RINA leads Addis Ababa’s wastewater transformation

Challenge

Since 2020, Addis Ababa has been experiencing rapid urban growth, placing increasing pressure on its aging wastewater infrastructure. The city’s existing sanitation framework, based on the 2002 Master Plan, no longer meets the needs of its expanding population or the sustainability goals outlined in Ethiopia’s Growth and Transformation Plan II (GTP II). To address this gap, the Addis Ababa Water and Sewerage Authority (AAWSA) launched a strategic initiative to redefine the city’s wastewater management vision and ensure equitable, affordable sanitation services for all residents. This initiative was being carried out under the World Bank-funded Second Ethiopian Urban Water and Sanitation Project (UWSSP-II). 

Applied expertise

RINA was selected to lead the development of a new Wastewater Master Plan for Addis Ababa, covering the planning horizons of years 2030, 2035, and 2045. Leveraging our multidisciplinary expertise and in-depth understanding of infrastructure challenges in emerging urban contexts, we delivered: 

- Comprehensive forecasting and analysis of technical options for wastewater treatment plants. 

- An implementation plan supported by detailed financial and economic analyses. 

- Institutional strengthening support to enhance governance and operational capacity. 

- Design parameters and sizing for wastewater treatment plants, sludge treatment facilities, and transfer stations. 

- Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) and Resettlement Action Plans (RAP). 

- Inclusive and affordable sanitation solutions tailored to low-income communities. 

- Our approach ensures that every recommendation is firmly grounded in local realities while aligned with international standards and long-term development objectives. 

Impact

This project has enabled Addis Ababa to transition toward a modern, resilient, and inclusive sanitation system. The new Master Plan provided a clear roadmap for infrastructure investments to improve public health, protect the environment, and enhance the quality of life for millions of residents. By combining technical excellence with a client-centric vision, we have helped AAWSA and the Ethiopian government turn strategic ambitions into tangible outcomes, setting a benchmark for urban water management across the region.