Addis Ababa Taking Centre Stage for Shaping African Cities      

By Gosaye Feyisssa (ENA) 

Addis Ababa, the vibrant capital of Ethiopia, is rapidly evolving into a beacon of modernity while staying deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage. This transformation is not only a testament to its ambitious plans but also a reflection of its growing significance on the African and global stage. Addis Ababa is also rapidly changing and advancing towards global competitiveness. The city hosted the inaugural Africa Urban Forum at Adwa Victory Memorial starting from 4th to 6th September, 2024.

The city’s ongoing evolution was prominently showcased at the inaugural Africa Urban Forum.  

The forum focused on exploring strategies for sustainable urban growth, improving infrastructure development, and enhancing the quality of life in rapidly expanding urban areas. It brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including urban ministers, mayors and urban planners from African cities, as well as representatives from international organizations, invited guests from Africa and beyond.

Addis Ababa, translated as "new flower" in Amharic, embraces all ethnic identities of the country. It is also the seat of African Union (AU) and Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and other international organizations. It is the third diplomatic city.

Currently, Addis Ababa is under rapid transformation. Upgrading infrastructure development activities are being carried out in the city. In her remarks at the inaugural of Africa Urban Forum, Mayor of Addis Ababa Adanech Abiebie stated that making the city livable, green, and safe are the cornerstones of her administration. She also highlighted the significant progress which has been attained in urban development. 

“Our city has embarked on city development. The city administration has proven that we can transform cities and harness their potential. We are also striving to transform the city, benefit our citizens, ensuring that “no one is left behind,” the mayor emphasized.  

Hence, the participants of Africa Urban Forum expressed the city’s infrastructure development as a model for other rapidly growing African cities. Professor Edgar Pieterse, Director of the African Centre for Cities (ACC) at the University of Cape Town described Addis Ababa as a leading example for people-centered urban development in Africa. He lauded the program Addis Ababa is implementing placing children at the heart of the city’s future, emphasizing infrastructure, public spaces, and mobility in a way that is not just about business, but as the development of the people, and especially for the next generation. 

This holistic approach of development with focus on the next generation makes Addis Ababa a model for other cities. The ongoing corridor development in the city has not only beautified the city but also created over 33,000 jobs for young people, enhancing the quality of life for residents and improving access to various infrastructures. Meanwhile, the city’s skyline is increasingly defined by modern high-rise buildings and luxury hotels, underscoring its rising importance in both regional and global markets.

Remy Sietchiping, Chief of the Policy, Legislation, and Governance Section at UN-Habitat, commended the city's emphasis on public entertainment facilities. He noted that Addis Ababa’s commitment to developing public spaces for families is particularly impressive. As African cities continue to expand, they should follow suit Addis Ababa’s approach as a model for creating greener and more comfortable urban environments.

Addis is emerging as a prominent economic hub, playing a crucial role in Ethiopia’s Vision 2030, which aims to elevate the country to middle-income status. The city's technology sector is growing rapidly, with innovation hubs like the Science Museum and various initiatives fostering a new generation of tech entrepreneurs. This vibrant tech scene is solidifying Addis Ababa’s reputation as a leading center for technological innovation in Africa. The city's focus on nurturing startups and creating an enabling environment for technology is setting a precedent for urban centers across Africa.

Sustainability is a key focus of Addis Ababa’s development strategy. The city is working to integrate green spaces into urban planning, with initiatives such as urban farming gaining traction. The expansion of parks and the promotion of renewable energy are central to the city’s approach to environmental stewardship. This was also highlighted by forum participants: Addis Ababa’s efforts to enhance green spaces and promote urban agriculture are commendable. These initiatives not only improve the quality of life for residents but also contribute to the city’s resilience in the face of climate change.

Addis Ababa’s cultural richness continues to shine through festivals, art exhibitions, and cultural show. The Addis Ababa International Film Festival and the Addis Ababa Museum are just a few examples of how the city embraces its artistic heritage. The forum highlighted Addis Ababa’s role as a global connector. 

Participants of the forum noted that the city’s growing influence at regional level underscores its importance in shaping Africa’s future. Dickson Masemola, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs in South Africa, praised the exceptional hospitality and services of the city. As the host of the African Union, Addis Ababa truly represents the heart of the continent where every AU member country is connected to this nation, he said.

Addis Ababa is not just undergoing transformation but actively shaping the future of urban living in Africa. The insights shared at the Africa Urban Forum underscore the city’s role as a model of modernity, innovation, and cultural richness. The city blends its historical heritage with ambitious development plans and  it is poised to become a leading example to forward-thinking, vibrant, and sustainable city in the 21st century.