Addis ababa: The Ministry of Urban and Infrastructure announced that corridor development activities aimed at transforming urban infrastructure are currently underway in 75 cities across Ethiopia.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, State Minister of Urban and Infrastructure Fanta Dejen revealed in an exclusive interview that the corridor development initiative, launched in Addis Ababa in 2024 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has expanded to 75 cities across the regional states as urbanization continues to accelerate. He noted that the pace of urban growth in Ethiopia has been increasing over the past decade, with the number of cities now reaching 2,500, up from about 1,000 ten years ago.
Fanta explained that the initiative is designed to transform urban infrastructure and create cities that are safe, clean, and comfortable for residents. Addis Ababa has already witnessed significant transformation through intensive corridor development works, including riverside development projects, road expansion, pedestrian walkways, bicycle lanes, jogging tracks, and the construction of bridges for both vehicles and pedestrians, alongside the development of green areas.
The state minister highlighted that the city's riversides, previously polluted and neglected, have been rehabilitated and turned into attractive public destinations. Beyond beautification and infrastructure expansion, the program also incorporates the digitalization of public services in the 75 cities as part of broader efforts to build smart and efficient urban centers.
Fanta added that the corridor development initiative is being implemented in line with sustainable urban development principles, ensuring that cities integrate green spaces, public areas, and essential infrastructure. He affirmed that the initiative will gradually expand to cover all cities across the country with the goal of creating resilient, safe, and livable urban environments for residents.