AMN PLUS-March 12/2026
The Anbessa City Bus Service Enterprise stands as one of the key institutions shaping the social and economic heartbeat of Addis Ababa.
Following Ethiopia’s victory over the Fascist Italian forces, the city bus service began operations by organizing and utilizing garages and vehicles that had been left behind by the defeated army.
The service was initially administered under the then Ministry of Works and Communications.
This modest beginning marked a historic step, not only addressing the country’s pressing transportation challenges at the time, but also laying the foundation for developing Ethiopia’s technical and vehicle maintenance capacity.
Public transport service in the capital first started with five “Trenta Quattro” buses operating on five routes.
Today, the enterprise has grown into a major transportation and technology institution, providing daily services for more than 1.3 million residents.
The company is currently modernizing its operations and expanding service coverage, helping significantly ease the city’s transportation burden while improving mobility across the capital.
At present, the enterprise operates more than 1,239 buses, connecting Addis Ababa with Sheger City.
The daily number of passengers served has increased from 1.1 million to 1.3 million, with services now running on 192 regular routes.
In addition, the enterprise is working to further improve efficiency and service delivery by introducing digital systems and modern operational technologies.
Over the decades, Anbessa City Bus Service Enterprise has grown into a major public institution, creating employment opportunities for more than 6,475 citizens.
By transporting millions of passengers and facilitating daily movement across the capital, the company continues to play an irreplaceable role in supporting the social and economic activities in Addis Ababa.
By Leta Teresa
