ADDIS ABABA – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has called on cities across Ethiopia to prioritize citizen-centered approaches to urban development as he inaugurated the newly completed Anbesa Garage–Jukrose–Goro Square corridor in Addis Ababa.
Accompanied by Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, the Prime Minister officially opened the revitalized corridor on Sunday.
In a social media post, the Prime Minister emphasized, “I encourage other sub-cities and cities across the country to keep prioritizing citizen-centered approaches as we reimagine and reconfigure urban life for the better.”
The redevelopment project, which spans from Anbesa Garage to Goro Square via Jakros, includes an 8-kilometer pedestrian walkway, a 4-kilometer cycle lane, parking facilities, children’s playgrounds, standardized shops, public plazas, public toilets, and designated taxi and bus bays.
“The development of the Anbesa Garage – Jukrose – Goro Square corridor has brought transformative changes to a once congested area,” PM Abiy noted in his post. “It has revitalized the neighborhood, making it more accessible, inclusive, and livable for all.”
Highlighting national urban renewal efforts, he added, “Corridor development projects across both urban and rural settings continue to introduce dignified, equitable public spaces that uplift communities.”
The Prime Minister also noted that recent rural corridor initiatives are focused on rejuvenating rural areas and enhancing residents’ quality of life.
He extended his appreciation to the Addis Ababa City Administration and sub-cities that mobilized resources to expand the corridor initiative into the city’s peripheral areas, emphasizing the importance of collaborative development efforts.
As Ethiopia undergoes rapid urbanization, PM Abiy’s message underscores the government’s commitment to citizen-focused urban planning aimed at building equitable, accessible, and livable cities nationwide.
The redeveloped corridor now features a wide range of modern urban amenities, including a dedicated pedestrian walkway, a 4-kilometer cycling lane, public toilets, and standardized retail spaces.
These upgrades align with broader corridor development efforts across Addis Ababa that aim to improve walkability, encourage alternative transportation, and enhance the overall urban experience.
According to the Office of the Prime Minister, the infrastructure upgrade directly addresses the chronic congestion that previously afflicted the area, representing a significant milestone in the city’s ongoing modernization efforts.
“I extend my sincere appreciation to the Addis Ababa City Administration and the sub-cities that have mobilized resources to expand the corridor initiative into the city’s peripheral areas. I encourage other sub-cities and cities across the country to keep prioritizing citizen-centered approaches as we reimagine and reconfigure urban life for the better,” Abiy wrote.
Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, for her part, stated that the infrastructure is also generating jobs for thousands of residents by supporting a wide range of businesses along the corridor.
She reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to citizen-centered development, aiming to deliver a clean, beautiful, and livable city for residents, while also positioning Addis Ababa as an attractive destination for visitors.
BY STAFF REPORTER
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 10 JUNE 2025
