Engaging in dialogue with residents
ADDIS ABABA – Propelling community concerns in corridor development projects is crucial for timely and impactful execution, the Addis Ababa Mayor said.
Mayor Adanech Abebie made the above remark yesterday during a wide-ranging discussion with city administrators, residents, religious institutions, and other stakeholders.
The dialogue aimed to assess the progress of ongoing development projects and chart a path forward. The mayor underscored that the redevelopment efforts have made the capital more livable and dignified for all residents, not just the wealthy. “Our priority is to ensure the city lives up to its name by addressing the needs of every citizen,” she stated.
The mayor pledged to incorporate participants’ feedback, describing stakeholder engagement as an essential platform for inclusive insights and valuable contributions. She applauded residents for their role in the project’s progress, which aligns with plans to nurture responsible generations and combat poverty.
Adanech further indicated that the administration aims to improve socioeconomic development while creating a city that guarantees a dignified life for all. In the first phase of redevelopment, 8.7 billion Birr was disbursed to compensate private homeowners.
The Cabinet Affairs Head Tilahun Worku stressed that Addis Ababa’s role as a hub for international diplomacy requires leveraging the “latecomer advantage” by implementing inclusive development. He reported that 50,000 jobs were created, SMEs were stimulated, and working cultures within communities improved during the project’s first phase.
However, challenges such as construction input shortages, skill gaps, unseasonal rainfall, and resident awareness issues affected progress. Addressing these setbacks, Tilahun stressed the importance of continued public engagement to ensure residents are actively involved in the next phases.
The project also sets the stage for new developments, including the construction of an international convention center and enhanced conference tourism.
Participants raised concerns about infrastructure, social welfare, sustainable settlements, and the need for fair compensation. They urged leadership to streamline pro-poor initiatives, conduct research-based development, and address bureaucratic delays affecting the project’s progress.
The city administration reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring inclusive, research-driven development to make Addis Ababa a model of sustainable growth and livability for all its citizens.
BY ASHENAFI ANIMUT
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER 2024
