• Ethiopian officials claim regional administrations operate illegal checkpoints.
• 237 unauthorized checkpoints identified, impacting trade costs.
• Heavy-duty truck drivers are frustrated with excessive tolls charged.

Allegations against Regional Administrations and Checkpoints

Ethiopia is currently facing serious allegations regarding illegal checkpoints set up by regional administrations. This week, key officials from the Ministry of Revenues and the Customs Commission testified before lawmakers, claiming that these entities are running hundreds of unauthorized security checkpoints across the nation’s roadways. Minister Aynalem Nigussie highlighted this issue in a report to the Parliament’s Planning, Budget, and Finance Committee, stressing that these checkpoints serve as both an income source and, interestingly, a means to provide employment for locals.

Impact on Trade and Local Economy

Deputy head Azezew Chanie identified a staggering 237 illegal checkpoints that his office has located throughout the country. Many of these, he asserts, operate under the control of regional police and militia groups. According to him, regional governments have formed task forces specifically to staff these checkpoints, and there appears to be a mindset among officials that they are offering youth a pathway to jobs. However, Azezew warned Parliament that this practice is hindering both domestic and international trade, causing commodity prices to escalate due to the imposition of these toll fees.

Call for Enhanced Enforcement and Legislative Support

Officials reported a noteworthy seizure of contraband valued at approximately 19 billion Birr during an 11-month stretch, resulting in over 1,400 arrests related to the illegal trade. Despite these enforcement efforts, the Deputy Commissioner lamented that enforcement gaps still exist, urging Parliament to empower the Commission to undertake its own inquiries and lay charges against those involved in these illicit activities. Overall, the Ministry tallied 815 billion Birr in revenue collected over the same time frame, with domestic taxation making up a significant portion at 436 billion Birr, whereas imports in duties contributed 378 billion Birr. Meanwhile, heavy-duty truck drivers have voiced their frustrations over the toll burdens imposed across various regional borders, pointing to a need for policy reevaluation.

The illegal checkpoints in Ethiopia are raising considerable concerns among lawmakers and officials alike, both for their economic implications and potential to create employment. Although the Ministry of Revenues reported substantial revenue collection, ongoing contraband issues and enforcement gaps remain problematic. As officials seek support from Parliament, there is a growing urgency to address these checkpoints’ impact on trade and ensure a fairer system for the nation’s drivers.