Urban Green Space Planning, Policy Implementation, and Challenges: The Case of Addis Ababa

Shibire Bekele Eshetu,Stefan Sieber,Kumelachew Yeshitela

doi:10.3390/su132011344

Abstract

Urban forestry and green spaces have less priority in urban planning. This research intends to assess the policy and planning of urban green spaces with their potential implementation status and challenges in planning and implementation. The general objective is to assess urban green space planning, policy, and implementation strategies and challenges encountered in Addis Ababa. The primary data was collected through key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and field observation; secondary data from a literature review along with examining policy and masterplans of Addis Ababa has been used. The mapping of stakeholder and institutional arrangements is analyzed using stakeholders’ consultation. Triangulation is used for data validation and analysis. Existing policy and proclamations must be supported by legislative regulations and implementation frameworks that provide the basis for concrete action plans. The incentives stipulated by the forest policy are not implemented to the required level. The 10th masterplan of the city (2017–2027) shows that the city will increase its green area development and public recreation coverage to 30% by 2020. Principles, such as multi-functionality, connectivity, green-grey interaction, and social inclusiveness, are considered in the planning of the green space development in the 10th masterplan. The research concludes that regulations and directives are not clearly drafted by responsible bodies, and low enforcement is hardly applied with respect to the green space development of Addis Ababa.

Highlights

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goal 11 aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable [1]
Urban Planning Proclamation no 547/2008 has the scope to be applied to all urban centers throughout Ethiopia
There are some urban green space projects being implemented that are not included in the 2017–2027 masterplan

Summary

Introduction

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goal 11 aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable [1]. Greenspaces in Africa’s urban regions are still hardly recognized in policymaking [5]. It is shown that there is a lack of appropriate green infrastructure approaches that integrate well into the planning and governance system of cities [7,8]. To achieve the development of green spaces that provide environmental, economic, and social benefits, the basic principle of connectivity, multi-functionality, and social inclusiveness must be considered during planning [9]. Green spaces should be treated well among the top priorities of the development agenda of urban planning authorities with the allied institutions managing greenspaces [10]

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion