Addis Ababa: The ongoing corridor development in Addis Ababa is amazing, noting the many changes taking place in the city, Austria Ambassador Simone Knapp told ENA.
According to the ambassador, Addis Ababa is a remarkable city continuously evolving.
‘Here in Addis Ababa, we have seen a lot of changes coming up, and I guess changes are necessary in any big city to make it livable for a growing population.’
In this regard, Ambassador Knapp explained that the corridor project is very important. Citing as an example, Vienna, the capital of Austria, she stated that a new road has been developed with expanded lanes, new lighting, and pedestrian paths; similar to the improvements being made in Addis Ababa.
It was quite interesting because there was a real process involving a few weeks to a couple of months during which people could submit their suggestions. They could request more trees, additional lighting, more benches, and other features, she said.
This process gave people in the neighborhood a sense of invo
lvement in the development of their own city, which was fascinating.
Since not everyone from a country can come to the capital, and considering that Ethiopia has a population of 120 million people, however, it is important to have intermediary cities to help accommodate and serve people, she elaborated.
‘I think that the development of cities is important, not only in the capital city, but also in the secondary cities, in the provincial capitals.’
The cities can provide essential services and support to manage the population distribution effectively.
Asked about the Green Legacy Initiative, the ambassador said it is crucial for environmental sustainability. The initiative plays a vital role in enhancing forest coverage and contributing to a greener future.
My country Austria is located in the heart of Europe and is known for its lush green landscapes, with significant and increasing forest coverage.
I (therefore) strongly support the goal and political desire here in Ethiopia to expand forest and tree c
overage as well, she said, adding that the more trees you plant, it is really very healthy for the country in general.
‘I think the country (Ethiopia) is doing a lot already. The government is doing a lot to promote green legacy. We have been invited as diplomats. I myself have been invited to do the tree planting together with the mayor of Addis Ababa. So I think this is excellent to do. And I see also in the city that there’s a lot of tree planting underway; and it’s just for me to encourage continuing with this.’
Ambassador Knapp also pointed out that the Austrian Embassy has been in Addis Ababa for 60 years, and bilateral relations between the two countries dates back to over 100 years.
Source : Ethiopian News Agency