Urbanization in Ethiopia has been a recent phenomenon with the country's population gradually shifting from rural to urban areas. The urbanization process in Ethiopia is driven by several factors, including rural-urban migration, natural population growth, and the government's urbanization policy. The urbanization rate in Ethiopia has been increasing since the 1960s, and it is currently estimated to be around 20 percent.
The process of urbanization in Ethiopia has been characterized by the rapid growth of cities and towns, resulting in the formation of urban agglomerations. The process has been facilitated by the expansion of infrastructure such as roads, communication networks, and electricity, which have attracted people to cities. The government has also played a significant role in urbanization by implementing policies aimed at urban development, such as the construction of public housing and the establishment of industrial parks.
However, urbanization in Ethiopia is facing several challenges, including a lack of affordable housing, inadequate infrastructure, and high rates of poverty and unemployment. This has resulted in the emergence of informal settlements, such as slums, and a proliferation of informal economic activities. Additionally, urbanization has also led to environmental degradation, such as deforestation and air pollution, as well as increased demand for resources such as water and food.
In conclusion, the process of urbanization in Ethiopia has been influenced by various factors, including rural-urban migration, natural population growth, and government policies. While urbanization has brought about numerous benefits, such as increased economic opportunities and improved access to services, it also presents significant challenges, including environmental degradation and social inequality.