Transforming Addis Ababa

By Staff Writer

Addis Ababa lacked modern facilities for its growing population. The city’s roads were narrow, almost there were no sidewalks for the residents and open spaces were also critical for pedestrians. Moreover, there were lots of slum areas. The city has also lacked greenery.

The 130 years old Addis Ababa has also been without essential amenities vital to the unprivileged segments of the residents and for amusement such as parks, libraries among other things.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed made observations that Addis Ababa should carry out infrastructure development projects as soon as he took office.

As a result, various projects were implemented. Truly, the historical capital of Ethiopia is witnessing a facelift. Modern parks, a giant library, and establishing skill development centers for the impoverished segments of the society, renovation houses for the poor are a case in point.

Through the sound corridor development initiative, Addis Ababa is experiencing phenomenal transformation. Thus, the massive projects are making the capital city a standout dwelling for both locals and tourists.

With a visionary zeal, Addis Ababa city introduced the corridor development project just few months ago to revitalize key routes and enhance connectivity across the designated corridors. Spearheaded by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed the project aims to transform the face of the capital for the benefit of its citizens and visitors. The primary goal is to raise this Africa’s vibrant city to the caliber of modern cities worldwide by implementing various initiatives based on priorities.

Encompassing over an estimated 240 kilometers of road and related infrastructure facilities, the corridor development project boast a wide range of features. Some of these include more than 48 kilometers of newly asphalted roads, four modern underground walkways, and extensive network of 96 kilometers of pedestrian walkways, 100 kilometers of designated bicycle lanes, five kilometers of dedicated running tracks and 48 new bus and taxi terminals to streamline the city's transportation system. It also incorporates recreational centers, children's playground, public plazas to promote community, greenery spaces, and parks for leisure and relaxation, fountains and a state-of-the-art drainage system for improved flood control.

This innovative project has only been going on for a few months, but the changes along Addis Ababa's main corridors are already very noticeable. The trees that were planted as part of the project give fresh air for pedestrians or visitors to enjoy when they want to unwind at the charming pedestrian benches dotted around the area. With the roadways illuminated by gorgeous electric light decorations and electric poles, the night also appears to be a brilliant day.

The ongoing corridor development project has also been accompanied by other essential social facilities to improve the lives of city dwellers. One of these is the ‘Clean Ethiopia’ initiative spearheaded by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The initiative seeks to foster cities with pristine and comfortable living environments for its residents and visitors. The initiative has now been under implementation in Addis Ababa by building modern toilets and sanitation facilities across the main corridors of the city through the active involvement the general public.

The development projects underway in the capital are destined for all. Supporting vulnerable groups of citizens in Addis Ababa is the other vital project being underway with the objective of empowering them to lead a normal life. The project focuses on the unprivileged segments of the society. In this regard, 'Lenegewa' Women's Rehabilitation and Skill Development Center is very critical as it eases the burden of women in the capital who were compelled to lead their daily lives as sex workers. The project aspires to empower vulnerable women through education and skill development lasting from 3 to 6 months, equipping them with the necessary expertise for future employment to earn their living. With 13 impressive buildings contain classrooms, dorms, workshops, vocational training centers, psychological support centers, and medical services, the center strives to empower women holistically.

Another endeavor worth mentioning is renovating the houses of impoverished residents of Addis Ababa. This initiative is carried out annually focusing on renovation and construction of homes for the elderly and economically vulnerable segments of the city. The program has provided impoverished people with affordable housing units, enabling them to lead a dignified life. The initiative has been transforming lifestyles and the living standards of many in people Addis and beyond.

‘Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubark’ boarding high school built in Addis Ababa by the Office of the First Lady for visually impaired persons is also another facility added to Addis Ababa. This extra ordinary boarding school, which encompasses several services convenient for visually impaired students include classrooms, cafeteria, library and other state of the art facilities, will receive more than 300 visually impaired students from across the country.

The corridor development project tackles neglected areas, breathing new life into them. This project is not just about aesthetics; it's about building a resilient and thriving capital for generations to come.

A modern infrastructure is the lifeblood of commerce with efficient traffic flow and improved public transport. This not only benefits businesses but creates a more attractive environment for investment, fostering economic growth, tourism and jobs.

This multi-pronged approach paints a picture of a modern, sustainable, and prosperous capital city.

Today, Addis Ababa stands tall as a diplomatic hub and the headquarters of the African Union, Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), other international organizations and embassies of several countries. Its story is one of constant transformation, a testament to a nation's unwavering spirit and its enduring desire to bloom anew. Indeed, Addis Ababa is under phenomenal transformation.