Inhabitants of Jimma Laud Corridor Development that Would Ignite City’s Rejuvenation

Addis Ababa December 9/2024 (ENA)—Residents of Jimma City have commended the ongoing corridor development project for transforming the city into a more stunning and comfortable urban space.

The project, which leverages the city’s natural and historical heritage, is being implemented with an emphasis on modernizing major streets and public squares.

 Ethiopia has embarked on a massive corridor development, particularly in the capital Addis Ababa and the East African nation is trying to expand this significant transformation into the other major cities of the country.

According to local residents of Jimma, the initiative has considerably improved the city's visual appeal and convenience. And they emphasized that the project is a shared responsibility and called for the collective participation of the community.

 Notably, efforts to widen key thoroughfares and establish designated pedestrian and vehicle lanes are expected to reduce traffic accidents and facilitate faster, safer mobility.

 The city of Jimma, known as a historical and commercial hub in southwestern Ethiopia, has long served as a key transit point for trade and tourism. Residents believe the Corridor Development Project is essential to preserve and enhance the city’s status as a vibrant economic and cultural destination.

 

 Bia Jemal is one of the residents who was approached by ENA and hoped that the ongoing corridor will certainly transform the face of Jimma, one of the ancient and largest towns in Ethiopia.

“I believe this development will give Jimma a new look worthy of its name, reflecting its unique beauty and character,” the resident remarked.

 Halima Hassan, another resident, noted that Jimma’s narrow roads and aging buildings had previously affected the city's appearance.

 Halima is confident that the corridor redevelopment initiative would help address these longstanding issues.

 The construction work is being carried out around the clock to ensure timely completion, The city’s mayor, Taha Kemer told ENA.“We are working day and night to make Jimma a modern, livable city for its residents,” he highlighted.  

       Taha Kemer, Jimma City’s Mayor

The mayor further noted that the fast-tracked implementation has already created numerous job opportunities for the local community.

 According to Taha, the Corridor Development Project is part of broader efforts to make Jimma a more attractive destination for investors and tourists alike. The project aims to enhance trade and social integration with neighboring areas, which is expected to boost the city’s economy.

 The mayor also disclosed that measures are being taken to provide adequate compensation and relocation support for those displaced by the development.

 This includes the construction of residential and commercial buildings for affected individuals, he pointed out.

 With ongoing efforts to improve roads, sidewalks, and public spaces, Jimma is on track to becoming a model city in southwestern Ethiopia.