Women’s History Month: Women Worth Mentioning in Ethiopian Real Estate and Urban development

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Live Ethio

Mar 10, 2025

In honor of Women’s History Month, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of women who have shaped Ethiopia’s real estate market. From urban development to property investment, these women have paved the way for future generations, proving that the industry is not just for men.


Adanech Abebe: Transforming Addis Ababa’s Urban Landscape


As the first female mayor of Addis Ababa, Adanech Abebe is spearheading massive urban development projects to modernize the city. Under her leadership, Addis Ababa is seeing increased foreign investment, better real estate regulations, and a shift toward affordable housing projects.

Her administration has launched a $560 million housing initiative, attracting both local developers and Ethiopian diaspora investors. However, the rapid changes have sparked debates, particularly regarding land displacement and the affordability of houses for sale in Addis Ababa Ethiopia.

Her impact can be compared to Ethiopia’s 2024 real estate trends, where developers are adjusting to economic shifts. Read more about the government’s role in real estate reforms in New Regulation for Ethiopian Real Estate Developers in 2024: Funds Now Secured in Closed Accounts.


Lily Mengesha: Innovating Sustainable Urban Housing


As the founder of Actuel Urban Living, Lily Mengesha has focused on developing sustainable real estate projects that cater to Ethiopia’s growing middle-class housing market. Her work promotes eco-friendly buildings and affordable condominiums in Addis Ababa Ethiopia, providing modern living spaces that are both practical and environmentally friendly.


Helina: Leading Construction Projects in Addis Ababa


At just 25, Helina is making a name for herself in real estate construction. As a project manager for one of Addis Ababa’s largest residential and commercial real estate firms, she is overseeing multiple apartment developments and villas for sale in Addis Ababa Ethiopia.


Women’s Role in Property and Inheritance


Women in Ethiopia have historically fought for their property rights, with legal cases dating back to the 18th century. While Ethiopia’s real estate laws have improved, challenges remain in securing land for sale  for female entrepreneurs and investors.

For insights on navigating Ethiopia’s legal landscape, check out Can Ethiopia’s New Real Estate Bill Address Industry Scandals and Close Regulatory Gaps in a Growing Market?.

Empowering Future Generations in Ethiopian Real Estate


The achievements of women like Adanech Abebe, Lily Mengesha, and Helina highlight the importance of female leadership in real estate investment and urban development. Their contributions not only shape Addis Ababa’s skyline but also inspire the next generation of women to enter property development, real estate marketing, and urban planning.

For those interested in real estate investment opportunities, explore our guide on Discovering Hidden Gems: Property Investment in Bishoftu


Women continue to break barriers in Ethiopia’s real estate industry,are not just for male investors. As the industry evolves, female entrepreneurs will play an even bigger role in shaping Ethiopia’s real estate market.

Want to know more about the Ethiopian real estate sector? Stay updated with our latest insights on How Remittance Campaigns Are Reviving Ethiopia’s Real Estate Market.