The global freight forwarding and logistics community has officially set its sights on Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, following the formal handover of hosting responsibilities for the 101st FIATA World Congress during the centenary edition of the FIATA World Congress in Milan, Italy.
The Ethiopian Freight Forwarders and Shipping Agents Association (EFFSAA) announced that Ethiopia has received the FIATA Talking Stick from Italy, symbolizing the transfer of hosting duties for the prestigious international event scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa in 2027.
The symbolic handover ceremony was attended by EFFSAA President Dr. Dawit Wubishet, who formally received the FIATA Talking Stick on behalf of Ethiopia and the association. The handover marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s preparations to welcome the global freight forwarding community to its capital city.
The FIATA Talking Stick carries deep historical significance. Originating from the long-standing tradition of the Haida tribe, one of Canada’s indigenous peoples located on the west coast, the talking stick represents a symbol of dialogue and cooperation. During Haida gatherings, whoever holds the talking stick has the right to speak, and no one else may interrupt until the speaker finishes .
The Haida tribe gifted a talking stick to FIATA in 2008 at the Vancouver FIATA World Congress as a gesture of kindness. Unfortunately, the original stick was lost ahead of the 2013 Singapore Congress, presumed stolen. The Canadian International Freight Forwarding Association (CIFFA) subsequently provided a hand-carved replacement, which became the official FIATA Talking Stick in 2023 .
At the Closing Ceremony of each FIATA World Congress, the host of the next congress traditionally receives the talking stick in a symbolic display of responsibility transfer .
The selection of Addis Ababa as the 2027 host city underscores Ethiopia’s strategic position as a gateway to Africa and its rapidly developing logistics sector.
Dr. Dawit Wubishet has been instrumental in advancing EFFSAA’s efforts to bring this prestigious event to Ethiopia. His leadership, commitment, and active contribution have significantly strengthened EFFSAA’s international cooperation and preparations for hosting the Congress. The EFFSAA President has emphasized that hosting the FIATA World Congress represents not only a source of immense pride for Ethiopia but for Africa as a whole, offering an extraordinary opportunity to showcase the continent’s growing influence in shaping the future of trade and supply chains .
Ethiopia has demonstrated its commitment to modernizing its logistics infrastructure and enhancing regional connectivity. In October 2026, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the first phase of an expanded modern logistics center in Modjo, a 60-hectare facility designed to handle up to one million 20-foot containers annually. The hub features Ethiopia’s first Rail-Mounted Gantry crane and serves as a critical link in the DESSU Corridor connecting Ethiopia with South Sudan and Uganda .
The country has also aligned its logistics strategy with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), implementing practical measures including enhanced export capacity and participation in the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) to facilitate cross-border commerce .
The 101st FIATA World Congress will bring together freight forwarders, logistics professionals, industry leaders, government representatives, international organizations, and other stakeholders from around the world. The event will provide Ethiopia with an important platform to showcase its growing logistics sector, strategic position as a gateway to Africa, and opportunities for regional and global trade connectivity.
EFFSAA has committed to working closely with FIATA, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Logistics, Ethiopian Maritime and Logistics (EMMa), Ethiopian Airlines, Ethio-Djibouti Railways, government institutions, private-sector partners, and other stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of the Congress.
Dr. Dawit Wubishet has been actively engaged in international outreach and capacity-building initiatives. He participated in the 2026 FIATA Headquarters Meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, where he provided updates on preparations for the 2027 Congress and contributed to discussions on risk management in airfreight . EFFSAA has also strengthened ties with international partners, including the British International Freight Association (BIFA), to support the professionalization of Ethiopia’s logistics workforce .
