The winning project focuses on transforming the riverbank in Kechene Medhanialem into a safe and inclusive space. This design envisions a pedestrian-friendly promenade along the riverbank, showcasing Shiromeda's cultural vibrancy. The promenade features elements that enhance the overall experience for residents, students, and tourists.

Special Mention | Der Biaber, Università Iuav di Venezia

• Team members: Giovanna Deltregia Martinelli, Natnael Tesfaye Mekonnen, Alessandra Fudoli, Alexandra Zlotea, Manik Konda, Stefania Chiezzi & Eloi CahÌs i Reixach

• Faculty advisor: Professor Domenico Patassini

Special Mention | UPD14, Ethiopian Institute of Architecture, Building Construction and City Development, Addis Ababa University 

• Team members: Yonas Dagne, Kidus Fiseha, Abubeker Bedru, Kebron Desalegn, Bamlack Tsedeke, Sisay Mulaw, Bereket Molla & Kelo Abayo 

• Faculty advisor: Nura Mohammedata Beshir, Lecturer

Congratulations to all teams that participated! Check out the documentation tab to view the winning team's proposal. 

The Addis Ababa Riverside Green Development Project, otherwise known as the “Sheger Beautifying Project”, is a project sponsored by the Ethiopian government and funded by the Chinese Communications Construction Company (CCCC). The project was launched in February 2019 to clean the city’s rivers and create a walkable and green public realm. 

The project runs alongside a total  56 km stretch, starting from Entoto and ending at the Akaki wastewater treatment plant. In the Students Reinventing Cities competition, teams should select a 5km site area of their choosing to focus their project on. The project presents an important step to address river pollution, caused by ineffective waste management and illegal dumping, which threatens the environment and the health of local communities.

The development of the site should include the incorporation of riverside greenery, as well as the establishment of an organic waste composting facility. Whilst much of the project has already been completed or is under development, teams should identify a 5km area for this competition that is currently undeveloped. The city is seeking an implementable proposal for this section of the river,  with a specific focus on the following objectives: 

• Create a pedestrian-friendly and attractive walkway, rich in urban greenery and tree cover. 

• Integrate an easily managed organic waste composting facility that aligns with the recommendations of the city’s Climate Action Plan.

• Integrate solutions to increase the permeability of the area to retain water and minimise the impact of flooding.

• Improve the sense of public ownership of the area, to foster a sense of pride and community.

• Incorporate public toilets and other public facilities 

• Create adaptable spaces and integrate tactical urbanism measures to ensure a mix and flexible use of the area, ensuring that it serves the residents of today, whilst being adaptable for generations to come.