Over the past 25 years, Segon-Marill has grown into one of Ethiopia’s leading providers of moving and logistics services. General Manager Biniyam Ketema gives an overview of the opportunities that are emerging for the company, at home and overseas.
Founded in 2000 and based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Segon-Marill has spent the past 25 years negotiating regional challenges – including Ethiopia’s often patchy infrastructure and unstable regulatory landscape – to become a leader in the country’s moving and logistics sector
According to General Manager Biniyam Ketema, Ethiopian moving services are best characterised by their affordability. Many customers depend on unofficial operators, with demand growing, fuelled by urbanisation. There is a particular focus on major cities, including Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, Bahir Dar, Hawassa, and Mekelle because of infrastructure development, employment opportunities and urbanisation.
‘As the country’s economy and infrastructure grows, its relocation services may align more closely with international standards required to service a global clientele,’ says Ketema. ‘Ethiopia’s international moving industry is quite professional, and provides specialised services for cross-border moves, extensive insurance, and cutting-edge technology, albeit at a higher price.’
Driven by political needs and economic migration, transferees from Ethiopia regularly need household items moved to destinations such as the US, Canada, Germany, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Kenya, and South Africa, with customers from diplomatic communities, or moving for job openings or other commercial reasons.
‘Overseas relocations necessitate more intricate logistics, such as shipping and customs clearance,’ says Ketema, who adds that Segon-Marill aims to provide ‘seamless and comprehensive’ services around the world.
‘Our expertise in managing inbound and outbound air and sea shipments means we can provide tailored solutions and smooth cross-border transitions. Our team of dedicated professionals is passionate about delivering excellence and building lasting relationships rooted in trust, reliability and exceptional service quality.’
The company’s ‘customer-first’ approach is characterised by ‘dependable, innovative and customised solutions that allow our clients to focus on what truly matters during their transition’, says Ketema.
Urban expansion
‘The rapid pace of Ethiopia’s urbanisation and infrastructure growth, and the expansion of the middle class, are fuelling the need for dependable and professional moving services, especially in cities such as Addis Ababa,’ says Ketema. ‘Segon-Marill is looking to seize this opportunity by providing standardised, cost-effective and insured solutions.’
Internationally, he sees opportunities connected to Ethiopia’s rising foreign investment and diplomatic ties with more than 130 embassies and diplomatic missions.
‘Collaborating with international logistics firms, Segon-Marill has access to a global market, delivering seamless services for expatriates, diplomats and corporations, while expertly managing customs and shipping challenges,’ Ketema says.
‘Adopting technology and sustainable practices will further strengthen our competitive edge in local and international markets.’ This includes pioneering the use of eco-friendly packing materials. ‘We are the sole provider of ISPM-standard wooden boxes and UAB cartons in the Ethiopian market, so we stand out in delivering premium solutions.
‘We have created a bespoke ERP system that allows clients to monitor their shipment status in real time. This ensures we remain at the forefront of the industry, consistently delivering exceptional service and maintaining a competitive edge.’
Segon-Marill is also boosting the storage capacity of its warehouse and acquiring additional covered trucks and forklifts to improve the efficiency of its services.
‘We are committed to investing in advanced technology and offering ongoing training for our staff, to ensure we adapt to and meet the changing demands of our clients,’ says Ketema. ‘Our mission is to deliver exceptional, white-glove moving solutions that alleviate the stress of relocation. We accomplish this by empowering our passionate team to innovate, explore, and introduce unique services designed to meet the evolving needs of our clients.’
Biniyam Ketema, General Manager at Segon-Marill, says joining FIDI is a key marker on the company’s journey to achieving its aspiration ‘to become Africa’s most dependable, trusted and premium relocation service provider’.
‘It is a strategic move to establish trust, professionalism and global expansion,’ he says, ‘and reflects our dedication to upholding these standards and continually enhancing our offerings.
‘FIDI’s rigorous certification process ensures that Segon-Marill meets international quality and service criteria, boosting our reputation and competitive edge. Membership also grants us access to a global network of reliable partners, enabling seamless cross-border relocations and entry into new markets.
‘Furthermore, FIDI provides valuable training, resources and industry knowledge, helping Segon-Marill enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.’