integration.
Transportation: From Scarce Roads to a Thriving Network
At independence in 1991, Eritrea inherited a severely depleted transport system. Today, the country boasts a vastly expanded road network—growing from just 26 routes to 342—an increase of 1,215%. Public transport has seen even more dramatic growth, with bus services up by 613%, daily passenger capacity by 857%, and taxi services by 760%.
Investments in rural and urban transport have totaled 626 million Nakfa and 385 million Nakfa, respectively, improving accessibility in previously underserved regions. Freight transport has also expanded, with over 15,000 vehicles now moving 82,000+ tons of dry cargo and 238,000 m³ of liquid goods daily.
Despite these gains, challenges remain, including an aging vehicle fleet and spare parts shortages. However, the government has prioritized road safety reforms, implementing mandatory vehicle inspections and improved traffic management systems to reduce accidents.
Communications: From Near Zero to 4G Connectivity
Eritrea’s communication sector faced even greater hurdles at independence, with barely functional telecommunications. The government invested 35 billion Nakfa over the past three decades to rebuild the sector.
Internet bandwidth, which stood at a mere 0.5 megabytes in 2001, has surged to 1.5 gigabytes, with nationwide 4G coverage now available. The country has installed 184 telecommunication towers, extending Wi-Fi services to remote and semi-urban areas.
While affordability and access remain challenges, the progress is undeniable. “We’ve moved from almost no connectivity to a modern, expanding network,” said Transport and Communications Minister Tesfaselassie Berhane in a recent interview.
Looking Ahead
Eritrea’s transport and communication sectors have come a long way, fostering economic growth and national unity. Continued investment and strategic planning will be crucial to sustaining this momentum.
For now, the numbers tell a story of resilience—a nation steadily bridging gaps and building for the future.
— Reported by Nexio News
