Vanity Projects or Visionary Planning?

It seems to have become a habit of mine to comment on what’s unfolding in Ethiopia — and today is no different. While I acknowledge the government’s efforts to modernize Addis Ababa and other towns across the country, I can’t help but ask: at what cost? Much of what is being done feels like a misuse of scarce resources. The money spent on beautifying Addis and other cities could be far better invested in improving education, expanding healthcare access, or strengthening basic infrastructure.

The latest example is the government’s proposal to build an aerial cable car in Addis Ababa — a project I recently heard about through one of the pro-regime media outlets. Officially, it’s being promoted as a solution to the city’s daily transport challenges. But anyone familiar with how these things work knows that’s not the real motivation. I suspect the true purpose is cosmetic: another attempt to make the city look modern and comparable to the great cities of the world. No doubt it will cost millions of dollars.

I don’t wish to sound overly harsh, but it’s difficult to see this as anything other than another vanity project. While it may appear attractive and even convenient, the cost of construction and operation will likely outweigh its benefits. Instead, investing in expanding and improving the existing light-rail network would offer a far more practical and sustainable solution to Addis Ababa’s transportation woes.

Beautifying cities can be visually pleasing, but such efforts do little to attract the kind of high-tech investment the prime minister often speaks of. Without serious investment in education — in nurturing skilled and innovative citizens — Ethiopia will only attract low-wage, labor-intensive industries. Vision and infrastructure must go hand in hand with human capital development.

Ultimately, it’s a question of priorities. While most people appreciate modern amenities, the government should focus on projects that genuinely meet people’s needs and are economically sound. Only then can the country build on real progress, rather than merely constructing a façade of success.