The governance and management of green spaces in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Despite the increase in the depletion of green spaces, studies on the governance of green space management are limited in rapidly urbanizing African cities, this study examines the application of urban park management models, governance principles, and identifies barriers related to governance processes in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed to obtain and analyze data. In general, the study has identified poor park governance practices. However, there is a tendency towards the application of governance by local communities using the User-Centered Model whereby community green spaces are managed by urban communities. The findings suggest the need to focus on a long-term design that encompasses additional recreational areas and to establish integrated green space management. Adapting the strategic park management and park-organization-user model that incorporates three governance levels is also important. This research contributes to the emerging literature on the governance of the management models used for parks, protected areas, and community green spaces. The analysis of park management models and governance principles presented may be useful for the sustainable long-term management of green spaces in urbanizing African cities.