Urban green infrastructure accessibility for the achievement of SDG 11 in rapidly urbanizing cities of Ethiopia

Abstract

Rapid urban expansion across the globe has created enormous problems on human wellbeing and the environment. In this regard, urban green infrastructure has played a major role in improving the quality of life and is perceived as one of the vital instruments for attaining sustainable development goals. Yet, the issue of access to green spaces is one of the crucial aspects of sustainable urban development and has got considerable attention in the global north, although relatively little is known in the global south. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the accessibility of green spaces and the factors that enhance or inhibit their accessibility in urban centers of Ethiopia in reference to the emerging towns of Oromia's special zone surrounding Finfinne. This study used network analysis, backed by interviews and observation. Results show that the average green space per capita in the towns of Sululta, Sebeta, and Legetafo is 2.66 m2, 0.9 m2, and 2.17 m2, respectively. Findings also showed that 84.7%, 64.6%, and 60.4% of the inhabitants of Sululta, Sebeta, and Legetafo, respectively, have no access to green spaces from their residences within a walking distance of 300–1000 m. The key factors that hinder its accessibility are rapid urban expansion and population growth, violation of the plan, and institutional failure. The study suggests enhancing the percentage, coverage and per capita of green spaces, controlling land-use violations, and prioritizing it as one of the key government agendas in order to achieve the eleventh goal of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.