Addis Ababa Housing Development and Administration Bureau (AAHDAB) has announced that homeowners of condominiums will face lease termination if they do not occupy their units by November 9, 2024. However, many owners are unable to move in due to inadequate infrastructure.

The AAHDAB reported that over 7,000 40/60 condominiums located in Lemi Kura Sub-city, Woreda 03 Bole Ayat 2, have been handed over to beneficiaries for six years, yet residents have not been able to take up residence. The lack of essential infrastructure has left many homeowners frustrated and unable to access their new properties.

One homeowner, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed their concerns: “We can’t move into our homes because the basic infrastructure is not in place.” Residents highlighted several critical issues, including unfinished internal roads, lack of water and electricity supply, and inadequate drainage systems.

Another source voiced disappointment over the AAHDAB’s ultimatum to enter the condominiums by the November deadline without addressing these fundamental requirements. Reports indicate that more than 1,800 units lack doors and aluminum windows. Additionally, many of the buildings are up to 15 stories high but do not have elevators or functional networks.

In a notice issued on September 30, 2024, the AAHDAB warned that unoccupied condominiums could become security risks due to illegal activities. The bureau stated that contracts would be terminated if homeowners do not occupy their units by the specified date. Those who fail to comply may have their properties reassigned through a lottery system.

The situation has raised concerns among homeowners about the future of their investments and living conditions. Many are urging authorities to prioritize infrastructure development to ensure that they can safely and comfortably inhabit their homes. As the deadline approaches, residents continue to seek solutions to these pressing challenges.