Tigray Consultation Delegates Impressed by Addis Ababa Transformation, Call for Similar Development in Mekelle
Participants from the Tigray Region who attended the agenda setting conference organized by the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission conducted a field visit to major development projects in Addis Ababa, where they expressed strong appreciation for the scale, speed, and leadership behind the capital’s ongoing transformation.
The visit, which brought together more than 700 representatives drawn from different segments of society in Tigray, was led by Haftay Gebre Egzabhier, Head of the Communication Office of the Addis Ababa City Administration. Delegates toured key projects including the Adwa Victory Memorial, corridor development initiatives, the Addis Ababa Science Museum, riverside development projects, and several urban redevelopment sites.
Participants described the developments as a clear demonstration of coordinated leadership and institutional effectiveness under the administration of Adanech Abebe, Mayor of Addis Ababa. Many noted that the projects reflect not only infrastructure expansion but also a broader urban vision that integrates economic growth, tourism, public space development, and environmental restoration.
Several delegates highlighted that the pace of development in Addis Ababa reflects strong leadership, planning discipline, and a results oriented governance approach. They said the transformation has positioned Addis Ababa as an emerging competitive African capital while also improving quality of life for residents.
Among those who spoke during the visit, Henok Gidey noted that the developments demonstrate what can be achieved when political stability, leadership commitment, and public participation align.
“These projects show how leadership and unity can transform a city in a short time. What we have seen in Addis Ababa is encouraging and should be replicated in Mekelle and other cities in Tigray,” he said.
Similarly, Hirut Belya emphasized that the transformation in Addis Ababa offers practical lessons for post conflict recovery and regional development.
“The corridor development, riverfront rehabilitation, and redevelopment initiatives are not only beautification efforts. They create jobs, stimulate investment, and restore public confidence. Tigray cities, especially Mekelle, can benefit from similar initiatives,” she said.
Participants repeatedly pointed to peace as a critical foundation for development. They argued that Addis Ababa’s rapid transformation reflects the importance of stability, institutional coordination, and long term planning.
Several delegates also called for the implementation of corridor development projects in Mekelle and other cities in Tigray, stating that such initiatives could accelerate recovery, create employment opportunities, and improve urban infrastructure.
However, some participants also noted concerns that remnants of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front are opposing corridor development initiatives in parts of Tigray. They argued that such resistance could slow reconstruction efforts and limit opportunities for economic recovery in the region.
Observers said the visit reflected growing interest among Tigray stakeholders in adopting development models seen in Addis Ababa. They also noted that the field trip served as a platform for experience sharing, particularly on post conflict urban recovery and economic revitalization.
Participants concluded by expressing appreciation for the leadership of Mayor Adanech Abebe and her team, describing their work as an example of how coordinated governance and political commitment can deliver visible change within a short period.
The visit ended with calls for continued dialogue, collaboration, and the adoption of similar development initiatives in Tigray, particularly in Mekelle, as part of broader efforts to promote stability, recovery, and inclusive growth.
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