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

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.

Policy Implementation and Institutional Mechanism for Urban Green Space

“…Strategic directions are (1) to improve the legal environment with an effective implementation system, (2) to create a sustainable source of funding for urban greening, (3) to introduce appropriate technology to protect and expand UGS, and (4) to enhance public awareness. The six principles are (1) to organize law enforcement actions to safeguard the quality of living; (2) to improve tree inventory and ecological assessment with land classification and registration; (3) to clarify the responsibilities of citizens, business entities and organizations for expanding green space; (4) to solve problems by mobilizing domestic resources and capacity; (5) to incentivize private sector initiatives, and (6) to use collaborative and participatory approaches at all levels.…”

“…Zhou et al [7] argued that well-developed policy documents are important for adequate UGS implementation. Eshetu et al [5] contended that UGS should be prioritized in the urban development policy. It can be designed in a way that meets diverse societal needs [8].…”

Urbanization and urban land use efficiency in Ethiopia : remote sensing and institutional-based analysis

“…Ethiopia's land policy is not clearly defined and is known for its ambiguities (Eshetu et al, 2021;Wubneh, 2018). There is also a lack of standard operating procedures (World Bank, 2016).…”

“…recently, much focus has been on unsustainable urban expansion through land expropriation. Likewise, not much has been done to protect green and environmentally sensitive areas which have become an easy target for squatters and informal settlements (Alem, 2021;Eshetu et al, 2021). To achieve compact cities and protect the environment and biodiversity, the country needs policies that enable cities to achieve the UN recommended urban density.…”

“…Furthermore, the articles of the Urban Lands Lease Holding Proclamation 2011 (article 21) and the Urban Planning Proclamation 2008 (articles 5/4 and 26/1) on efficient urban land utilization and environmental protection have not been effectively implemented. For instance, the urban green space policy, Eshetu et al, (2021) write, only existed on paper.…”