The state-owned electricity provider in Ethiopia, known as the Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU), has announced plans to move out of its current office space in Addis Ababa. Adanech Abebe, the Mayor of Addis Ababa, announced that during her visit to ongoing urban renewal initiatives in the city.
The Mayor disclosed the intention to transform the renowned “Electric Hinsta” structure, situated in the heart of Piassa Square, into a mixed-use development. This new project will feature a combination of commercial spaces, retail outlets, and cafes.
The iconic “Electric Hinsta” building, which has stood as the headquarters of Ethiopia’s state-owned electricity provider for decades, is set to undergo a significant transformation. The building was built on 3,543 square meters and constructed 70 years ago.
Moreover, the mayor’s office has announced plans to convert this prime downtown property into a more publicly accessible and commercially-oriented space. Renovation work has already commenced on the building, intending to revitalize the area and provide a wider range of amenities and services to the local community.
Rather than simply relocating to another existing building, the Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU) has opted to construct a brand-new, 36-story tower in the rapidly developing Kirkos District.
The new headquarters will occupy a sizable 10,000-square-meter plot of land, providing ample space for the company to design purpose-built workspaces and facilities. With a substantial budget of 1.2 billion Birr, the EEU aims to complete the construction of this 4,500-square-meter tower within the next four years.
However, Shiferaw Telila, the CEO of Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU), stated that the company’s leadership has not yet received an official communication regarding their relocation from the premises. “We have not been informed about such plans so far,”
The decision to convert the historic Electric Hinsta building in Addis Ababa’s Piassa Square into a commercial complex means it will join several other older structures in the area that have recently been demolished. This move highlights the ongoing challenge faced by the city’s urban planners in their efforts to preserve historical landmarks while simultaneously modernizing the urban landscape.
However, people have different opinions on this matter. Some argue that too many buildings with cultural significance have been unnecessarily demolished, while others counter that strategic redevelopment is crucial to attracting businesses and investments to the city.
Other Stories
Ethiopian Ministry of Industry Says Import Substitution Saved $1.9 Billion
Safaricom Ethiopia Seeks Additional $350 Million Loan from IFC
More Stories
Universities in Amhara Region Suspend Student Admissions
Ethiopian Airlines Suspends All Flights to Lebanon and Israel
Debre Berhan University Wraps Up 12th Grade Exams