African Journalists Admire Addis Ababa's Infrastructure Growth

Addis Ababa, September 20, 2025 (ENA) -- Journalists from various African countries who toured Ethiopia have been amazed by the tremendous infrastructure growth in Addis Ababa, terming the city a model for Africa.

Jackson Okata, a Kenyan journalist who was visiting Addis Ababa for the first time, added that he was struck by the good planning of the city.

 

"Addis Ababa is a smart city that all other African cities should emulate, with its wide roads for vehicles, pedestrian paths, motorbike paths, and advanced freeways," he clarified.

"There is not much traffic jam compared to our place of origin. Automobiles respect road rules, there is no over-speeding, and roads are not jammed. It's so well-planned," he added further.

Okata urged other African capitals adopt Addis Ababa's model for urban planning.

"I like Addis, and I wish I could return. I would like to visit every other African capital city and tell them to come to Addis and see how a capital is planned," he said.

Far from the confusing image he had envisioned, he experienced the city to be calm and organized, mentioning how much he wishes to return and visit again, including touring the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).

Journalist Catherine Tembo from Malawi also speaks about her impressions.

 

She called Addis Ababa's change "amazing." She added, "Addis Ababa is much more developed than the capital cities of other African countries”.

Tembo added that the roads are very impressive, and even state institutions like museums are larger and better equipped than those in Malawi."

Another Kenyan journalist, John Riaga was also expressed his amazement, especially with the city scenery at night.

 

" I was struck by the good lighting in the city, something lacking elsewhere in Africa. The traffic is great, with wide roads and a lot of space for pedestrians," he noted.

He also praised Ethiopians for their warmth, describing them as friendly and warm people.

Another journalist, Agatha Ngotho of Kenya, noted many differences from the last time she visited three years ago.

 

She underscored the use of climate-conscious design in road construction and complimented the city's traffic management.

"The urbanization is impressive and much improved compared to what I had viewed in the past. The infrastructure is not only modern but also built with an eye to the environment, which is something to applaud," she said.

Michael Kuzizam, a Rwandan journalist, on his part, also appealed to Africans to visit Addis Ababa and see the city's development.

 

"Africans should learn from one another so that they can develop the whole continent," he stated.

The journalists all agreed that Addis Ababa's infrastructure, the well-planned road network, urban planning, ecological concern, and friendly hospitality made the city a model for African cities aiming at sustainable development and growth.