AMN Plus-May 25, 2026
In a message shared on her official social media page, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie announced the official inauguration of an Integrated Urban Agriculture Center in Lemi Kura Sub-City. The newly launched facility, constructed on three hectares of land, includes 18 commercial shops and 18 agricultural sheds aimed at strengthening urban farming and market access.
The Mayor emphasized that Addis Ababa is a shared city that embraces all residents equally, noting that the city administration’s development agenda is designed to ensure inclusive growth and equitable participation.
Reflecting on past challenges, Mayor Adanech stated that under the previous system, farmers were often marginalized, with greater attention given to acquiring their land while overlooking their livelihoods and long-term wellbeing. She noted that this injustice became one of the key drivers behind the reform process and the ongoing transformation efforts.
According to the Mayor, the city administration is working not only to ensure that farmers are fully included in urban development programs, but also to make them direct beneficiaries of development projects, alongside receiving fair and appropriate compensation whenever relocation becomes necessary.
“As part of this broader commitment, we previously established a 14,000-hectare Integrated Agricultural Products Excellence Center in Akaki Kality Sub-City, and the center inaugurated today in Lemi Kura is a continuation of that initiative,” the Mayor stated.
Mayor Adanech further highlighted that such integrated agricultural centers play a vital role in easing the rising cost of living for urban residents by improving access to agricultural products at fair and affordable prices. She added that these initiatives contribute to inclusive economic growth and shared prosperity across the city.
Concluding her message, the Mayor extended her heartfelt appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to the planning, coordination, and successful implementation of the project on the ground.
By Birhanu Workneh
