Unmute<\/p>\n
Addis Ababa, May 28, 2026 \u2014Child development experts have praised Addis Ababa\u2019s growing investment in green spaces, safe play areas, and child-focused urban planning, describing the initiative as a major step toward improving children\u2019s cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being.<\/p>\n
Speaking to ENA, the experts noted that the city\u2019s rapid efforts, driven by strong political commitment and resource mobilization, could generate long-term gains in education, public health, and economic productivity.<\/p>\n
Child development psychologist Wondim Belachew said childhood development remains insufficiently prioritized across Africa, noting that Addis Ababa\u2019s approach offers an important example for other cities on the continent.<\/p>\n
\u201cAddis Ababa City Municipality and the Ethiopian government are taking what appears to be exemplary measures because, first, they are showing political commitment and, second, they are mobilizing resources,\u201d he said. \u201cIt is a great start and a big move.\u201d<\/p>\n
Wondim emphasized that investment in children is ultimately an investment in a country\u2019s future workforce and social development.<\/p>\n
\u201cInvestment in children means investment in the future,\u201d he said. \u201cIf you support parents early on, then you make sure that the future is bright.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to him, creating spaces where children can play, interact, and explore is essential for healthy development.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you build, we have to leave space for children to play, interact, and also experiment,\u201d he noted. \u201cPlay is very important. It is equal to food, medication and parental care.\u201d<\/p>\n
He also warned that cramped living environments can negatively affect children\u2019s physical growth and mobility development.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Jodi Pawluski highlighted the importance of clean, green, and safe urban environments for children, particularly in densely populated cities.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think it\u2019s really valuable to consider the importance of having access to green space,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese are very valuable. For individuals living in apartments, for example, it is always great to see access to parks or other natural environments.\u201d<\/p>\n
Dr. Pawluski described Addis Ababa\u2019s expanding parks and safe play areas as important tools that can support child development in urban settings.<\/p>\n
The experts noted that prioritizing child-friendly environments during early childhood can produce lasting benefits in learning outcomes, health conditions, and overall productivity.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Unmute Addis Ababa, May 28, 2026 \u2014Child development experts have praised Addis Ababa\u2019s growing investment in green spaces, safe play areas, and child-focused urban planning, describing the initiative as a major step toward improving children\u2019s cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being. Speaking to ENA, the experts noted that the city\u2019s rapid efforts, driven by strong political […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":84,"featured_media":44542,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,12],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-44543","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-all-news","category-policy"],"yoast_head":"\n