In an interview this evening about his latest book, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) stated that the world is now recognizing the success of Ethiopia's urban corridor development projects.

The Prime Minister highlighted the recently completed corridor from Entoto to 4 Kilo, pointing out that beyond improving infrastructure and aesthetics, the project has led to the creation of 700 new businesses and numerous jobs. He also noted that the installation of streetlights and cameras in cities has significantly reduced crime.

Abiy said that the ongoing riverbank developments are on par with those in the developed world and could serve as a model for the entire African continent. He added that the projects have also created a substantial number of employment opportunities.

Contrasting this approach with past strategies, the Prime Minister said that a former focus on rural areas at the expense of cities had shown little success. The current administration, he explained, is working with a detailed understanding of urban life, which he believes is a key to national prosperity. As proof, he pointed to the visible results of the corridor projects.

According to Abiy, many African countries are not only seeking to emulate Ethiopia’s success but are also visiting the sites to learn firsthand from the experience. He stated that this is something all Ethiopians should be proud of.

He concluded by saying that urban life is a reflection of beauty, health, and modernity, and that a strategy that devalues cities is a dead end. However, he clarified that this urban focus does not mean rural areas are being neglected, as similar corridor projects are also underway in the countryside.