Urban Design

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Activities of Common Places in Informal Settlements: The Case of Selected Streets and Shared Compounds of Abnet area, addis ababa
(Addis Ababauniversity, 2016-12) Metadel Sileshi ; EliasYitbarek
Researches were conducted on the housing issues such as physical condition,transformation, identity and so on. The importance of common places and their use as part of the activities that takes place and the significance of these activities for inner-city neighborhoods of Addis Ababa, however, were not given much weight. Thus, the main objective of the research is to explore activities of common places in one of these neighborhoods. To investigate this, a case study approach was selected, as it is the best fit for descriptive,explanatory and exploratory questions. Moreover, it is the most appropriate to collect data in a natural setting. Accordingly, qualitative data is collected in the form of semi structured indepth interviews, mapping, photography and notes from personal observations. The case area, Abnet, was chosen based on the fact that it‟s a dense inner-city informal settlement. The research focuses on streets and shared compounds of a neighborhood. The streets based on activities taking place and other geographical features, are sub divided into two main categories, namely access and nodal streets, and smallneighborhood streets, which are more intimate serving mostly residents of immediate compounds. A total of ten streets and seven compounds were studied. Accordingly, the main findings are: activities can be classified into four major categories namely, business activities, recreational activities, household activities and Social/cultural activities. It was revealed that, overlap of different types of activities is a common scenario. The type of places the activities occupy are found to depend on the types of activities. The research strongly suggests that overlap of activities is useful formaximum utilization of space with other socio-economic and recreational advantages and that it should be fostered. When planning and designing common places there should be hierarch of common places and they should be planned in a way that they can accommodate layers of activities
Affordable Housing and Economic Sustainability and the case of the Poorest of the Poor Housing in Debre Markos City
(Addis Ababa University, 2023-10-01) MIichael Menberu Zewudie; . Elias Yitbarek
The affordability of housing is an essential policy goal. Incorporating economic sustainability in affordable housing in the development of the poorest of the poor's housing programs has become a major concern. This paper examines the affordability and economic sustainability of the poorest of the poor affordable housing in Debre Markos city. To address this, this study uses both quantitative and qualitative methods, using questionnaire surveys, interviews, field observation, and household surveys. Households in the expanding area have lower monthly salaries than in the past, but they are satisfied with the housing quality, rental pricing, and tenure security of their dwellings, according to the data analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis. Households in the intermediate zone had significantly higher incomes after moving into their new homes. Housing is not truly affordable if it is in an inaccessible place with a long commute to work, high transportation expenditures, and land use that is homogeneous. In addition, the study examines several economic sustainability performance indicators. As a result, indicators have been established to examine new housing development schemes for the poorest of the poor. intensive literature analysis and investigation into the study area yielded a preliminary list of 15 critical economically sustainable performance indicators of affordable housing for the poorest of the poor’s. The study suggested indicators for incorporating economic sustainability into the poorest of the poor affordable housing programs. The indicators suggest using mixed-use housing and neighborhoods, economic sustainability performance indicators, house location, affordable housing for the poorest of the poor women, house management and maintenance, infrastructure, and local community participation as parameters for evaluating key dimensions of the poorest of the poor affordable housing programs' economic sustainability. Key words: Affordable housing, Sustainable housing, economic sustainability.
Application of Curb Extension for Sustainable Storm Water Management of Local Streets in Water Logging Lands:The case of Residential Areas in Addis Ababa:
(Addis Ababa University, 2021-02) Beyene Tsega; Assefa Alazar
The application of sustainable stormwater management system in waterlogging areas of urbanized catchments is the most effective method that helps to control surface stormwater runoff caused by recurrent and extreme rain events. Applying a bio-retention system for flood reduction through infiltration and evapotranspiration processes will help to create an attractive urban street with better environmental performance. Since cities are becoming more impervious, the stormwater runoff increases and will affects the downstream land and water bodies by flooding. In Addis Ababa, applying a sustainable stormwater management system is a timely act due to the ongoing rapid urbanization and increment in impervious surfaces that result in stormwater runoff that causes flooding and surface water pollution. In this regard, innovative and flat terrain considerate design responses are needed in low-lying plains with difficulties to apply conventional pipe-based drainage systems. The design intervention will reduce the waterlogging effect occur due to extreme rain events. The objective of the research is to apply curb-extensions as a bio-retention system for sustainable stormwater management of waterlogging local streets in the low-lying residential areas of Addis Ababa. Specifically, the study identified areas affected by peak stormwater flow that creates a waterlogging problem over local streets of the case study area. A sustainable design solution is proposed by considering the infiltration,retention, and evapotranspiration capacity of curb-extensions. The study identified flooding and waterlogging areas in the city, at the river catchment, and in the study, site using hydrological and spatial data. Using ArcGIS-based hydrologic analyst tools, blue spots located along the flow direction of the streams identified as depressions usually experienced an overflow of stormwater and waterlogging. To minimize the risk of waterlogging, a sustainable design solution as a curb extension system designed by estimating the water balance from the actual water holding capacity of natural depression (blue-spot) and the stormwater runoff generated from the catchment area that naturally drained into the specific blue-spot. The curb-extension system was designed as a bio-retention and streetscape element by modifying the native soil, gravel fill, water intake plants on the top of the system for infiltration and retention purpose. In this regard, the designed curb extension will substantially manage the highest intensity of precipitation (40 mm/hr) of 10 years of rain event from IDF curve of Addis Ababa. The design reduces the volume of stormwater runoff from 22.895 m3 to 8.477 m3, which is 62 % of runoff. The study concludes that if the municipality of Addis Ababa develops a curb extension system over the local streets of the entire neighborhoods affected by waterlogging, the flooding problem will be reduced substantially with more greening & environmental benefits. The system will also contribute to the reduction of downstream flooding by minimizing stormwater runoff flowing into the Akaki river system. As a multifunctional drainage design facility, the system has the potential to create a green street that helps to improve the standard of living and boost the environmental quality of the area. Finally, thestudyrecommended further study on the upscaling of proposed curb-extension by developing more empirical and experimental settings as a pilot project. The pilot projects will help the city to consider the curb-extension system for the greening, drainage design, and urban planning practices. Moreover, the tests and demonstration works will justify its competency for improving the livability and livelihood of the local people within urban settings that were frequently affected by waterlogging.
An assessement of Household Poverty in Addis Ababa: The Case of Two Kebeles in Addis Ketema Sub-City
(Addis Ababauniversity, 2015-05) Kidist Yibeltal; Tolossa Degefa
As we all know urban poverty is one of the major problems of Ethiopia. The main objective of this study was to assess household poverty in Addis Ababa by taking two kebeles of Addis ketema sub-city.In order to achieve the objective of the study from the study population of 55,762 household heads 200 samples were selected through random sampling method. The study used both primary and secondary data sources. Data was analyzed and interpreted mainly through quantitative method and it was supported by qualitative method.The two dominant approaches of poverty analysis- income and welfarewere adopted. Income and expenditure of the household were viewed from the perspective of household size, education, age, martial status, and employment. Welfare is also analyzed through the nature of the house (wall type, construction material for floor and material of roof), housetenure, renting, number of rooms, supply of drinking water, main source of light, use of kitchen, energy consumption, toilet, bathing facility, and health condition. Coping strategies like saving, aid, migration, and cutting down meals per day were identified in the study.The result of the study in general showed that households in the selected areas have quite low income and most of them depend on one source of income. 51.9 percent of the surveyed population is employed themselves inpetty trade. 32.5 percent of the households earn with a gap of 401-700 per month. More than 34.4 percent of the households’ income couldn’t cover their monthly expenditure. Divorced and widowed which accounted 22.5 and 19.0 percent, respectively, sections of the society experience more poverty than those who are not. Besides, 40.0 percent categorized themselves as very poor when compared with other community. Most ofthe respondents (50.0 percent) have experience of food shortage and out ofthis food insecure households (50.9 percent) of the respondents use cutting down the amount of their meal (frequency at two times per day is a dominant means) in order to cope up the food shortage.Based on the findings, the study recommended that investment on infrastructure is highly recommendable for the problems like housing shortage, overcrowding, rents affordable relative to income and the quality of houses. Health coverage, water and sanitation facilities also need to get immediate attention by the development sector
Assessment of Intervention and Influence of Urban Redevelopment on Architectural Heritages Located in Arada area
(Addis Ababa University, 2019-11) Shawul Biniam; Girmay Tadesse
Conservation of urban and architectural heritage in the Arada area is basic to remember the history of Addis Abeba. Currently, the city is experiencing redevelopment activities. The research was assessing urban redevelopmentinterventions and influences on architectural heritages, for the case of main Street of Churchill and the surroundings. The significance of the study is to conserve architectural heritages from mass destruction due to urban redevelopment. The research was conducted through site investigation,document analysis, interviews and questionnaire surveys. Both qualitative and quantitative data are collected from different sources. The research is mainly qualitative. The quantitative data collected is used to support the results but not as a major source of data or information to reach a conclusion. The research was done through identifying independent factors that affect architectural heritages such as problem of urban heritage management, professional gap, redevelopment, improper structural intervention and natural factors deeply investigated from site investigation and interviews. Theresearch identifies that architectural heritages are vulnerable due to urban redevelopment and lack of understanding the value of heritage. Due to this, the historic buildings were transforming their existing character into modern buildings; In addition, they are missing its historical values. The research would recommends the policy developers and community should be work together to increase the property value of a Arada area. Generally, the study shows that to conserve the architectural heritage located in Arada area, the stakeholders shall be work on revitalization, adaptive re-use, restoration, and renovation.
Assessment of Pedestrian Safety Problems and Its Effect on Urban Mobility: The Case of Kolfe- Keranio Sub-City, Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2026-06-01) Benoni Ayele; Birhanu Girma
Pedestrian mobility constitutes a foundational pillar of sustainable urban development, yet active commuters in rapidly motorizing African cities remain disproportionately exposed to structural, behavioral, and environmental safety hazards. In Addis Ababa, where walking accounts for an estimated 60% to 80% of all daily commuting trips, the urban built environment has historically prioritized vehicular flow over pedestrian protection, generating acute safety deficits. Kolfe-Keranio Sub-City exemplifies this tension, characterized by massive pedestrian volumes, dense mixed-use land-use patterns, and high-speed arterial corridors that concentrate pedestrian-vehicular friction. Despite prior studies examining accident frequencies and pedestrian level of service, a critical empirical gap persists regarding how cumulative safety hazards directly restrict overall walking efficiency and functional urban mobility. This study examines the effect of pedestrian safety hazards—operationalized as Pedestrian Infrastructure (PI), Traffic Conditions (TC), Environmental Factors (EF), and Pedestrian Driver Behaviors (PDB)—on urban pedestrian mobility within Kolfe-Keranio Sub-City. A quantitative cross-sectional research design was adopted. The target population comprised active daily commuters intercepted along major arterial corridors measuring 20 meters or more in width. Using a multi-stage sampling framework guided by land-use and road network maps, 384 structured questionnaires were distributed during peak hours, yielding 366 valid responses (95.3% response rate). Bivariate Pearson correlation and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) multiple linear regression were employed for data analysis. Results indicate that the combined regression model is highly significant (F(4, 361) = 67.071, p < 0.001), collectively explaining 42.6% of the variance in Pedestrian Mobility (R² = 0.426). All four independent variables exert statistically significant positive effects on mobility (p ≤ 0.001). Pedestrian-Driver Behaviors emerged as the strongest predictor (β = 0.375, t = 9.028), followed by Environmental Factors (β = 0.303, t = 6.905), Pedestrian Infrastructure (β = 0.244, t = 5.972), and Traffic Conditions (β = 0.146, t = 3.340). Multicollinearity diagnostics confirm model integrity, with all Variance Inflation Factors below 1.22. The study concludes that pedestrian safety hazards in Kolfe-Keranio Sub-City function as active mechanisms of mobility suppression, particularly for vulnerable groups including children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. The findings validate the global Safe System Approach, confirming that sustainable urban walkability demands a deliberate transition from vehicle-centric planning toward an integrated, pedestrian-centered built environment. Priority recommendations include enforcing automated speed management along arterial roads, installing continuous street lighting, constructing uninterrupted non-motorized transport corridors, and redesigning high-risk commercial intersections with pedestrian-actuated signals and raised crosswalks.
Assessment of Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting Potential as an Alternative Water Source for the Commercial Buildings in Merkato, Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2026-06-01) Rahel Wondmu; Tibebu Assefa
Rapid urbanization and increasing commercial activity in Addis Ababa have put high pressure on the already struggling urban water supply system of AAWSA. This challenge is particularly evident in Merkato, where commercial buildings experience frequent water shortages and supply interruptions. In this context, rooftop rainwater harvesting presents a promising supplementary water source. Therefore, this study assessed the potential of rooftop rainwater harvesting for commercial buildings in Merkato, Addis Ababa. Both qualitative and quantitative research approaches are employed. A census survey was conducted on 34 commercial buildings. The findings showed that municipal water remains the dominant source of supply. However, the AAWSA water supply is unreliable. All buildings use storage tank as coping mechanism for the shortage. The recorded municipal water consumption ranged from 65.28 m³/year to 8352.00 m³/year. Non potable activities represented the dominant category of water use. 79.4% of buildings used water primarily for activities such as toilet cleaning and floor cleaning. All surveyed buildings are physically suitable for RRWH with gutters and roof materials favorable for runoff collection. The estimated annual RRWH potential ranged from 192.64 m³/year to 3693.43 m³/year with a contribution to existing municipal water consumption varying from 6.07% to 169.20%. The analysis of monthly variation revealed that RRWH potential is highly seasonal, with the highest yields occurring during July and August, while minimal contributions are observed in December and January. The study concludes that RRWH has significant potential to reduce dependence on AAWSA and improve water security in commercial buildings in Merkato. Promoting its use, particularly for non-potable applications, can therefore contribute meaningfully to strengthening the urban water supply system.
Assessment of the Effects of Decentralization on Urban Service Delivery: Case Study on Education and Health services Deliverance at Debre Markos Town, Amhara National Regional State
(Addis Ababauniversity, 2011-05) Mahmud Muktar ; Mulugeta Abebe
In Ethiopia rapid urbanization is the product of socio economic development. As a result urban populations have been growing in an alarming rate. This situation mainly aggravated by the two major features: rural-urban migration and natural increase of the population. Due to these demographic changes, pressure put on urban centers in which residents hardly get quality andefficient services. To tackle down such urban problems, the GoE has established decentralization policy that aimed to transfer powers, responsibilities and resources from the central government to regional, zonal, and Wereda levels of administration. This research has given emphasis on education and health service delivery in Debermarkos town case. In this town basic services provision intricate with social problems: inadequate and poor quality of services, less accountability and transparency, insignificant number of professionals, low institutional capacity and minimum public participation in planning, monitoring and decision making process. But these poor conditions of service providers of had not been assessed or studied (i.e. academically); it couldn’t be identified, determined, evaluated and recognized the hindrance for effective implementation of decentralization at the district level. The research used qualitative and quantitative data. This study has assessed the local service providers’ performance in line to quality indicators and the governance values indicators: accountability, transparency and community involvement in the improvement and provision of services. From the findings, it concluded that that decentralization obviously shown improvement in service delivery particularly in schools’ and health centers’ service delivery activities: service providers could perform their duties with autonomy, improve quality and efficient services delivery. However, administrative constraints: clarity of responsibility, accountability, open information flows, and participation have made the services provisions inadequate. The paper suggests that public service providers should be participatory, transparent (free access to information), empowered to decide administrative issues autonomously, accountable to the community, dynamic to identify community interest and should include community input in strategic planning and decision making process in the public service providers. Key words: decentralization, autonomy, accountability, transparent, participation, social service: education service, health service
Assessment of the Quality of Urban Public Open Space for User’s Case Study: Inner City Public Open Space in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-02-01) Eden Dires Agidew; Darik Zebenigus
Public spaces play a critical role in urban environments by creating vibrant, livable communities and promoting social cohesion, civic engagement, and physical activity. The rapid urbanization in Bahir Dar has led to a decline in the quality and functionality of public spaces, presenting challenges such as misuse for unintended purposes, conversion to vacant lands, illegal waste dumping, degradation from urban floods, fragmentation due to gully formations, areas of conflict. Even some urban public open spaces might have existed in unknown conditions. These issues indicate a lack of attention to the quality and proper management of open public spaces in the city. Prioritizing the improvement of public spaces in Bahir Dar is essential to ensure they continue to serve as vital community resources, contributing to the well-being and vitality of urban areas. This study aims to assess the quality of urban public open spaces in the inner city of Bahir Dar through case studies of Shumabo Park, Millennium Park, and Mulualem Street side Public Open Space. It utilized both quantitative data from survey responses and qualitative data from mapping, photography, and direct observation. Primary data was gathered through direct observation and on-site survey questionnaires, while secondary data was obtained from relevant literature and empirical studies. Data collection involved simple random sampling, with a sample size of 100 users from each study area, totaling 300 community members. Methods of data collection included direct observation techniques such as tracing, tracking, and photography, as well as a self-administered questionnaire survey. Descriptive analysis was used based on user behavior (the frequency, duration, and type of activities) and established quality guidelines (context, place, comfort, variety, and connection), with data summarized through tables, graphs, and pictures obtained during the field survey. The study's findings indicated that the quality of the public open spaces did not adequately support optional activities and fall below desired quality levels. Scores based on five quality guidelines showed an average quality below average, indicating poor value for public open spaces. Challenges in managing and maintaining these spaces, along with a lack of public awareness and clear guidelines, contribute to their poor quality. Enhancing, revitalizing, or modifying the public open spaces in Bahir Dar is necessary to meet quality standards. Key Words: Public Open Space, Quality
Assessment of Urban Plan and Design Implementation and Management in Ethiopian Secondary Towns:
(Addis Ababauniversity, 2012-11) Dukale Yohannes; Fisseha Wogayehu
Planned urban development is a phenomenon recently getting a wide acceptance throughout the country in genera and in the study town in particular. Following this fact, Dilla town had been prepared plan for two distinct times (1967 by Italian consultant and 1998 by NUPI). However, when we examine its implementation and management rigorously in the real ground the situation is bounded with a number of problems. When superimposing this to Dilla's current situation in which the town stayed for a half decade by implementing dated out development plan (envisaged to serve only ten years 1998-2008); it could not be exaggeration to one to say urban developments are held without proper or fully consideration of plan. Furthermore, none of the time the implementation, performance and management of the stated plans has been evaluated and monitored. The ultimate goal of urban plans and designs lies in its successful implementation. Urban development without pre-planned activities causes a mess of urban problems, and laissez-faire development having long term repercussions. This research is attempted to exploited the real problems pertained in Dilla town plan/design implementation and management, and then pin points the better means that can potentially foster the socio-economic development of the town. The research work approached with explaining the identified gaps while planning periods. Then after brief descriptions both qualitatively as well as quantitatively employed to describe and provide magnitude of the problems. These are performed through direct on spots observation of the implementation trends, interviewing the direct beneficiaries those believed to have exposure to the issues under study. Spatial physical plan documents like land use, road network, local development plans, etc and reported documents like text summery while plans prepared, municipal reports related with plans and designs implementation and administration have been engaged as a main methodologies for the development of the entire study. Even though, there exists fragmented efforts to guide the socio-economic development of Dilla town in various periods and persons it is found out that the overall performances of plan and design implementation and management is held with bundles of problems. The majors among many are: Institutional capacity of implementing bodies mainly connected with poor documentation of the plan resources, shortage of plan/design making and implementing professionals, skill gaps of available human/personnel resource, shortage of equipments and facilities required for planning and implementation process, shortage of financial capacity and proper utilization of it. Gaps during planning process, absence of means for facilitating implementation, absence of plan monitoring, evaluation and updating trends, absence or lack of stakeholder participation and interference, presence of areas where the boundary till not well delineated, presence of 6 rooms for illegal/informal settlements, are real and major upfront problems among many in the context of Dilla town. Finally, all stake holders at various levels to be equipped with full information about these problems mention here above and had to give especial attention and the clients critically establish unique means and strategies to follow-up and ascertain: Use of up-to-date and recent map information and aerial photo for the acquisition of accurate topographic maps and existing realities;  Conduct and properly forecasted socio-economic linkages study from all possible influential areas;  Consistency of Graphic/spatial representations with implementation strategies, planning goals, objectives and text report;  Ways how public participated and reverse/rectify the immediate mistakes of implementation;  Production of all relevant documents of planning processes in hard copies and in soft copies during planning as well as implementation period. Particularly, zonal administers/city governors/Dilla municipality critically examines and ascertain periodically:  Weather the city had had and under-go in accordance with developmentplan;  Monitor professional, managerial, financial, technical, equipments, etc capacity and situation and then adapt oneself in accordance to expected output and potential of the city
Assessment of Urban tree Canopy Cover: Case of Hawasa City
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-04-01) Gemeda Mekuria Habte; Kalkidan Asnake
Urban Areas Face Increasing Challenges Related To Environmental Sustainability, With The Inadequate Of Green Infrastructure And Tree Canopy Coverage Being A Pressing Concern. This Study Focuses On The Assessment Of Tree Canopy Coverage In Hawasa City, Offering Crucial Insights Into The Multifaceted Benefits It Provides. Methodology Involves Itree, Remote Sensing, GIS Mapping, And Field Surveys, The Research Reveals That The Total Tree Canopy Cover In The City Is Approximately 18%. This Canopy Cover Serves As A Significant Carbon Sink, Storing And Sequestering Around 565,160 Tons Of Carbon, Thereby Contributing To The Mitigation Of Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Levels. Additionally, The Study Finds That The Existing Tree Canopy Generates Substantial Economic Savings, Amounting To $27,321,773 Per Square Mile Per Year, By Reducing Energy Costs Associated With Indoor Cooling. Moreover, The Environmental Advantages Extend To Storm Water Management, With A Reduction Of 135,590 Liters Of Runoff Per Square Mile Per Year. This Not Only Aids In Preventing Property Damage But Also Results In A Significant Cost Savings Estimated At $320 Per Square Mile Per Year. The Study Further Highlights The Role Of Tree Canopy In Mitigating Urban Heat Island By Absorption Heat Energy That Come From The Sun, Revealing That In Each Square Meter Of Land, Light-Leafed Trees Absorb Only 615.18W Of The Solar Heat Energy And Reflecting 307.59W Back Into The Atmosphere. These Findings Underline The Holistic Benefits Of Preserving And Enhancing Tree Canopy Coverage In Urban Areas, Providing A Foundation For Evidence-Based Decision-Making By City Planners And Policymakers. The Methodologies Employed In This Study Offer A Replicable Framework For Similar Assessments, Encouraging The Adoption Of Sustainable Practices. Therefore, The Hawassa City Administration Should Set Tree Cover Targets To Achieve The Desired Balance Between Green And Grey Infrastructure And Enhance The Climate Resilience Level Of The Study Area.
Assessment of Vehicular Parking Space Problem on Urban Transportation: The case of Bole sub-city, Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2026-02-01) Kibreab Azene; Birhanu Girma
Lack of parking spaces in global context is a complex problem that affects the urban transportation in cities. High population and rapid urbanization coupled with augmentation in the quantity of vehicles have advanced the pressures in parking spaces, which has resulted in a massive urban transportation problem and inefficiencies. The primary objective of this paper is to assess the reason behind the inadequate parking facilities especially off-street parking areas that leads to different types of urban transportation problems. This paper examines the reasons and effects of parking space shortages on the urban transportation in Bole Sub City, Addis Ababa. To measure the main factors the study employed primary and secondary methods of data collection and field observations. The collected data were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively, to support the findings, the study incorporated qualitative interviews with stakeholders, Key findings of the research revealed that shortage of parking spaces are some of the factors that cause traffic congestion, decrease in road capacity, and increase in the travel time, and deterioration in the safety of the pedestrians. There is also illegal and double parking behaviors that increase the number of traffic flow delays and reduce the effectiveness of the public transport. The paper concludes by stating that to overcome the problem of parking shortages, integrated urban planning, policy reform, and investment in structured parking facilities are necessary. This effort shall play a key role in enhancing the traffic condition to enhance urban mobility, and sustainable transportation development in the fast expanding cities such as Addis Ababa. The results can be used by urban planners and policymakers to reduce the problem of parking-related transportation issues.
Assessment of Walkability on Selected Streets and Neighborhoods of Hawassa City
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06-18) Mesay Matusala; Nebyou Yonas
This study aims to evaluate the walkability in selected streets and neighborhoods in Hawassa City by identifying the built environment features that affect walkability in inner-city, intermediate, and suburban areas. Additionally, it aims to create a local walkability index for Hawassa. To achieve this, the research has identified the indicators, parameters, and indexes associated with walkability. To determine the walkability status of Hawassa City's inner-city, intermediate, and suburbs, various qualitative and quantitative methods were employed. The study assessed the walkability factors related to the built environment features and examined indicators that impact walkability on Hawassa City streets, then measured the local walkability index. The results indicate that the suburbs are not walkable and mostly lack pedestrian friendly features, with an average 36.54 local walkability index. The Inner City, also known as Arab Sefer, has an average of 71.69, indicating moderate walkability. The intermediate area has an average of 74.77, indicating that it is mostly walkable. Overall, Hawassa City has an LWI ranging from 58.76 to 64.44, with an average of 62.6, which means it is moderately walkable. The study evaluated the quality of footpaths, street patterns, street lighting, visibility, safe pedestrian crossings, even slope or gradient along the route, continuity of routes, a well connected street network, easy access to facilities and services, proximity to destinations such as schools, shops, other local services, and public transport, and developed a local walkability index by measuring perception using a Likert scale, rating weights assigned to the indicators based on their relevance and importance. The study findings from the walkability assessment revealed several factors that affect the walkability of streets and neighborhoods in Hawassa City. These were categorized into five safety-related factors: orientation, comfort, diversity, and local destinations. In conclusion, the study highlights the need for safe, comfortable, secure, diverse, and accessible streets that prioritize pedestrian-friendly urban design Key Words: Walkability Concept, Walkability, Walkability Assessment, Walkability Indicators, Local Walkability Index.
The Aural Privacy of Mixed-Use Residential Buildings in Addis Ababa: The Effect of Commercial Units on Aural Privacy of Residents pf Gotera Condominium
(EiABC, 2019-06) Urgesa Seifu Tilahun; Imam Mahmoud Hassen
Condominium housing project is started to accommodate the housing problem in Addis Ababa. Mass housing development approach has different problem on resident quality of life as compared to other development approach due to mixed land use development and one of the sole indicators in housing quality is that of privacy or “privateness” . The objective of this study is to explore the level of aural privacy in mixed residential building of condominium neighborhood. Therefore, the oldest phase of Integrated Housing Development Program (IHDP); Gotera condominiums is selected for this study. To have desired information from respondentsabout the impact commercial unit on their aural privacy survey method were used.Structured, semi structured interview and measurement is conducted to get quantitative data, and beside this the qualitative data was collected through physical and spatial analysis of the selected site. in addition to this; Standards, documents, research papers, books, maps, reports, proclamations are used by the researcher as a secondary source. Research questions are designed to find out how and to what extent commercial units affect resident aural privacy in terms of unit characteristics. In addition to this coping mechanism by residents and management component by different officials towards aural privacy is the focus of this study. The results show that, residents of mixed residential buildings are highly affected by noise pollution from specific commercial units specially during sleeping time. The level of aural privacy of the residents are different based on spatial, physical, socio-economic and demographic characteristics. High level of noise pollution from commercial units has its own impact on resident’s health and day to day activity.To control high noise pollution from specific commercial units, vulnerable residents use different coping mechanisms, while noise pollution management by concerning bodies is weak due to lack of knowledge among officials, corruption, servility, ignorance, unorganized working structure.The study recommends four strategies to ease the residents from sound pollution in mixed residential buildings. Zoning within neighborhood design, typology design, clear management towards the noise pollution and finally further study toward this area are essential to increase the aural privacy
Business Properties Partial Taking Expropriation for Road Projects and Valuation for Compensation:The Case of two Road Corridors in Addis Ababa Ethiopia
(EiABC, 2018) Dewish Haymanot; Eyasu Kumera
Urban upgrading and renewal programs require demolishing and reconstructing existing areas. Typically, these interventions require the public acquisition of assets and land with payment of compensation. Usually such acquisition of land involves two types of acquisition, partial and total acquisition of land. Each type of acquisition involves different principles and legislative provisions in assessing compensation. Similarly, in Ethiopia Land is presently being expropriated for roads, real estate development and other massive infrastructure developments.In this regard though different principles and methods are involved in assessing compensation with in partial and total land acquisition, sufficient researches are not carried out considering partial takings as a single entity.Studies generally focus on legal and administrative aspects than calculation of the compensation quantum of partial takings. Therefore, the aim of the study is to examine valuation and compensation practices in partial land acquisition of business properties for road projects. For this purpose, two case study areas are selected purposively. Primary and secondary data collection method used by using interviews, observation and document reviews as a tool. Qualitative and quantitative data analysis has been used to analyze this research and descriptive method of analysis has been used. The findings reveal that, for valuing properties for partial taking there are two different methods of valuation which are before and after and taking plus damage method of valuation. From which the appraisal problem for partial acquisitions is essentially a before and after process using either the "Federal Rule" or "State Rule". Then study adopts the before and after method using the income approach in analyzing the data obtained. And recommended the state rule to minimize claims and fairly compensate what has been taken from the owner.
The Case of Addis Ababa-along Ring Road from Bole Square to Megenaga Square
(Addis Ababauniversity, 2010-06) G/Tsadik Tewedros; Singh Gurdeep
Cities are fascinating because, in our increasingly urban world, they are intimately tied into almost the complete totality of human life. This makes them such vibrant and exciting places in which to live and also to study. Today due to many reasons: Employment, Education, Health and other opportunities, people prefer to live in cites, and as such population increases in the cities. Providing of land for various activities and fulfilling the required services became the challenge of the Administration. To overcome these problems, proper utilization of recourses such as Land (Urban Vacant Land) plays significant role. In this respect the Urban Vacant Land Management and Development assures the development of the city in the positive direction. Land is intrinsically a social rather than a private commodity. Literature explains that, Vacant and abandoned properties present both a significant problem, and also an opportunity, for many central cities. As Vacant Land represents both a significant problem and an attractive opportunity for many central cities, Vacant Land imposes both economic and social costs on cities in general and the neighborhoods or districts in particular in which the vacant land is located. On the economic side, such properties lower neighboring property values and tax revenues even as they create pressure to raise taxes to maintain service levels. Likewise, vacant land imposes significant social costs on communities as images of blight, as targets for vandalism and criminal activities, and as such it is unsafe and unhealthy plot for residents. It is, therefore, the main objective of this study to investigate what hinders and what are the reasons for the under utilization of the existing Urban Vacant Land in Addis Ababa. The study has three major parts. The first part is the general part in which it discussed about the need for the study, its significance and the rationale behind this study. It also states objectives and scope of the study, limitation of the study and points that the study would like to investigate. The second part deals with the review of relevant literature. In this part the research reviewed books, study papers, relevant publications and discussed the concept of Vacant Land, its Types, Properties conditions and Characteristics in general globally and tries to present the concept of Urban Vacant Land rationally
Challenges of Pedestrian Movement in Addis Ababa: The Case of Bole Sub-City
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-11-01) Melisew Andarge; Birhanu Girma (PhD)
Walking is being promoted as either a main mode of transportation or as a part of multimodal mobility. Despite the advantage of walking mode of transport, there is no standard pedestrian facility not only in quality but also in the capacity. Thus, pedestrian accidents are a serious and growing problem in the world, especially in the cities of low income and middle-income countries. To answer all the research questions, a 1 to 5 Likert scale , correlation and multiple linear regression models were used. Moreover, primary and secondary data were collected using research tools and collected data was analyzed using (SPSS) version 20. Results showed that the presence of rubbish dumped on pedestrian walkways, temporary garbage storage on pedestrian walkways and unlimited excavation and construction materials dumped on pedestrian walkway were the major challenges in pedestrian side walk. Besides, design of pedestrian facilities can lead to endless problems and can discourage the pedestrians due to a feeling of unselfishness, unprotected, or uncomfortable conditions. Thus, it is recommended that while planning urban road facilities, pedestrian crossings should be given due importance and placed accordingly so that its impact does not affect the traffic flow to a higher level. Keywords: Bole Sub-city, Pedestrian, Roadside Vendors, Obstruction, Street Parking
Challenges of Urban Plan Implementation in Small Towns of Ethiopia: The Case of Gelan town
(Addis Ababauniversity, 2011-05) legesse Habtamu; mahiteme Yirgalem
The sudden establishment and eventual growth of Gelan town brought many urban plan implementation challenges that need to be investigated tominimize the spillover impacts of urbanization in Gelan town. Gelan town is established after the establishment of some investments and has been grown by displacing and affecting the livelihood of local farmers. The overall impacts of urbanization on the local farmers requires to look into the local ecologytowards which Gelan town is expanding, role of investments operating in the area, the plan that guides development and future expansion. This research is an attempt to investigate the challenges of urban plan implementation in Gelan town with a particular emphasis on the livelihood of farmers, role of investments of the town to the local economic development and ground water resource of the area. Accordingly, to look into the issues I have used both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis techniques.Data collected through interviews, questionnaires and field observations were analyzed and presented through discussions, tables, figures and maps. The findings revealed that most investments and recreational centers before the establishment of Gelan are located along highway and occupy large blocks that hinder accessibility of land uses at the back. The ground water catchment area of Akaki partially within the planning unit of Gelan town. Intensive constructions taking place in the area is believed to have a negative impact on the ground water recharge of the area from where water is supplied to the population of southern Addis Ababa. The research also found out that farmers whose livelihood is based on farming are forced to change their livelihood strategies by renting farmland using money obtained through compensation. As a result, the livelihood of farmers is negatively affected. The analysis of Gelan town structure plan showed that the plan was implemented poorly and lacked plan evaluation, monitoring and updating taskforce. As a result, irregular and irrational development as well as incompatible land uses are common along Addis Ababa-Adama highway crossing the town
Characteristics of Mixed Income Neighborhoods in Addis Ababa: The case of Aroge Kera
(Addis Ababauniversity, 2014-06) Hellom Fantahun; Yonas Alemayehu
This research is motivated by the existence of different mixed income groups in the city of Addis Ababa where segregation is not seen commonly. Thus, the main purpose of this research is to identify and analyze the characteristics of mixed income neighborhoods in older residential settlements of Addis Ababa. For this, major objectives such as: identifying the socio-economic and spatial characteristics, analyzing the factors and elements that brings mixed-character and investigating the problems and benefits of mixed income neighborhood was set. And case study methodology was used to test and understand real existed situation in a selected study area through primary and secondary data collection techniques. To test the existence of mixed income neighborhood in Addis Ababa, Aroge Kera area which is located in Arada sub-city, kebele 01/02 has been chosen for the case study. This area have been investigated in-depth with the life stories of high, middle and low income households based on formulated socio-economic filters such as: sources of income, household income, social interaction, job opportunity, participation in social activity, sharing of household equipment and services. Spatial filters such as: social service and infrastructures, house type, local road, public and private open spaces, compound characters were also used. Then, the data is analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Quantitative issues were analyzed by graphs and descriptions, while qualitative issues were analyzed by maps, tables and descriptions that show comparison and relationships. The major socio-economic findings identified in this research are: the low income people benefited in getting job opportunity and financial support from the middle and high income people when facing problem. The high and middle income households get cheap labor from the low income residents during events like wedding, ceremonies, funeral by preparing injera, wot and tela. The major spatial findings identified for the existences of mixed income neighborhood are: different house types, private spaces, compound and availability of service for all income level residents. The house type based on area for high income is 120-180m2, middle income 60-100m2 and 15-3m2 for low income households. Compound and front yard for high income one household live in one compound, for middle income 3-6 households live in one compound and for low income 9-13 households live in one compound. As any other neighborhoods the research also identified problems in the neighborhood such as: shortage of children‘s playground, security problem, and the low income households are more affected by lack of common space in the compound. Based on these findings socially mixed design incorporating spatial elements is suggested and also recommendations and design proposal is forwarded
Comfort of Streets As A Public Space: The Case of Selected LRT Streets in Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-02-01) Hunde Motera Wakjira; Darik Zebenigus Wuhib
Despite being an important part of urban public space, streets are often designed primarily for cars, not people. This can make them hostile and uninviting, which discourages people from using them. This study examined the selected street segments along the Light Rail Transit (LRT) of Addis Ababa for one of the qualities of the place-making approach, which is comfort from aspects of the physical setting, safety, and sense of pleasure. With the methods of literature review, observation, and survey, the study attempts to understand the expected qualities and limitations on the ground. Three objectives are set to address the issue. One is to grasp quality parameters and attributes from existing literature by using content analysis. The second objective is to investigate the physical context and pedestrian activity on the street using observation and pedestrian counting with the descriptive statistics analysis method. The third objective is to evaluate the performance of the pedestrian environment as a public space using Vikas Mehta's "public space index" (PSI) analysis. Based on the results and discussion, the streets were found to be crowded, lack diversity in user types, and have limitations in the provision of optional activities. There is compromised overall comfort in the physical setting, safety, and sense of pleasure caused by a lack of provision of sidewalk elements, maintenance, and appropriate use. Keywords: street, pedestrian, comfort, public space, street as a public space.

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