Mayor of Quelimane City lauds Addis Ababa as model for urbanization in Africa

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2024 (FBC) – Addis Ababa is a “prime example” for its infrastructure development and stressed need for African cities to embrace decentralization, modernization and urbanization, the mayor of Quelimane city, Mozambique, Manuel de Araujo commended.

Currently, Addis Ababa is under rapid transformation, including upgrading infrastructure development activities in the city.

Araujo applauded Addis Ababa for its impressive strides in urban modernization and inclusive development.

Africa’s rapid urbanization and the crucial role of local governments and mayors play in managing this growth effectively, he highlighted.

“Africa is the fastest urbanizing continent in the world, and one of the defining characteristics of this urbanization is its youthful demographic,” he stated.

He emphasized the importance of streamlined urbanization policies to prevent potential crises that could affect cities, countries, and the continent as a whole.

“Local governments and mayors are at the forefront of setting up and implementing policies that shape positive globalization,” he added.

Reflecting his comment on ongoing development in Addis Ababa, Araujo recalled the significant transformation the city has undergone recently.

“I remember when traveling from the airport to the hotel would take a minimum of an hour. Today, it’s a mere 10 to 15 minutes—a testament to the city’s remarkable progress,” he noted.

Araujo praised Mayor Adanech Abiebie for her efforts in modernizing Addis Ababa.

“Mayor Adanech is implementing timely and effective changes that are setting a legacy for the city.”

Addis Ababa’s infrastructure development is a prime example, he said, adding that African cities can transform themselves by embracing decentralization and modernization and urbanization.

Moreover, he stressed the importance of inclusive development, ensuring that modernization benefits all residents, including those with fewer resources and disabilities.

He also highlighted the innovative approaches such as nighttime walking programs to alleviate daytime congestion and boost economic activity.

“I witnessed people walking during nights, which are an innovative way for promoting development without creating, congestion during the day, so letting the economy continues working and producing the benefits while improving and modernizing the  city.”

According to him, better planning and early intervention are crucial and it is much cheaper and more efficient to address issues proactively than to correct past mistakes.

While acknowledging the historical centralization of urban management in Africa, Araujo praised the recent shift towards decentralized, multi-level governance, as per ENA.