Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, has been recognized internationally for its sustainable urban development efforts. Mayor Adanech Abebe stated that the city's development approach prioritizes human-centered development, ensuring that urban growth is aligned with the well-being of its residents. This approach has earned Addis Ababa recognition at various international forums.

The city's latest recognition came at the 2026 Shanghai International Sustainable Urban Development Award, where Addis Ababa was one of five cities to receive the award. The other cities recognized were Santiago de Cali, Colombia; Istanbul, Turkey; Jingdezhen, China; and Katowice, Poland. This award marks the second time Addis Ababa has received recognition at the Shanghai forum, having previously been acknowledged in 2024.

Mayor Adanech Abebe expressed her pride in the city's achievements, stating that the recognition is a testament to the city's hard work and commitment to sustainable development. She emphasized that the city's development approach prioritizes the well-being of its residents, ensuring that urban growth is aligned with their needs. This approach has resulted in significant progress in areas such as food security and waste management.

Addis Ababa's recognition at the international level is a source of pride for Ethiopia, and it demonstrates the country's commitment to sustainable development. The city's efforts to promote sustainable urban development have been acknowledged globally, and it has received recognition from reputable organizations. Mayor Adanech Abebe attributed the city's success to the collaborative efforts of its residents, stakeholders, and the government.

The city's sustainable development efforts are aligned with Ethiopia's broader development goals, which aim to lift the country out of poverty and promote economic growth. Mayor Adanech Abebe emphasized that the city's development approach is focused on promoting economic growth while ensuring the well-being of its residents. This approach has resulted in significant progress in areas such as infrastructure development and service delivery.

Addis Ababa's recognition at the international level is expected to inspire other cities in Ethiopia to adopt similar sustainable development approaches. Mayor Adanech Abebe encouraged all Ethiopians to work together to promote sustainable development and ensure that the country's cities become hubs of civilization and prosperity. She emphasized that the city's development approach is a model for other cities to follow.

The city's commitment to sustainable urban development has earned it recognition as a model for other cities to follow. Mayor Adanech Abebe stated that the city will continue to work towards promoting sustainable development and ensuring the well-being of its residents. The city's recognition at the international level is a testament to its hard work and commitment to sustainable development.

Key points

  • Addis Ababa has received international recognition for its sustainable urban development efforts, including the 2026 Shanghai International Sustainable Urban Development Award.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.