ADAMA– The Addis Ababa Leadership Academy has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the implementation of research-based recommendations aimed at accelerating the capital’s socioeconomic development.
Speaking at the opening of the academy’s 4th City-Based Research Conference, held in Adama from April 5–6, Academy President Tassew Gebre(PhD) stressed that while research has been conducted on various aspects of Addis Ababa’s development, translating findings into action remains essential.
Held under the theme: “Problem-Solving Research for Our City’s Prosperity,” the conference brought together senior officials from the Addis Ababa City Administration, members of the academy’s management board, researchers, and other key stakeholders.
“Addis Ababa is undergoing rapid transformation in infrastructure, service delivery, and institutional reform,” said Tassew. “To sustain this momentum, decisions must be informed by evidence, and this requires implementing the outcomes of our research initiatives.”
Tassew highlighted that Ethiopia has made significant socioeconomic strides in recent years, with Addis Ababa positioned to become a model city in terms of prosperity and modernization. He added that the academy plays a vital role in this effort by conducting research, providing training, and offering advisory and community-based services.
According to the academy, it has so far trained over 66,000 individuals, conducted 44 research studies, delivered 13 consultation projects and offered 11 communities outreach programs.
Also speaking at the event, the Academy’s Research and Development Director Abinet Fulasa (PhD) noted a growing culture of applied research that
is positively influencing decision-making and problem-solving in city governance.
He emphasized the importance of ongoing studies to evaluate leadership performance in rapidly urbanizing cities such as Addis Ababa.
“Sustained growth requires leadership that is visionary, emotionally intelligent, and aligned with the city’s strategic goals,” Abinet said.
Two of five planned research papers were presented on the first day of the conference. The studies revealed that despite Addis Ababa’s status as a fast-growing international city, there is a gap in leadership competency, particularly in aligning with the city’s long-term vision.
The findings recommended the development of a leadership competency framework, the reform of deployment strategies, the establishment of specialized departments, and the expansion of capacity-building efforts to support institutional development.
Participants actively discussed the research outcomes, exchanging ideas on how best to implement the suggested reforms and ensure they contribute to the city’s modernization and inclusive growth.
The conference continues through April 6, with additional presentations and deliberations scheduled.
BY YOHANES JEMANEH
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 6 APRIL 2025
