Urban and rural transformation at the heart of Medemer State book, says Premier Abiy

Addis Ababa, August 20, 2025 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) highlighted in his latest book, Medemer State, the central role of urban and rural development in Ethiopia’s prosperity, emphasizing the need for modernization, innovation, and inclusive growth.

In an exclusive interview with Fana Media Corporation, PM Abiy explained that cities are engines of economic growth, innovation, and civic culture.

Urban areas such as Addis Ababa have been modernized in accordance with pre-election promises, including corridor development projects that provide employment, improve public security, and enhance the quality of life for residents.

“Urbanization is not only about infrastructure; it is about creating a lifestyle that enables human prosperity, facilitates services, and integrates social, economic, political, and environmental systems,” he said.

The book details how urban areas contribute to trade, industry, job creation, innovation, political engagement, and environmental integration.

The Prime Minister further elaborated that urbanization strengthens social cohesion, allowing people of diverse languages, religions, and backgrounds to live together in an orderly and productive environment.

Urban areas also serve as centers of political engagement and civic culture, fostering dialogue, problem-solving, and participatory governance.

In addition to urban development, Medemer State highlights the importance of rural corridors that interconnect with cities, ensuring that growth is holistic and inclusive.

The rural corridor in Central Ethiopia, scheduled for inauguration, reflects a multi-sectoral vision that combines education, health, and livelihood improvement with broader national development strategies.

PM Abiy also emphasized the critical role of the government-public partnership, noting that community involvement in tree planting, corridor development, and school renovation has been instrumental in achieving tangible outcomes.

“The Medemer philosophy demonstrates that when the government and the people work together with a shared vision, transformative projects can transcend local and even national boundaries,” he said.

The book positions this integrated urban-rural model as a long-term strategy for sustainable development, ensuring that modernization benefits all Ethiopians while fostering innovation, employment, and civic participation.