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Addis Ababa City Administration has officially inaugurated the Yeka No. 2 Car Park, a state-of-the-art eight-floor facility with the capacity to accommodate 1,000 vehicles simultaneously. Strategically located between Shola Gebeya and the major intersection, the project is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion in one of the capital’s busiest corridors.

The modern car park comprises five floors above ground and two underground, featuring advanced technologies, 24/7 security, sanitation services, three car wash bays, elevators for both passengers and vehicles, as well as inclusive facilities designed to serve people with disabilities.

Mayor Adanech Abiebie, announcing the launch on her social media page, emphasized the project’s contribution to “the comfort, safety, and dignity of Addis Ababa residents.” She noted that the facility is more than just a parking solution—it is a multi-functional urban infrastructure designed to boost economic activity and urban aesthetics. The structure also includes retail shops and office spaces, fostering business and employment opportunities for locals.

“This is part of our ongoing efforts to modernize Addis Ababa’s transportation system and make our city worthy of its name—‘the new flower,’” said Mayor Adanech.

The Yeka No. 2 Car Park marks a significant departure from previous parking infrastructure in the city. Before recent urban reforms, the government had only constructed two public parking lots, serving fewer than 500 vehicles. Today, Addis Ababa boasts 150 public parking facilities and 49 terminals, with combined capacity to serve up to 35,000 vehicles at once.

 


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The world’s third-largest automaker, China’s Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC Group), has entered talks with Ethiopian authorities about the feasibility of producing EVs in the country.

During a high-level meeting held in Addis Ababa, GAC Group Chairman Feng Xingya and his delegation held discussions with Ethiopia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime (PhD). The two parties explored potential collaboration areas in green automotive manufacturing and technological investment, signaling the beginning of what could be a game-changing industrial partnership.

The discussion aligns with Ethiopia’s growing ambition to position itself as a hub for electric mobility in Africa. The government has already banned the import of fossil-fueled vehicles, allowing only electric cars into the country—a bold policy shift that opens doors for large-scale manufacturing and assembly.

The government’s commitment goes beyond regulation. Speaking at a recent launch event, the State Minister of Transport and Logistics, Bareo Hassen, announced that Ethiopia will offer comprehensive support to EV suppliers and investors. This includes facilitating land access, customs clearance, and building nationwide EV charging infrastructure.

Huajian Industry, which has previously invested in Ethiopia’s manufacturing sector, has launched a program to introduce a new EV model. The program is expected to enable the company to supply products to GAC Group, further signaling potential collaboration within the sector.

Speaking at the event, Bareo noted that the arrival of such companies enhances trade relations between Ethiopia and China. He emphasized that the government would continue supporting the growth of the electric vehicle sector, including expanding the construction of EV charging stations across the country.

“Products introduced to the market are suitable for our climate,” said the Minister, underlining the importance of aligning innovation with local needs.

Ethiopia is also rolling out large-scale infrastructure to support the growing EV population. Charging stations are under construction across major highways and cities, laying the groundwork for a modern, sustainable transport system.

 



 

The Addis Ababa Transport Bureau has confirmed that construction of the city’s long-awaited Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system will commence sooner this fiscal year, marking a major step forward in modernizing the capital’s public transportation network. Speaking to Ahadu Radio, Dagnachew Shiferaw, the bureau’s deputy head, revealed that 15 BRT corridors are planned for development in the coming years, with the first phase—a 19-kilometer route stretching from Jemo 3 to Piyasa Adwa—slated to begin construction this year. Funded with support from the French government, the project has already secured a contractor, ensuring that work will proceed as scheduled.  

Unlike conventional bus services, the BRT system will operate on dedicated lanes, significantly reducing delays caused by traffic congestion. Dagnachew emphasized that the current practice of buses waiting to fill up before departing—a fuel-saving measure that inconveniences passengers—will be eliminated once the express service is operational. Commuters will benefit from reliable, on-demand transportation without unnecessary waiting times. The BRT model, successfully implemented in cities worldwide, is expected to bring similar efficiency gains to Addis Ababa.  

Looking ahead, the city’s transport infrastructure will feature a dual-system approach: a mass transit train network alongside the BRT for high-capacity movement, while taxi services will cater to middle-income residents. As construction progresses on the initial line, additional BRT routes will be developed in parallel, signaling a broader shift toward a faster, more organized urban transit system. This initiative represents a critical milestone in addressing Addis Ababa’s growing mobility challenges and improving the daily commute for millions of residents.

 




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