The Addis Ababa City Administration has kicked off the second phase of its corridor development project. It is designed to enhance the infrastructure and living standards within the capital. Mayor Adanech Abebe officially announced the initiative and took the time to answer questions from the media about its scope and specifics.
This new phase of development will cover 132 kilometers and encompass 2,817 hectares, featuring the construction of over 4,000 homes for residents who will need to relocate. Additionally, there is a budget of 5 billion birr set aside for compensating those impacted by the project.
Mayor Adanech highlighted that this initiative is part of a larger vision to improve the city's infrastructure and livability, ensuring that all residents, particularly marginalized communities, can benefit from these enhancements. The project will include various infrastructure improvements such as road construction, green spaces, and recreational areas, all aimed at transforming Addis Ababa into a more vibrant and inclusive city.
The city is taking the lead in financing and managing the project, with substantial backing from Ethio Telecom, the Federal Housing Corporation, and the Electricity Service. These entities are anticipated to play a crucial role in enhancing their infrastructures, which is essential for the overarching goal of transforming Addis Ababa into a “smart city.”
This development phase includes eight key corridors. The Kazanchis to Estinfanos Corridor stretches 40.4 kilometers and encompasses 1,000 hectares, featuring important locations like Meskel Square and Churchill. The Southgate to Meskel Square Corridor is 7.1 kilometers long, covering 128.7 hectares and linking Southgate with Haya Hulet. The CMC to New Africa International Convention Center Corridor spans 10.8 kilometers and includes the VIP terminal at Bole Airport.
Other corridors include the Sar Bet to Fury Square Corridor, the Anbessa Garage to Jacross Goro Corridor, the 4 Kilo to Gulele Botany Center Corridor, the Kebena Riverbank Corridor, and the Entoto to Peacock Park Riverside Corridor, each contributing to the city's ambitious transformation.
The mayor emphasized that the project aligns with the directives set forth by the Prime Minister, assuring that more details will be shared as the work progresses. She highlighted the city administration's extensive efforts to facilitate the seamless relocation of residents impacted by the project, which includes building schools, workspaces, and over 500 commercial shops.
Additionally, she expressed confidence in the preparations made by the city to support those affected, ensuring that their needs are prioritized during this transition. The mayor's commitment to transparency and community welfare was evident as she outlined the steps being taken to create a supportive environment for everyone involved.