AMN Plus-March 26/2026
The corridor development underway in Addis Ababa is guided by three key pillars, Accessibility, Affordability, and Attractiveness, which serve as major indicators in improving the social and economic lives of residents.
As highlighted by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), these principles are aligned with the broader vision of building a city that is comfortable and livable for human beings.
1. Accessibility
Accessibility refers to ensuring that every segment of society can benefit from and make use of the city’s infrastructure without barriers. Within Addis Ababa’s corridor development, this principle is being implemented through three major approaches
Pedestrian and Bicycle Lanes
The construction of wide, convenient, and safe walkways, along with dedicated bicycle lanes, allows residents to move freely, securely, and in a healthier manner, all while reducing transportation costs.
Inclusivity
Newly built roads and public facilities are designed to accommodate persons with disabilities, the elderly, and children, making mobility easier and more inclusive for all members of society.
Integrated Infrastructure Development
Essential urban services such as electricity, water, sewerage, and fiber-optic networks are being installed in a coordinated manner, enabling residents to access these services more efficiently and reliably at their doorsteps.
2. Affordability
Affordability ensures that urban services and facilities are aligned with the economic capacity of residents, making city life more manageable and sustainable for all.
Reducing Travel Costs
With roads being widened and traffic flow improved, residents are spending less time, fuel, and money on transportation, easing the financial burden of daily commuting.
Creating New Business Opportunities
Small commercial spaces and small shops developed along the corridor are opening doors for low-income residents to engage in business activities, generate income, and improve their livelihoods.
Improving Residential Villages
Neighborhoods inhabited by low-income residents are being upgraded without displacement, allowing communities to remain in place while gaining improved access to essential services such as clean water, sanitation, and better urban amenities at lower cost.
3. Attractiveness
Attractiveness means that a city should not only be functional and livable, but also visually appealing, welcoming, and enjoyable as a place for leisure, recreation, and investment.
Green Development
The planting of trees, flowers, and the creation of public recreational spaces along the corridor is enhancing Addis Ababa’s beauty while also promoting a cleaner and more environmental friendly urban landscape.
Nighttime Business
Modern street lighting is improving public safety, beautifying the city at night, and helping to stimulate evening commercial activity by creating a more vibrant nighttime business.
Urban Beauty
The renovation and repainting of older buildings have significantly improved the city’s visual appeal, further strengthening Addis Ababa’s image as an attractive destination for tourists, investors, and residents alike.
A Vision Taking Shape
When these three pillars, Accessibility, Affordability, and Attractiveness, work together in an integrated manner, the vision of creating a city that is comfortable and livable for human beings moves closer to reality.
