Update: Addis Ababa City Corridor Development Project

In recent years Addis Ababa has been undergoing some big changes. The latest corridor development project is a continuation of reform plans to transform Addis into a smart and modern city by reviving neglected urban districts. The plan has in mind accommodations for a growing metropolis, including projects for the construction of bicycle routes, spacious pedestrian walkways, better roads, parks, libraries, and additional housing. To improve the quality of life in the city, the project aims to upgrade the outdated drainage systems, upgrade utility networks such as power and internet.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed chaired a supervision meeting with project leaders of the Addis Ababa Development Corridors on March 27. During the session, he reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming Addis Ababa into a hospitable and livable metropolis for its citizens, emphasizing it as a top priority. The Prime Minister acknowledged potential impacts on government-owned or leased properties, low-income communities, and the private sector during the process. However, he stressed that upon completion, significant long-term benefits would be realized for all stakeholders involved.

In a press release, Mayor Adanech Abiebie emphasized that “the goal of the corridor development is making Addis Ababa beautiful and uplift its residents”.  The mayor noted that the plan not only includes improving Addis Ababa but also preserving historical sites and making its residents the beneficiaries of economic development in the city.  The mayor reiterated, “the people’s centered” nature of the projects and provided information on enhanced resettlement provisions for residents affected by new construction.

• For those requiring larger land replacement, alternative accommodations in Kolfe Keraneyo, Gulele, Nifas Silke, Lafto, and Lemi Kura sub-cities was given.
• For individuals preferring to stay in the downtown areas, housing options in Kirkos, Ledeta, and Addis Ketema have been made available.
• Renters have been given one year’s rent worth of rent in cash and moving expenses until their new accommodations are ready.
• Those engaged in rental businesses have been assisted in setting up permanent rental facility in suitable locations.
• 551 individuals employed in various small business enterprises outside main roads have been given improved and larger working spaces.
• 402 individuals who expressed financial constraints and opting for government housing have been relocated to newly constructed homes in Kaliti, offering them an enhanced quality of life.

A diverse group comprising scholars, engineers, architects, government officials, opposition leaders, and residents convened for a panel discussion on April 4th to delve into the corridor development project. The objective was to foster a collective understanding and insight into the project’s goals and implications.

During the discussion, Gosaye Bekele, CEO of Compass Consultancy Services, reaffirmed the project’s implementation based on extensive economic impact research, focusing on prospects for job creation, housing construction, and efficient land use.

Moges Tibebu, Head Engineer of the Addis Ababa Roads Authority, emphasized the swift execution of infrastructure projects, including the corridor development initiative, aimed at elevating Addis Ababa to one of Africa’s premier cities.

Dr. Hirpo Beriso, Assistant Professor of Urban Planning, underscored the significant contribution of development to the city’s income growth, which in turn would enhance infrastructure, attract investments, expand tourist destinations, and create employment opportunities.

During the session, a resident shared her appreciation for the development efforts, highlighting the positive impact on her life as she moved from shanty living conditions to a much-improved new property. Another resident expressed support for ongoing development initiatives while suggesting improvements in city services for community residents are still lagging. In response, the Mayor of Addis Ababa directed the prompt resolution of resident grievances, as announced in a press release on March 30th. This pertains to the establishment of a grievance hearing committee in the Mayor’s Office and all woredas where corridor development work is ongoing. The grievance hearing committee will set out to collect and prioritize complaints and engage with citizens to provide feedback or compensation.