ADDIS ABABA - May 14, 2026 – The Government of Ethiopia and the Government of Italy today officially signed a €5,000,000 grant agreement to launch the Kebena Tributaries Riverside Development Project. This strategic initiative, situated in the Yeka Sub-city of Addis Ababa and supported by the agreement in place, seeks to transform the ecological and social landscape of the River Kebena basin.

The project will be implemented over 24 months by the Addis Ababa Urban Beautification and Greenery Development Bureau (UBGDB). It is designed to directly support Ethiopia’s transition toward a green economy and contribute to the objectives of the 2030 Agenda by strengthening natural resource management and enhancing urban climate resilience.

Ethiopia's Minister of Finance, H. E. Ahmed Shide noted that the project aims to restore two heavily polluted tributaries of the Kebena River through infrastructure improvements such as constructing sewer lines, installing rainstorm drainage, protecting riverbanks with geo-engineering methods, and establishing a riparian buffer zone with native plants and community facilities. He underlined that the measures will help reduce pollution, prevent erosion, and create a safe, accessible natural area for the local community.

H. E. Ahmed Shide, emphasized that the Kebena tributaries project aligns with national reform goals, promoting sustainable jobs, green tourism, and environmentally-friendly urban growth. He highlighted it as a model of effective cooperation and expressed gratitude for Italy’s support through Development Policy Operations to strengthen macroeconomic stability and reforms.

H.E. Sem Fabrizi, Ambassador of Italy to Ethiopia, highlighted the technical and environmental importance of the collaboration noting that Italy has a longstanding and sincere commitment to Ethiopia and is proud to support Addis Ababa’s vision of becoming greener, more resilient, and inclusive through the "Beautifying Sheger" program. He added that the partnership emphasizes environmentally responsible, locally driven, and socially beneficial development. The agreement highlights the importance of clean rivers, green spaces, and sustainable infrastructure for healthier communities, better quality of life, and climate resilience. Appreciation is expressed to Ethiopian leaders, city officials, community members, and partners for their dedication and collaboration.

The intervention is expected to benefit approximately 9,000 people living along the targeted catchment areas. Beyond environmental restoration, the project will empower the local community by entrusting them with the day-to-day management of the new facilities and promoting women’s access to the formal labor market through the management of sanitation and recreational services.

This initiative is part of the broader Beautifying Sheger program, which has already successfully realized landmark urban spaces such as Friendship Park. By integrating this new development with the city’s Sanitation and Storm Water Drainage Master Plans, Ethiopia and Italy are setting a new standard for sustainable urban redevelopment in Africa.