Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, is actively pursuing environmental sustainability through various initiatives aimed at enhancing urban biodiversity, mitigating climate change impacts, and promoting eco-friendly development.
Entoto-Peacock Park: A Model for Urban Biodiversity
The Entoto-Peacock Park corridor exemplifies Addis Ababa’s commitment to integrating ecological restoration with urban planning. This green belt revitalizes riverbanks into ecologically sound recreational zones, mitigating flood risks and reducing urban heat island effects. The project also supports migratory birds, pollinators, and native flora, contributing to the city’s biodiversity. Source
Green Legacy Initiative: A Nationwide Reforestation Effort
In July 2025, Ethiopia launched an ambitious campaign to plant 700 million tree seedlings in a single day as part of the Green Legacy Initiative. This effort aims to plant 50 billion trees by 2026, with over 40 billion already planted. The initiative seeks to build a climate-resilient economy, protect soil, and ensure food security through the planting of edible tree seedlings. Source
Environmental Protection Campaigns
In April 2024, Addis Ababa’s Mayor Adanech Abiebe launched a six-month environmental protection campaign under the theme “Stop Pollution, Beauty Awakes.” Engaging 2.7 million residents, the campaign focuses on reducing climate change impacts and beautifying the city through projects like riverside development. The city’s forest coverage has increased from 2.8% to 15% through the Green Legacy Initiative. Source
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite these efforts, Addis Ababa faces challenges such as rapid urbanization, loss of green areas, and inadequate drainage systems, leading to increased flooding and urban heat island effects. Continued commitment to sustainable urban planning and community engagement is essential for the city’s environmental resilience. Source
Through these initiatives, Addis Ababa is making significant strides toward environmental sustainability, setting an example for other rapidly urbanizing cities.