ADDIS ABABA — In a significant move to reshape the capital’s urban landscape, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) officially inaugurated the Entoto–Kebena River and Riverside Development Project on June 28, 2026. This massive initiative, described by officials as a “wonderful gift” to the residents, serves as a cornerstone of the city’s vision to become a climate-resilient, world-class tourism and economic hub.
Mayor Adanech Abebe highlighted that the project is a testament to the city administration’s commitment to addressing the basic needs and quality-of-life concerns of its citizens through high-impact, sustainable infrastructure.
Project at a Glance
Spanning a total area of 87.6 hectares with a reach of 10.5 kilometers, the development integrates environmental restoration, flood mitigation, and modern recreational facilities.
Environmental & Infrastructure Highlights
The project balances urban growth with ecological preservation through extensive engineering and green initiatives:
- Water & Flood Management: Includes 1 large dam, 16 smaller dams, 3 check dams, and 19.13 km of sewage and flood control lines.
- Bank Protection: Features a 20.2 km retaining wall and 36,928 square meters of specialized soil-protection landscaping (including gabion and terraced works).
- Green Spaces: A stunning 59.7 hectares of the project area has been dedicated to green development, complemented by the planting of over 50,330 trees of diverse species.
- Accessibility: A network of infrastructure includes 10.62 km of modern asphalt roads, 33.2 km of pedestrian walkways, and 33.2 km of modern street lighting.
World-Class Connectivity and Recreation
To facilitate easy movement for visitors and encourage community engagement, the project boasts an extensive bridge network and a variety of public amenities:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Bridges | 21 pedestrian bridges, 3 suspension bridges, 6 steel bridges, 1 circular bridge, and 1 concrete bridge. |
| Sports & Play | 9 sports venues and 7 children’s play areas. |
| Leisure & Culture | 2 amphitheaters, 2 public libraries, 4 meeting halls, 7 plazas, and 4 pavilions. |
| Services | 7 parking lots (695-vehicle capacity), 32 km of shopping areas, and 10 cafeterias. |
| Natural Beauty | 3 attractive waterfalls and 1 central water source designed to enhance the scenic appeal. |
A Vision for the Future
The Entoto–Kebena development is part of a broader, ongoing effort by the Addis Ababa City Administration to restore the city’s river systems—a program that has already seen the successful implementation of similar corridor development projects. By transforming previously degraded areas into vibrant, climate-resilient sanctuaries, the city aims to boost tourism, protect the ecosystem, and provide safe, clean spaces for residents to relax and connect.
In her remarks, Mayor Adanech Abebe extended her gratitude to the local community, project leaders, and all stakeholders whose collaboration and dedication ensured the project was delivered with both quality and speed. This initiative reinforces the city’s momentum in its ambitious journey toward modernization, ensuring that Addis Ababa remains a growing, attractive destination for both its inhabitants and international visitors.
