AMN PLUS-May 19,2026
The cleanup and redevelopment of previously neglected areas in Addis Ababa have significantly improved the comfort and quality of life of residents, according to the authors of the book titled The Remaking of Addis Ababa.
Among those who closely observed the city’s rapid transformation are Ethiopian scholar Hirpo Kumbi and British writer Professor Simon Lee.
The two authors said the remarkable changes taking place in Addis Ababa inspired them to write the book, which documents the city’s transformation and highlights lessons other cities can learn from its experience.
Hirpho Kumbi (PhD), author of The Remaking of Addis Ababa, said the city has changed dramatically for the better and continues to evolve rapidly.
He recalled that even Bole Street, once considered one of the better parts of the city, previously suffered from unpleasant conditions and bad odors. However, after returning to Addis Ababa following several months away, he was struck by the significant improvements that had taken place.
He explained that he witnessed visible changes across many parts of the city during his personal visits and noted that development projects launched in Addis Ababa are being completed within a short period of time.
According to him, these rapid transformations motivated him to study the changes more deeply and eventually document them in a book as an Ethiopian scholar.
British writer Professor Simon Lee also emphasized that readers of the book will gain a broader understanding of the city’s ongoing transformation, including developments such as the Adwa Victory Memorial and stories of women whose lives have improved through the city’s redevelopment initiatives.
“Addis Ababa can offer us more lessons than we could ever offer it,” he said. “Our research has revealed that the remarkable progress the city has achieved within a short period places it among the world’s fastest-transforming cities.”
Simon Lee further highlighted the importance of vision, committed leadership, and institutional coordination in achieving such success.
The author also praised the collaborative efforts of Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie and other city officials, stating that the administration has worked to ensure public participation in the development process.
The authors concluded that if Ethiopia maintains its current momentum and economic growth trajectory, Addis Ababa will continue to emerge as a better and more competitive city.
The book, The Remaking of Addis Ababa, provides a comprehensive review of the major development projects carried out in the city over recent years and serves as an important contribution to documenting Addis Ababa’s rapid urban transformation.
The book was officially launched in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh and Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie.
By Leta Teresa
