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Building a Sustainable Legacy Through Urban Renewal

Aug 21, 2026 119

National growth is measured not only by the daily life we experience today, but also by the strong structural foundation we hand down to coming generations. Thus, the urban development and renewal projects currently taking place across our country go far beyond concrete and high-rises—they embody deep nation-building and the core values of social justice.

As Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) stated, "Developing cities means leaving behind a great country for our children; it means ensuring they have a better environment in their own nation rather than longing for others." Developing cities fosters a sense of psychological empowerment and genuine ownership across generations.

When children and young people grow up in environments equipped with clean, modern infrastructure, their pride in their country and their cognitive capacities expand. Rather than merely admiring the progress of other nations through images, it enables them to build and enjoy a better quality of life right at home.

The corridor developments and green space expansions currently underway on a large scale are not temporary beautification projects. The creation of children's play parks, accessible walkways, bike lanes, and green areas represent long-term investments that contribute significantly to air quality, physical activity, and mental growth.

Furthermore, a clean and integrated urban structure revitalizes the service sector, creates broad employment opportunities for the youth, and attracts tourism and foreign investment—helping to ensure young people no longer view migration as their only option.

Therefore, every initiative we take in our communities toward development, sanitation, and environmental care is a lasting asset and an indelible footprint for our children. Sustainable urban development is ultimately our highest national duty, both as parents and as citizens.