Constructing a roadmap for the construction of 12,000 playgrounds in Addis Ababa
Creating Joyful Playgrounds for Every Child in Addis Ababa
A groundbreaking initiative is underway in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, aimed at providing playgrounds for all young children in the city. The "Playgrounds for Early Years: Guidebook for Design and Implementation" is a collaborative effort between Superpool, the Addis Ababa ECD Program, and the Van Leer Foundation.
This guidebook serves as a promise for safe, accessible, and joyful outdoor spaces for children aged 0-3 in Addis Ababa. The plan is to create at least 2 playgrounds per block across the city, totalling approximately 12,000 playgrounds[1][2].
The importance of outdoor play for young children cannot be overstated. It promotes physical health, cognitive development, social skills, emotional wellbeing, and a connection with nature. Recognizing this, the Mayor of Addis Ababa, Adanech Abiebie, has pledged to create outdoor play areas for all children in the city.
The outdoor spaces promised are intended to be located minutes from the children's homes, making them easily accessible for all. The Van Leer Foundation is also a partner in the implementation of this plan, further ensuring its success.
The new guidebook offers a practical roadmap for building these 12,000 playgrounds in Addis Ababa. It provides valuable insights and tips for planning, designing, and building playgrounds that cater specifically to young children. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing early childhood development through play in Addis Ababa.
[1] The Addis Ababa ECD Program [2] The Van Leer Foundation
In line with the Mayor's pledge, these 12,000 playgrounds will not only foster physical health and cognitive development among children aged 0-3 but also enhance their emotional wellbeing and social skills, thereby promoting a holistic approach to their lifestyle. To facilitate easy access, these playgrounds will be strategically located minutes from the children's homes, creating an seamless blend of outdoor-living and home-and-garden environments for a joyful childhood in Addis Ababa.
