By: Staff Editor
Recent strides in Addis Ababa's urban development are widely seen as a manifestation of the generation's desire for change and progress in Ethiopia. This push for transformation contrasts sharply with previous eras.
Past national political systems failed to truly represent the people and lacked the capacity to facilitate the social, economic, and political awakening needed for the country's advancement. Instead, these systems were characterized by self-interest, corruption, and nepotism. They suppressed the populace and sowed distrust, treating the country as a tool for political gain and perpetuating dependency.
Under the guise of "development" in previous eras, international commercial loans taken for national projects were misused. Rather than serving their intended purpose, these funds became sources of income for corrupt individuals. Many projects remained incomplete or failed to deliver expected services, becoming burdens on the nation and its people. Practices behind visible projects benefited a few and contributed to challenges, burdening citizens with external debts.
Furthermore, urban development efforts under past regimes resulted in the forced displacement of citizens from their farmlands and homes. Numerous construction projects were abandoned due to mismanagement, with some remaining unfinished for decades. Past governments neglected proper urban development, leaving citizens in dilapidated and overcrowded homes unfit for dignified living and lacking basic amenities.
Despite its status as Africa’s diplomatic capital and a major hub for international relations, Addis Ababa struggled for many years to modernize in line with its global standing, consequently lagging behind international urban standards. Much of the city center's infrastructure, including buildings, was constructed decades ago and deteriorated under subsequent urban and rental policies. These structures often lacked effective ownership management and faced legal restrictions that hindered necessary renovations, contributing to their decay.
Against this backdrop, the government has undertaken extensive efforts over the past six years to revitalize the city. Notably, initiatives over the past two years have focused on corridor development, urban renewal, riverfront projects, and overall city upgrades, marking a significant revival in urban development that had been neglected for decades. These projects aim to transform Addis Ababa into a city reflective of its name—a "New Flower"—by" expanding opportunities and meeting global standards to enhance competitiveness on the world stage.
This comprehensive urban development is enhancing the city's global standing and competitiveness, bringing significant social, political, and economic benefits. The recent inauguration of the Kazanchis Corridor Development serves as a tangible testament to this ongoing progress, reflecting aspirations for green, clean, and modern urban centers. These transformative works, undertaken despite acknowledged challenges, are achieving remarkable successes, demonstrating the generation’s tangible desire for fundamental change in the city and the nation.