Lost in Transition
The Plight of Stray Dogs Amid Addis Ababa’s Corridor Development
The corridor development in Addis Ababa has transformed the city with its modern aesthetics, improved pedestrian pathways, and advanced transit systems that enhance connectivity and foster economic growth. However, this urban transformation has come at a high cost, as many neighbourhoods have been demolished, displacing numerous families. In the wake of this upheaval, many domesticated animals, such as cats and dogs, have been abandoned, left to roam the streets in confusion, searching for owners who can no longer care for them. These animals’ struggles highlight the often-overlooked costs of progress and raise essential questions about our responsibility toward those affected by urban development. EBR’s Mintesinot Nigussie sheds light on the impact of these changes, sharing the real-life stories of these animals and their displaced families.
Addis Ababa is undergoing a significant transformation through its Corridor Development Project, which aims to enhance urban infrastructure and connectivity. This initiative focuses on upgrading key routes and revitalizing neglected areas to support the city’s goal of becoming a smart city. Features include wider roads, cycling lanes, improved pedestrian access, and revitalized public spaces, promising increased vibrancy, mobility, and economic opportunities for residents.
“Upon completion, this project will not only meet the community’s infrastructure requirements but also enhance the overall appearance and aesthetics of the city,” stated Yimegnushal Tadesse, Deputy Head of the Beautification and Greenery Development Bureau, in her interview with EBC.
Yet, as Addis Ababa’s skyline rises and its roads expand, this transformation comes at a steep cost for many residents. Global media outlets, including The Guardian, The Economist, and VOA Africa, have highlighted the human toll of urban expansion. According to The Economist article “The Historic Heart of Addis Ababa is Being Demolished,” around 11,000 people have been displaced from Piassa, often with no opportunity to voice their concerns. One resident reported being given just two weeks to vacate his home. He now faces uncertainty about the promised condominium on the city’s outskirts as the building still needs to be completed. In the meantime, he is forced to rent a room at triple the cost of his previous home, straining his finances and disrupting his life.
The urban transformation has displaced thousands of residents and led to a growing population of abandoned dogs and cats. As homes are demolished, families often leave behind cherished pets—dogs that once provided comfort and companionship. Their lives are turned upside down as they strive to rebuild far from the familiarity of their old neighbourhoods, resulting in a scene of loss and sorrow marked by necessity rather than neglect.
Yosef Dejene’s bond with his dog made their separation especially painful. “Leaving my dog behind feels like leaving a piece of my heart,” he said. He explained that his new condominium wasn’t suitable for pets, adding, “I wish I could have taken him, but the space and rules wouldn’t allow it.”
Feven Melese has spent over seven years caring for stray dogs through her initiative, “Animals Need Attention.” Driven by her passion for their well-being and the lack of awareness surrounding their treatment, she has witnessed many strays in areas affected by demolitions.
“While owners try their best to protect their pets on the streets, these dogs face challenges they don’t understand,” she noted. “They endure harsh conditions, often being hit by cars or mistreated by the community. The increasing number of strays is likely to worsen the situation, especially given the reproductive nature of female dogs.”
These dogs linger where their homes once stood, waiting for families who never return. They wander the streets, lost amid construction and traffic, always hungry and vulnerable to illness or injury. Once full of life, their eyes now reflect the weight of abandonment.
A 2020 study by Njoga and colleagues highlights unowned dogs’ public health and economic risks. Beyond the trauma of dog bites, these animals contribute to livestock predation and avoidable road traffic accidents. They also spread zoonotic diseases, including visceral leishmaniasis, echinococcosis, toxocariasis, and rabies.
“Some people asked me to kill their dogs when they had to leave,” said Elias Demeke (DVM), deputy manager of BCD Consultancy Services. He explained that dogs cannot survive without human interaction and love, seeking purpose in daily tasks—barking at strangers, walking alongside their owners, or accompanying children to school. “When these connections are lost, dogs can become profoundly depressed and may eventually die from loneliness,” he added. Feven has noticed that dogs displaced by the demolitions are far hungrier and thirstier than those who have lived on the streets longer.
Dogs have long been cherished as more than just pets; they fulfil essential roles as guardians, playmates, and companions. Their loyalty and affection have earned them the “man’s best friend.” Dogs provide emotional support, joy, and protection, guarding homes and assisting law enforcement with their keen senses. Their roles extend beyond households, as many dogs help individuals with disabilities, participate in rescue operations, and offer therapy, proving their profound impact on society.
“Dogs are often used to help treat depression and anxiety, commonly referred to as companion animals,” said Elias. “However, stray dogs significantly contribute to the spread of rabies, a disease that is both dangerous and costly to treat. For instance, treating a single case of rabies can cost around ETB 12,000.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dog-mediated rabies accounts for 99% of human rabies deaths, claiming tens of thousands of lives each year, particularly among children. The disease is present in over 150 countries, with 95% of deaths occurring in Africa and Asia, where rabies control is limited and disproportionately affects poor rural communities.
The Ministry of Agriculture has proposed modernizing the Animal Health and Welfare Act to align with international standards and enhance the livestock sector through updated regulations. Key provisions include setting qualifications for animal health professionals, establishing an Animal Health Board, and mandating disease reporting.
The law emphasizes disease control, improves animal care facilities, and requires owners to provide proper nutrition, clean water, suitable shelter, veterinary treatment, and humane transportation. It also prohibits animal cruelty, including beating or overworking, and mandates government approval for animal research to ensure ethical practices.
Furthermore, the law requires that stray animals be reported to local authorities or animal health facilities for necessary care. However, despite its promising intentions, enforcement remains discouraging, particularly for volunteers working tirelessly to support stray dogs.
According to Elias, the environment makes it challenging to care for stray dogs, leaving them exposed to various dangers. These dogs struggle to survive and pose health risks to the community, as many are unvaccinated and can spread diseases. He emphasizes the need for the government to take decisive action in managing unowned dogs.
“There are also challenges with NGOs established for this purpose in effectively addressing the issue,” he added.
“While the demolition of neighborhoods for corridor development signals progress, the welfare of these dogs should have been considered,” said Feven. “Some of us are even facing prison simply for caring for these animals, who are unfamiliar with the harsh realities of life as strays. Authorities claim that feeding them will diminish the city’s appeal.”
Veterinary experts and volunteers caring for stray dogs emphasize the need for greater attention to their welfare, increased public awareness, and the sterilization of female dogs to manage the growing population.
Feven recommended that female stray dogs be surgically sterilized and placed in large shelters afterwards. She also urged that imported animal medicines be exempt from taxes to ease the financial burden of care. To enhance public awareness, she suggested revising the education curriculum to include lessons on animal welfare and advocating for broader campaigns through various media platforms.
Elias stressed the importance of a One Health approach, advocating for collaboration between the public and private sectors, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ministry of Health. He believes this collective effort can effectively address the challenges faced by stray dogs. EBR
13th Year • December 2024 • No. 136