Addis Ababa Building Livable, World-Class Urban Infrastructure, Says Mayor

Addis Ababa, March 25, 2026 (ENA) —Addis Ababa is undergoing a significant transformation through large-scale urban infrastructure development aimed at creating a livable, inclusive, and globally competitive city, Mayor Adanech Abiebie said.

Speaking at the Italy–Ethiopia Infrastructure and Urban Regeneration Forum, the mayor emphasized that ongoing projects, ranging from modern buildings and transport systems to riverside developments are reshaping the capital and improving residents' quality of life.

 

“We are building a habitable, livable, and world-class city for our people, leaving no one behind,” she said, highlighting that infrastructure expansion is central to the city’s long-term vision.

Adanech noted that Addis Ababa’s rapid construction drive reflects Ethiopia’s broader ambition for prosperity, with the capital serving as a model for urban transformation across the country and beyond.

She added that the city’s development is contributing to increased investment, expanding trade, and stronger institutional partnerships.

The mayor also stressed the importance of private-sector engagement and invited international investors, particularly Italian companies to participate in the city’s transformation.

Ambassador of Italy to Ethiopia, Sem Fabrizi, praised Addis Ababa’s pace of development, noting that few cities globally match its scale of ongoing construction. Referring to international measures such as the “Crane Index,” he stated that the capital would rank among the world’s leading cities in terms of construction activity.

 

He further emphasized the deep-rooted relationship between Ethiopia and Italy, expressing confidence that the forum would foster new partnerships, encourage investment, and strengthen cooperation in infrastructure and urban development.

Organized by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), represented by Deputy Minister Maria Tripodi, in partnership with the Italian Embassy in Addis Ababa and the Italian Trade Agency (ITA).

This high-level forum brought together Italian and Ethiopian industry leaders, government officials, and key stakeholders to strengthen collaboration on major infrastructure and urban development projects.

 

The event will feature senior Ethiopian government representatives, including officials from the Mayor's Office of Addis Ababa, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Urban and Infrastructure Development.

Around 25 Italian companies and representatives from key sector associations will participate, focusing on strategic sectors such as transport infrastructure, logistics, urban development, water infrastructure, and energy projects.

The forum will highlight Italy's expertise in engineering, construction technologies, and urban regeneration while creating opportunities for collaboration with local developers, institutions, and investors.