The Practices of an Integrated Infrastructure Planning in Ethiopian Metropolitan Cities, the Case of Addis Ababa and Sheger Cities

Integrated infrastructure planning between two cities is a coordinated approach that aligns infrastructure systems such as transportation networks, waste management, water supply, and digital connectivity across municipal boundaries. This type of regional planning creates synergy between neighboring cities, helping achieve broader economic, environmental, and social objectives. In particular, it emphasizes improved connectivity, resource sharing, and resilience, all of which support regional growth, reduce redundancies, and ensure that infrastructure systems work efficiently for both cities. On the other hand, disjointed approaches to infrastructure development could lead to unsustainable urban sprawl, traffic jams, poor public service delivery, environmental degradation, inefficiencies, and inequality. The study used a mixed-methods approach, using convenience sampling techniques and collected data through questionnaires, surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions, which was analyzed using Microsoft Excel, ArcGIS, and SPSS. The study examines infrastructure systems and planning practices in Addis Ababa and Sheger, focusing on efficiency improvements in sewerage and drainage management, waste management, and transportation networks. It also analyzes challenges and provides recommendations for effective inter-city coordination.