ANALYZING URBAN GREEN SPACES AVAILABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY IN WERABE TOWN, CENTRAL ETHIOPIA REGION

Abstract Urban green spaces are essential components of urban environments, providing numerous ecological, recreational, and aesthetic benefits to urban dwellers. This study assesses the availability and accessibility of urban green spaces in Werabe Town, Central Ethiopia Region. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research evaluates the current status of green spaces in the study area, to examine the perceptions of urban the dwellers on green spaces, to investigate the focus given to green spaces throughout the preparation of the town's land use plan and to analyze the benefits of urban green spaces for the town’s dwellers. The findings reveal that urban green spaces in Werabe Town are limited, unevenly distributed, and often inaccessible to certain segments of the population, particularly low-income residents and people with disabilities. The study identifies several factors contributing to these limitations, including rapid urbanization, inadequate urban planning, and lack of community engagement. The research concludes by recommending strategies for improving the availability and accessibility of urban green spaces in Werabe Town, including the development of green infrastructure, community-led urban planning, and inclusive urban design. The study's findings have implications for urban planning and policy-making in Werabe Town and other urban centers in Ethiopia, highlighting the need for sustainable and equitable urban green space management practices.