CMC, Addis Ababa

CMC is a residential area in eastern Addis Ababa, on the main road between Megenagna and Ayat. The light rail's east-west line runs through it. CMC has older villa compounds, newer apartment blocks and condominium sites. In recent years it also gained the Addis International Convention Center and Lemi Park. These projects bring new attention to the area.

Living in CMC

CMC is mainly residential, with shops and services along the main road. Many streets behind the main road are quiet and lined with walled compounds. The area has a settled feel, because many homes date from earlier decades than those in Ayat or Bole Arabsa.

Local names help you read listings. CMC Michael refers to the area around the St. Michael church. Listings also use names such as CMC Yetebaberut. Meri lies between CMC and Ayat and has its own light rail station. This guide treats Meri as part of the wider CMC area.

The city rebuilt the Megenagna to CMC road under its corridor development project. The prime minister opened the renovated route in August 2024. The works added wider walkways and new public spaces along the road.

CMC sits close to the border of Yeka and Lemi Kura sub-cities. Some addresses near Ayat may fall under Lemi Kura. Check the sub-city and woreda on the title deed.

The convention center and Lemi Park

The Addis International Convention Center (AICC) stands by the CMC roundabout. It is one of the largest event venues in the country and covers about 40 hectares. It hosted the second Africa Climate Summit in 2025. Lemi Park, a large public square and park, lies next to it. These projects bring visitors, hotels and new services to the area. They can also bring road closures during large events.

Property types and prices

CMC offers:

• Villas and G+1 houses on walled compounds
• Apartment blocks from private developers
• Condominium units in nearby sites
• Rooms and service quarters for rent inside compounds

CMC prices usually sit between those of Bole and Ayat. We do not have enough reliable data to give a price range for CMC. Browse current houses for sale and houses for rent to compare.

Getting around

The light rail has several stations in this part of the city: Meri, CMC, St. Michael, Civil Service College and Management Institute. From there trains run west through Gurd Shola and Megenagna to the center. Minibus taxis and buses use the same main road. Roads also link CMC with Summit and Bole Arabsa to the south and east.

Who CMC suits

• Families who want a house on its own compound
• Commuters who want light rail access
• People who work around Megenagna, Ayat or the convention center
• Buyers who want a settled area with lower prices than Bole

Buying or renting in CMC

Visit the property at peak hours. The main road can be busy, and events at the convention center can add traffic. Check water supply and the condition of the access road. For a house purchase, confirm the title deed, the plot size and any planned road works. Read our guide on how to buy a house in Addis Ababa before you sign.