Addis Ababa Wins 2026 Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities

Addis Ababa has been named one of the winners of the 2026 Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities (Shanghai Award), presented by UN-Habitat and China. The award recognizes cities that have demonstrated significant progress in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the New Urban Agenda. Mayor Adanech Abiebie stated that the recognition reflects the city's successful urban renewal initiatives, including expanded housing, improved public transport, and the development of green spaces. This achievement follows the city's 2024 Seoul Smart City Prize, further cementing the capital's status in urban development. Mayor Adanech noted that the award highlights the effectiveness of the city's human-centered urban model, which aims to improve the well-being of its residents. Alongside Addis Ababa, four other cities—Santiago de Cali (Colombia), Istanbul (Türkiye), Jingdezhen (China), and Katowice (Poland)—received the 2026 accolade.