The Addis Ababa city administration launched a project which will convert river banks of the city into public parks and green spaces. The project will cost over 29 billion birr (about $1.02).

Varnero PLC will implement the project, which is expected to be completed in three years.

Takele Uma, deputy mayor of the city of Addis Ababa, speaking at the launching ceremony, said the project is meant for all Ethiopians and especially for the residents of Addis Ababa.The project is initiated by the Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD).

This project will run along the two largest rivers of the city, stretching 23.8 and 27.5 kilometers, all the way from the mountains of Entoto through to Akaki River.

The project aims to elevate the city to a site of urban tourism, to enhance the well-being of inhabitants and to enable the country’s aspiration of nurturing a green economy through the expansion of green spaces and creating related service economies

The mayor, in his remark, vowed to “make Addis Ababa live up to its name.” Addis Ababa means “New Flower” in Amharic.

Sources: APA, EPA, Fana BC

Image Source: Addis Ababa City Mayor's Office