AMN PLUS- June 24, 2026
Addis Ababa has officially joined the global “Breathe Cities” network, becoming one of 16 cities selected to participate in an international initiative aimed at improving urban air quality and protecting public health.
The announcement was made during London Climate Action Week, where Bloomberg Philanthropies revealed a USD 45 million investment to support participating cities in tackling air pollution through data-driven policies, sustainable urban planning, and climate-focused interventions. The program is implemented in partnership with the Clean Air Fund and C40 Cities.
Addis Ababa’s inclusion in the network is expected to reinforce the city’s ongoing efforts to improve air quality and create a healthier urban environment for its residents.
Speaking through her representative, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie said the city’s membership in the Breathe Cities network is a significant achievement and reflects the progress being made through Addis Ababa’s corridor development projects.
She noted that the initiative will support the city’s broader transformation agenda aimed at building a clean, green, beautiful, and livable capital. The partnership is also expected to help expand green spaces, develop bicycle lanes, and strengthen air-quality monitoring systems across the city.
Mayor Adanech further emphasized that, as Addis Ababa prepares to host COP32, participation in the Breathe Cities network will provide an opportunity to share the city’s experiences and best practices in air-quality management with cities across Africa and around the world.
Michael Bloomberg, United Nations Special Envoy on Climate Ambition and Solutions and founder of Bloomberg Philanthropies, highlighted the critical role of city leaders in addressing air pollution.
“Through Breathe Cities, mayors and city leaders continue to lead the way in improving air quality,” he said.
Bloomberg added that every step taken to reduce air pollution contributes to better public health outcomes and helps create healthier, more attractive cities in which to live and work.
In addition to Addis Ababa and Madrid, the Breathe Cities network includes Accra, Bangkok, Bogotá, Brasília, Jakarta, Johannesburg, London, Mexico City, Milan, Nairobi, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Sofia, and Warsaw.
According to the Addis Ababa Communication Bureau, the initiative provides a valuable platform for participating cities to collaborate, exchange experiences, and accelerate efforts to reduce air pollution while improving public health and urban sustainability.
