AMN Plus-June 29, 2026
In a message shared on her official social media page, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie announced the official opening of the Entoto–Kebena River and Riverside Development Project and the Kebena Dam Project, describing them as another remarkable gift to the residents of the capital.
“Today, we officially opened for public service another remarkable gift for the residents of our city, the Entoto–Kebena River and Riverside Development Project and the Kebena Dam Project, inaugurated by His Excellency Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD),” the Mayor stated.
Mayor Adanech noted that Addis Ababa continues to provide practical and sustainable solutions to the needs and basic demands of its residents through the implementation of major development initiatives that reflect the aspirations of its people and the stature of the nation’s capital.
According to the Mayor, the newly inaugurated project has significantly enhanced the beauty, elegance, and attractiveness of Addis Ababa while creating valuable recreational, environmental, and public service spaces for residents and visitors alike.
She emphasized that the project was completed within a short period of time and to a high standard of quality under the vision and guidance of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. When viewed alongside the city’s ongoing corridor and riverside development initiatives, she said, the project represents a transformative undertaking that will elevate Addis Ababa into a premier international tourist destination and strengthen its reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful and livable cities.
The Entoto–Kebena River and Riverside Development Project covers a total area of 87.6 hectares and stretches over 10.5 kilometers. It incorporates a wide range of public amenities, environmental conservation measures, and recreational facilities designed to improve the quality of urban life.
Among the major components of the project are one large dam, 16 small dams, three check dams, a 1.2-kilometer hiking trail, and 20.2 kilometers of river retaining walls. To enhance the natural landscape, the development also includes three artificial waterfalls and a water spring feature. Furthermore, 36,928 square meters of Konso gabion and terracing works have been completed to strengthen soil conservation and environmental protection efforts.
Environmental sustainability remains a central feature of the project. A total of 59.7 hectares of green development space has been created, while 50,330 trees of various species have been planted throughout the area to improve biodiversity and urban ecology.
In terms of infrastructure development, the project includes 10.62 kilometers of modern asphalt roads, 33.2 kilometers of pedestrian walkways, and 33.2 kilometers of modern street-lighting networks. Additionally, 19.13 kilometers of drainage and flood-control systems have been installed to improve resilience against flooding and ensure effective water management. To enhance accessibility and connectivity, the development features 21 pedestrian bridges, three suspension bridges, six steel pedestrian bridges, one circular bridge, and one concrete bridge, allowing visitors to move safely and conveniently across different sections of the river corridor.
The project also places strong emphasis on recreation and community services. Facilities include nine sports and fitness centers, seven parking areas with a combined capacity of 695 vehicles, four public gathering spaces, seven plazas, and four pavilions.
For leisure and commercial activities, the development incorporates retail shops, two amphitheaters, ten cafeterias, seven children’s playgrounds, and two small public libraries, creating vibrant public spaces that can serve residents of all ages.
Mayor Adanech expressed confidence that the project will become one of Addis Ababa’s landmark destinations, contributing to tourism growth, environmental sustainability, and improved urban living standards.
Finally, on behalf of the Addis Ababa City Administration, the Mayor extended her sincere appreciation to government leaders at all levels, project teams, and local community members who worked tirelessly day and night, coordinated their efforts, and provided unwavering support to ensure the successful completion of the massive project within the planned timeframe and according to the required quality standards.
By Birhanu Workneh
