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 Construction Company (CCC). 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.

I'm interested! What next?

• Form your team. Feel free to fill out the Team Up Form to connect with new teammates and bring more diversity & expertise to your team. 

• Register your team by clicking the button at the top of the page. Please note that the registration deadline has been extended to Registration closes on Thursday 18 April 2024 - 5PM UTC.