Kazanchis, Addis Ababa

Kazanchis is a central business district in Addis Ababa, in Kirkos sub-city. It lies close to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, many government offices and large hotels. In recent years the city rebuilt much of Kazanchis under its corridor development project. The area now looks very different from a few years ago.

Living in Kazanchis

Kazanchis is mainly a place of work. Offices, hotels, banks and restaurants fill the main streets. Many people who live here work nearby and value a short commute. Evenings are quieter than in Bole, but the area is busy on weekdays.

The corridor project changed Kazanchis more than most areas. The city cleared many older homes and small businesses to build wider roads, public spaces and new buildings. The prime minister praised the transformation of Kazanchis in April 2025. Rights groups and some residents criticized the evictions and the compensation process. The Reporter spoke with a family that moved from a house in Kazanchis to a studio in the Arabsa condominium site.

Because of these changes, older housing in Kazanchis is now limited. New residential and mixed-use buildings are part of the plan for the area. Check the status of any building before you commit.

The new public spaces change daily life. Wide sidewalks, lighting and green areas make walking easier. Cafes and shops are returning to the rebuilt streets. Rents in new buildings reflect the central location and the new look of the area.

Property types and prices

Kazanchis offers:

• Apartments in mixed-use buildings
• Furnished apartments for short and long stays
• Office space and shops
• A small number of older houses outside the cleared areas

Demand for rentals is strong from people who work at the UN, embassies, NGOs and government offices nearby. Prices are high for the city. We do not have enough reliable data to give a price range. Compare current apartments for rent and property for rent.

Getting around

Kazanchis is close to the center of the city. Meskel Square, Stadium and St. Estifanos are a short trip away. St. Estifanos and Stadium are stations on the light rail east-west line. Minibus taxis and buses run on all main roads. The rebuilt corridors make walking easier. Trips to Bole and the airport usually take less time than from the west of the city.

Who Kazanchis suits

• Staff of the UN, embassies, NGOs and government offices
• Professionals who want a short trip to work
• Short-stay visitors who want a central base
• Businesses that need central office space

It suits families who want a garden or a quiet residential street less well. For that, look at Sarbet or Old Airport.

Buying or renting in Kazanchis

Check whether the building lies on a planned corridor or redevelopment site. Ask the landlord or seller for the title deed and any notices from the city. For new buildings, confirm the permit and the completion date. Our guide on renting an apartment in Addis Ababa lists the documents to check.