Ethiopia reaffirms commitment to Affordable Housing

Ethiopia has reaffirmed its commitment to affordable housing, urban resilience, and protecting vulnerable communities, the Ministry of Urban and Infrastructure announced on Tuesday.

The pledge was emphasized at a high-level panel discussion on housing in Ethiopia and Africa, convened in Addis Ababa by Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia in partnership with the Habitat for Humanity Africa Area Office. The forum brought together policymakers, development partners, and housing experts to exchange best practices and design actionable strategies for inclusive housing solutions.

For more on Ethiopian Time Lines visit BBC

State Minister of Urban and Infrastructure Hellen Debebe, in her opening remarks, described housing as “a foundation for dignity, security, and economic opportunity,” stressing that access to adequate housing remains a core part of Ethiopia’s development agenda. She added that government efforts are focusing on multiple delivery mechanisms to tackle the country’s long-standing housing deficit.

“We remain committed to working hand-in-hand with partners to expand access to affordable housing, strengthen urban resilience, and uplift the most vulnerable groups,” she said.

Habitat for Humanity International CEO Jonathan Reckford urged a shift “from shelter to system” to build sustainable and inclusive housing models across Africa, underscoring the need for climate-resilient environments that guarantee safe and future-proof living spaces.

Judith Nabakooba, Chairperson of the African Union’s Specialized Technical Committee on Housing and Urbanization (AU-STC No.8), stressed the importance of affordable housing, targeted capacity building, stronger coordination, and peer learning among member states. She pointed out that under Agenda 2063, the African Union recognizes adequate housing as a cornerstone of inclusive development and sustainable urbanization, aimed at reducing Africa’s housing deficit and strengthening social equity.