ACRC-Addis Ababa Research Uptake

Unveiling the Interconnected Challenges of Addis Ababa’s Transportation, Education, and Solid Waste Systems

In a recent enlightening discussion between Dr. Ezana Amdework, the Uptake Coordinator of ACRC-Addis Ababa, and Dr. Tebarek Lika, an ACRC CoS researcher, the intricate challenges surrounding Addis Ababa’s transportation, education, and solid waste systems took center stage. This blog post aims to provide an in-depth exploration of their insightful conversation, shedding light on the complex interrelationships, underlying issues, and potential solutions regarding these crucial systems.

Transportation: Navigating the Roads to Sustainability

Addis Ababa has embarked on a transformative journey to enhance its transportation system. Significantly, the city has allocated a remarkable 26% of its capital investment budget to the development of new infrastructure. This investment encompasses the construction of roads, the introduction of a new Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, and the establishment of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. In addition to these infrastructure enhancements, there is a strong focus on elevating standards and practices, particularly in integrating pedestrian facilities into major transport projects.

However, as Dr. Tebarek stressed during the discussion, several pressing issues plague the transportation sector. These include an insufficient road and public transport network, a scarcity of pedestrian and Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) facilities, and systemic challenges such as a lack of coordination, integration, clear regulations, limited capacity, and instances of corruption. To address these challenges effectively, key intervention areas involve the active involvement of all stakeholders within the sector, with a focus on preventing implementation challenges. Furthermore, recognizing the interconnectedness between transportation and other vital systems is paramount, as changes in the transport sector can significantly impact various socio-economic activities in the city.

Solid Waste Management: Turning Waste into Opportunity

Solid waste management in Addis Ababa has witnessed transformative initiatives. One of the most notable strategies is the decentralization of waste management services to lower-tier administrations. This approach not only empowers local communities but also creates employment opportunities for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) in waste collection, recycling, and disposal. Interestingly, informal actors have emerged as key players in this process, viewing waste recycling not as a problem but as an opportunity.

Despite these positive steps, persistent challenges continue to plague the sector. These include poor storage practices, irregular waste collection, open dumping, insufficient operational capacity, limited financial prioritization, lack of equipment, inadequate public awareness, weak political commitment, and poor enforcement mechanisms.

To overcome these challenges, key intervention areas include the establishment of an efficient, effective, and sustainable waste management system. When properly managed, waste can become a source of legitimacy, contributing to a cleaner environment and mitigating potential hazards when stakeholders collaborate effectively.

Education System: Nurturing Minds for a Brighter Future

Addis Ababa’s education system has been shaped by the Multi-year Educational Sector Development Program (ESDP I-V), implemented since 1997/98. The program’s goals are expansive, aiming to expand access, improve quality, relevance, efficiency, and equity in education. Various policy tools, strategies, and guidelines have been developed to steer these objectives. The policy landscape also encourages private sector participation in education, with private educational institutions playing a significant role in the city’s education landscape.

However, systemic challenges persist within the education sector. Dr. Tebarek highlighted the prioritization of education for donor appeal, often leading to a focus on quantity over quality. Quality improvement and the provision of basic services, especially in relocation areas, remain ongoing challenges. While recent reforms, including standardized examinations, have attempted to elevate educational standards, they have merely scratched the surface.

In response to these challenges, key intervention areas encompass achieving a political settlement within the education sector and recognizing the pivotal role education plays in the city and the nation as a whole. Additionally, integration with other systems, such as transportation, energy distribution, water services, waste management, and healthcare, is deemed crucial. Addressing teacher training and elevating the teaching profession’s status, combined with customized, context-specific solutions involving stakeholders, are identified as paramount steps for achieving lasting change.