With parks and public libraries being constructed across the city, Addis Ababa now offers more to both locals and tourists. The vibrant city has not stopped growing, both in terms of population and economy. Modernization is currently taking place, and it is happening very rapidly. Addis Ababa, which means “new flower,” is undergoing significant change in several areas. It’s growing in popularity as a travel destination. There are current initiatives that would boost tourism activities in the city. The city, one of the busiest on the continent, regularly hosts several international meetings and conferences. The construction of multiple opulent hotels and has elevated the city to prominence as a meeting place.
Bole International Airport serves millions of tourists and travellers annually and the city benefits from being home to the renowned Airlines which the largest in Africa. This has made it possible to entice tourists to spend some time in the city.
In addition to serving as the capital of Africa, the city is also home to several international institutions, including the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), which is a branch of the UN, and the Organization of African Union (OAU). As a result, Addis has succeeded in positioning itself among New York and Geneva on the short list of reputable diplomatic cities.
The city is currently experiencing better times as new facilities start to take shape. The Diplomatic and Historical Center is expanding its offerings with new parks and museums. The city is expanding quickly and is home to several regional, continental, and international organizations. There are new buildings everywhere, and the city is undergoing extensive reconstruction. The city is becoming more beautiful with the addition of new buildings and roadways. The city now has an unusual appearance thanks to the Unity, Friendship, and Entoto parks along the Riverside project, which is still under construction.
The city has become among the largest diplomatic hubs in the world, he said, adding efforts will continue to make Addis Ababa a comfortable seat to both the diplomatic community and international organizations, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on its weekly pressers.
134 countries have their diplomatic missions in Addis Ababa. The number of African countries that have opened diplomatic missions in Addis Ababa has reached 53. Cape Verde and Armenia are the newest additions to the ever-growing number of diplomatic missions in Addis Ababa.
Cape Verde and Armenia recently opened their embassies in Addis Ababa, bringing the total number of diplomatic missions in the metropolis to 134, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) announced.
At a weekly press briefing he held this week, the newly-appointed MoFA Spokesperson Nebiyu Tedla said that the opening of the two embassies is an indication of Addis Ababa’s growing place in continental and global diplomacy.
Following the opening of the two embassies, the total number of missions in Addis Ababa has reached 134, of which 52 African countries have been running legations here. Last week, the two countries’ ambassadors presented their credentials to President Sahlework Zewde along with 15 other envoys.
Addis Ababa’s diplomatic prowess is growing as several countries have been opening their embassies in the metropolis. Countries that had no official diplomatic relations with Ethiopia are now engaged with the East African nation in bilateral and multilateral areas of mutual benefits, Nebiyu elaborated.
The spokesperson further stated that Malta’s Foreign Minister will pay an official visit to Ethiopia after a few days. “The Ethio-Malta Business Forum was held here recently and their diplomatic and economic ties have intensified since the latter’s opening of the embassy in Addis Ababa and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s (PhD) visit to Valetta.
The Maltase government is providing training for Ethiopian naval forces and its businesses have shown a growing desire to explore the East African country’s trade and investment potential, he remarked.
Addis Ababa continues to grow and evolve as a major urban centre in Ethiopia, and the need for robust infrastructure development, particularly in the area of road expansion projects, has become increasingly apparent. The city’s road network is often plagued by congestion, delays, and safety concerns, making it imperative for the government to prioritize and commit to improving and expanding the existing infrastructure to meet the needs of its residents and businesses.
It is encouraging to see that the administration has shown a commitment towards road expansion projects in Addis Ababa. Over the past few years, significant efforts have been made to improve the city’s road network, with new projects being implemented to widen existing roads, construct new thoroughfares, and enhance pedestrian walkways. This commitment is vital in addressing the growing demand for efficient and safe transportation within the city.
However, while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done. The current state of some roads in Addis Ababa remains subpar, leading to traffic congestion, accidents, and delays. Furthermore, the lack of proper pedestrian walkways and cycling lanes poses a safety risk for those who rely on alternative modes of transportation.
To truly make a sustainable impact, it is essential that the administration not only initiates road expansion projects but also ensures that these projects are carried out efficiently and effectively. This includes proper planning, coordination with relevant stakeholders, and utilizing sustainable design practices to create a more liveable and environmentally friendly urban environment.
Additionally, transparency and accountability in the execution of road expansion projects are paramount. The administration must prioritize the allocation of resources towards infrastructure development and ensure that funds are used effectively to maximize the benefits for the city and its residents.
The federal police, the city police, and special uniformed groups are stationed in almost every neighbourhood and are tasked with monitoring and controlling the movements of suspected criminals and criminal suspects as well as swiftly preventing illicit activities. Addis is the safest city in the country due to the constant presence of heavy security forces. As a result, crime has continued to be incredibly low, and potential perpetrators are discouraged by persistent and watchful security troops.
By investing in sustainable and well-maintained infrastructure, the city can improve mobility, enhance safety, and create a more vibrant and sustainable urban landscape. As Addis Ababa continues to grow and evolve as a major urban centre in Ethiopia, the government must prioritize and commit to improving and expanding the existing infrastructure to meet the needs of its residents and businesses.
In conclusion, while the administration has shown a commitment towards road expansion projects in Addis Ababa, there is a need for continued dedication and investment in infrastructure development to create a more vibrant and sustainable urban landscape. By prioritizing efficient and safe transportation options, the city can enhance the quality of life for its residents and support economic growth for years to come. Let us hold the administration accountable for their promises and work together towards building a better future for Addis Ababa.
BY STAFF REPORTER
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 23 MARCH 2024
