Shaping The Future: The Second Phase Of Addis Ababa’s Corridor Development

Walking through the streets of Addis Ababa today, one cannot help but marvel at the scale and speed of the transformation underway. The Second Phase of the Corridor Development Project is not merely an infrastructural upgrade; it is a profound reimagining of what this city can become. From cleaner neighborhoods to modern amenities, this ambitious initiative addresses long-standing challenges while paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

As someone living in Addis Ababa and working in the Mayor’s Office, I have witnessed firsthand the unwavering dedication of the city’s leadership and my colleagues in the city administration to this transformative development. In countless meetings, the mayor has consistently underscored the urgency and precision required for this project, issuing clear and strict directives to ensure no detail is overlooked. This steadfast commitment is rooted in a deep understanding of what is at stake: people’s lives, their dignity, and the city’s future.

Behind the scenes, city employees working on the Corridor Development Project have shown extraordinary commitment, often working in shifts around the clock to keep the project on schedule. Supervisors, including high-ranking city officials and staff, endure difficult conditions—braving harsh weather, risking their safety, and sacrificing precious time with their loved ones. Yet, they press on with a deep sense of fulfillment, knowing their efforts are contributing to a project that is making a real difference in people’s lives. For many, this is more than just a job; it is a historic opportunity to be part of a legacy that will redefine Addis Ababa.

I recently ran into a colleague who exemplifies this incredible dedication. Despite fracturing his arm while working on the second phase of the corridor and enduring post-operative pain—with needles and pins still holding his arm together—his positive energy was nothing short of humbling. The way he downplayed his injury while emphasizing the thrill and privilege of contributing to such a vital project became one of the many inspiring stories of honor and service.

Moments like these serve as powerful reminders of the resilience and spirit of the people driving this transformation. Of course, like any city, Addis Ababa has its imperfections, but they do not overshadow the unwavering commitment of those pouring their heart and soul into building a brighter future. Witnessing this firsthand, I am deeply moved by the passion and determination that make this work so meaningful. It is a testament to incredible individuals like my colleague who are shaping this city’s future, one step at a time.

Balancing Progress and Community

Every transformation comes with challenges, and this one is no exception. While many residents have embraced the changes, there are also voices of discontent. For families with deep-rooted ties to their neighborhoods, relocating to areas farther from the city center has been a difficult adjustment. However, the city administration has prioritized providing better living arrangements and ensuring that relocations occur only when necessary. Efforts are also being made to keep communities intact by relocating residents alongside their original neighbors whenever possible. In many cases, those relocated move to more modern homes, offering improved living conditions and a fresh start while striving to preserve their sense of belonging.

During a visit to the newly developed relocation site in Gelan Gura, I witnessed firsthand the stark contrast between the old living conditions in the shanty government housing in Kasanchiz and the newly constructed community. The relocation site boasts modern amenities, including newly built schools, a sports center, and children’s playgrounds, creating a far more supportive and vibrant environment for residents. Unlike the cramped, substandard kebele houses common in areas like Kasanchiz, the new homes are spacious, well-constructed, and equipped with modern facilities. This transformation is not just about providing physical shelter but also about fostering a thriving community where residents have access to essential services, improved living conditions, and opportunities for a better quality of life.

Yet, not all experiences are as uplifting. Some residents express concerns about being relocated farther from the city center, fearing the loss of proximity to their workplaces and social networks—valid concerns that cannot be overlooked. However, these challenges must be weighed against the significant benefits of improved living standards, enhanced access to essential services, and opportunities for growth. Together, these perspectives reveal both the complexities and the promise of this ambitious transformation.

What was once considered a remote part of Addis Ababa—the CMC area—has now transformed into a thriving hub of activity and opportunity. I firmly believe that these new neighborhoods will follow the same path, evolving into vibrant, self-sustaining communities in no time. Change may be difficult, but it holds the promise of a brighter future for many.

Cities undergoing major transformations often face similar challenges, and Addis Ababa is no exception. Take Washington, D.C., for example. In the mid-20th century, large-scale urban renewal projects in the U.S. capital displaced many long-term residents, particularly those from marginalized communities, as neighborhoods were redeveloped to accommodate modern infrastructure and housing. While the process was controversial and painful for many, Washington, D.C., eventually adopted policies to preserve community ties. These included incorporating affordable housing into redevelopment projects and investing in public infrastructure to benefit all residents.

Addis Ababa is following a similar path by actively implementing initiatives to address these challenges. The city is building low-income housing and leveraging public-private partnerships to ensure communities remain central to its development. While the journey is ongoing, Washington, D.C.’s experience serves as a powerful example of how cities can balance growth with inclusivity. Today, D.C. stands as a more inclusive and livable city, demonstrating that thoughtful policies and a commitment to community can create a brighter future for all.

Addis Ababa’s Safety, Public Health, and Behavior

The transformation of Addis Ababa is much more than a facelift; it’s a lifeline. It represents a bold reimagining of the city, spearheaded by the Prime Minister’s ambitious vision. This project is not only reshaping the skyline but also profoundly impacting the lives of its residents and redefining the country’s working culture. It reflects a commitment to progress, fostering a sense of pride and optimism, while laying the foundation for a more modern, efficient, and inclusive urban environment. I believe it’s a testament to visionary leadership, paired with collective action and determination.

It should be noted that the corridor development also tackles long-standing safety and public health challenges that have plagued informal settlements for decades. Overcrowding and poor sanitation, which once turned shanty neighborhoods into firetraps and hubs for chronic respiratory illnesses, are finally being addressed. The installation of fire hydrants, proper drainage systems, and wastewater management infrastructure is more than just an upgrade; it’s a game-changer. These additions are creating safer, healthier environments that were once out of reach for thousands of families.

But the transformation doesn’t stop there. The city administration is dedicated to creating vibrant, livable spaces, with the second phase of the corridor set to include 110 recreational plazas, 53 children’s playgrounds, and 23 sports facilities. In neighborhoods that have already undergone changes during the first phase, the impact is clear. Families now gather in plazas to relax, children play safely, and both residents and tourists capture memories in areas that were unimaginable just months ago. These spaces represent more than just amenities; they stand as powerful symbols of progress and possibility.

I believe the economic ripple effects that follow can be just as profound. The second phase of the corridor development can significantly increase Addis’s potential to become a magnet for investment and tourism. Enhanced functionality and aesthetics will draw businesses, boosting the hospitality and retail sectors, and igniting cultural tourism. From my observation, the unfolding plan is not just about short-term wins but about creating sustainable job opportunities and offering residents access to more options. The result is a growing sense of hope, a belief that this city can indeed be a place of opportunity for all.

Walking through the transformed streets of Addis Ababa, the momentum in the air is palpable. This is more than just new buildings and wider roads—it’s a city discovering its true potential and reshaping its future. Pride in the faces of residents and visible progress at every corner tell a powerful story of change. It fills me with deep joy to see the city I hold so dear thriving, evolving, and opening new opportunities for a brighter tomorrow.

Ledet Muleta is an advisor at the Strategic Programs Management Office, Addis Ababa City Administration, Mayor’s Office.

Contributed by Ledet Muleta