In a recent ceremony recognizing the completion of the first phase of the Addis Ababa Corridor Project, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the upcoming demolition of the Kasanchis area as part of the city’s ongoing urban transformation efforts. The demolition is part of a broader initiative aimed at modernizing key infrastructure and improving connectivity throughout the capital.
During his speech, PM Abiy assigned six city officials to lead different phases of the project, with a focus on key areas of Addis Ababa. The Prime Minister also addressed the diplomatic community’s initial hesitation in supporting the project, expressing his expectation that their stance would shift as the project moves into its next phase.
Impact on Businesses and Communities
The Corridor Project has led to significant changes in many parts of Addis Ababa, affecting medium and small businesses along its route. The demolition of business areas, including popular sites such as Gurd Sholla, the Bole area (notably mobile stores), Kera, Piassa, and 4 Kilo, has forced many businesses to either close or relocate. These areas, known for their vibrant commercial activity, have seen a reduction in business operations as demolition work progresses.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the changes brought about by the corridor project are essential for long-term urban development, despite the challenges faced by business owners. Local authorities have been tasked with managing the transitions and providing support where possible.
Corridor Project Phases in Addis Ababa
Six city officials have been appointed to lead specific phases of the corridor project, with each focusing on different urban areas:
- Adanech Abebe (Mayor of Addis Ababa): Meskel Square–Mexico–Adwa Dildey corridor.
- Deputy Mayor Janterebaw Abay: South Gate–Megenagna–Meskel Square corridor.
- Moges Balcha: Italy Embassy–Ginfele–Kebena–Aware River project.
- Ato Tiratu: Africa Convention Center–Goro (CMC area).
- Dr. Jemalu: 4 Kilo–Shiro Meda–Entoto and Botanical area.
- Ato Tilahun: Entoto–Piassa–Friendship–Peacock Riverside project.
Additionally, the completion of the Chaka Project is expected to add 1/3 of the current size of Addis Ababa to the city, further contributing to the capital’s development.
Expansion to Regional Cities
In addition to the work in Addis Ababa, the corridor project is set to expand to other regional cities. To facilitate this, Addis Ababa city officials have been paired with regional mayors to share expertise and oversee similar projects. The partnerships include:
- Gondar and Bishoftu: Partnering with Adanech Abebe.
- Dessie and Semera Corridor: Led by Deputy Mayor Janterebaw Abay.
- Jigjiga: Managed by Ato Moges Balcha.
- Harar City: Supervised by Engineer Mohammed.
- Arbaminch: Led by Ato Tiratu.
- Hawassa: Managed by Alemetsehay Yohannes.
- Bahir Dar, Adama, and Sheger: Overseeing their own corridor projects.
PM Abiy noted that any sub-city not currently included in the six major corridors can undertake its own demolition and redevelopment efforts as part of the project’s broader vision.
While the corridor project has already resulted in widespread urban transformation, the next phases aim to enhance the capital’s infrastructure further, with an increasing focus on expanding the initiative to other cities across Ethiopia. The Prime Minister’s vision for the future includes continued collaboration with the diplomatic community and broader support for Ethiopia’s ambitious urban renewal projects.
