Smart City Initiative Unveiled in Ethiopia
Ethiopia is taking a significant step towards modernizing its urban services and improving living standards with the launch of a comprehensive smart city initiative. The Ministry of Urban and Development has announced plans to transform 275 towns across the country into smart cities by 2024/2025.
The initiative, which is part of a broader effort to enhance Ethiopia’s urban development, will be rolled out in phases. The first phase, starting in 2023/2024, will focus on 31 cities, including the capital Addis Ababa. This initial phase will serve as a model for the large-scale rollout, aiming to transform a staggering 2,500 towns into smart cities by 2026.
According to Urban and Development State Minister FentaDejen, the smart city concept includes modernizing office services, providing accessible and fast services, and implementing e-services. The ministry has already begun working on smart city projects in six cities: Addis Ababa, Adama, Bishoftu, Debre Birhan, Dessie, Jimma, Hawassa, and Bahir Dar.
To ensure the successful implementation of the initiative, the ministry is collaborating with foreign nations and learning from international best practices. It is also developing training materials, standards, and regulations to support selected cities in implementing their smart city plans.
The ministry’s vision for smart cities extends beyond technology, focusing on improving living standards for city residents, enhancing public transportation, and creating clean and green environments. By investing in infrastructure projects such as corridor development and green spaces, the ministry aims to make cities more livable and sustainable.
Several Ethiopian cities, including Hawassa, Adama, and Bishoftu, are already making significant strides in embracing technology and focusing on sustainable development. By doing so, they are paving the way for a brighter future for Ethiopia’s urban population.
The smart city initiative holds immense potential for Ethiopia’s urban landscape, aiming to create a more vibrant, efficient, and livable future for millions of Ethiopians. With its focus on technology and sustainable development, the initiative is set to transform the country’s urban areas and improve the quality of life for its citizens.