Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Tuesday launched the first phase riverside green development project in Addis Ababa, reported The Middle East Monitor.
The planned “Beautifying Sheger Project” is underway to create a beautiful and healthy environment for residents of the metropolis and tourists, according to the government.
“No force can stop Ethiopia’s journey towards prosperity,” Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said while launching the project.
The $1 billion development project will run along the two biggest rivers in Addis Ababa stretching 23.8kms and 27.5kms respectively. The first phase of the project will be built by the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) with a grant secured earlier this year from the Chinese Government.
“Ethiopia’s existence and prosperity relies on the hard work and commitment of its people,” the prime minister said.
He added that as part of the project, flowers will be planted all the way from Bole international Airport to Arat kilo and the city will have greenery as beautiful as it is in Dubai.
The three-year project is aimed at making Addis Ababa a tourist destination and to create jobs in the project phase. It also aims to create riverside economies, increase urban tourism, and provide the city’s residents with areas for respite.
The first phase of project runs from Entoto to Bambis Bridge and will feature open space for recreation, artificial lake, and wedding venue on 42 square meters of area in front of Sheraton Addis hotel.
“Ethiopia’s existence and prosperity depend on the hard work and commitment of its people,” Abiy said, pointing out that the project, which is supported by the Chinese government, “aims to make Addis Ababa beautiful city just like its name.”
The first phase “Beautifying Sheger Project’ is expected to be completed in May 2020.
