Ethiopia Institute of Technology- Mekelle

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A Deep Learning Approach for the Detection and Prediction of Tuberculosis Using Chest X-Ray Imaging
(Mekelle University, 2025-12-22) BIREY GIRMAY
Tuberculosis (TB) is a major global health concern, particularly in resource-limited settings where diagnosis in the initial phase is crucial but limited by limited radiologists and diagnostic centers. This study develops an artificial intelligence-based model for early diagnosis and prediction of TB by chest radiography using a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and CNN-Long Short-Term Memory (CNN-LSTM) hybrid model for binary classification (TB-positive or TB-negative). A 10,000 chest X-ray image dataset, comprising 4,000 images from Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia, and 6,000 images from Kaggle, was preprocessed, augmented, and split into 80% for training and 20% for testing. Expert annotations ensured firm ground truth. The CNN model worked with 86% accuracy, with precision, recall, and F1-score of 0.86, while CNNLSTM achieved 85%, both running smoothly on quite modest hardware. The CNN functioned slightly better than the hybrid model, depicting superior discriminative capacity. The machine learning technique offers an inexpensive, scalable way to enhance early TB diagnosis and forecasting in high-burden, low-resource environments, reducing the diagnostic delay and supporting medical staff in nations like Ethiopia.
An Assessment of Climate Smart Agricultural Practices and Adaptation Strategies in Mekelle City, Ethiopia
(Mekelle University, 2025-11-13) Fikre Sibhat
Urban agriculture is increasingly recognized as a viable climate adaptation and livelihood strategy in rapidly urbanizing environments, particularly in the context of developing countries facing food insecurity, land scarcity, and environmental stress. Climate change is one of humanity’s biggest problems. Climate smart urban agriculture offers an once-in-a-lifetime chance to adapt to global. UA can improve food security by providing affordable, nutritious alternatives to commercially produced food, especially for economically disadvantaged people. In Ethiopia, cities like Mekelle are experiencing fast urban expansion, often at the expense of productive urban and peri-urban agricultural lands. This study aimed to assess the adoption, contributions, and challenges of Climate-Smart Urban Agriculture (CSUA) practices among urban and peri-urban households in Mekelle City, in light of climate change adaptation and sustainable urban development. A mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating quantitative surveys, logistic regression modeling, and land use/land cover (LULC) analysis based on Landsat imagery from 1984, 2004, and 2025. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including ANOVA and post hoc tests, were used to evaluate socio-economic patterns, and adoption behaviors. A total of 177 randomly chosen urban agricultural households were surveyed using structured questionnaires. The findings reveal significant income inequality, with average household income at 202,725 ETB but with high variance, suggesting unequal access to resources. The average farmland size was 0.78 hectares, with nearly all land under cultivation. LULC analysis indicated that built-up areas expanded sixteen-fold over the study period, reducing agricultural land by 38%. Despite these spatial pressures, urban agriculture contributed positively to food security, employment, poverty reduction, and self-reliance. However, farmers faced critical challenges including lack of access to land, credit, inputs, infrastructure, and institutional support. Logistic regression identified several key CSUA adoption measures with significant influence some positively and others negatively highlighting the complexity of behavioral and contextual drivers. These findings underscore the vital but vulnerable role of CSUA in urban resilience and economic inclusion. They also point to the need for integrated land use planning, improved institutional support, and context-specific interventions to sustain urban farming. Strengthening CSUA adoption not only enhances urban food systems but also supports climate adaptation, social stability, and equitable urban development in post-conflict settings like Mekelle.
An Assessment of Integration Levels and Implementation Challenges in Smart City Development: The Case of Mekelle City, Ethiopia.
(Mekelle University, 2025-06-20) Zemichael Hailemariam Gebrihet
The aspiration to develop smart cities is seen globally as a strategic solution to urbanization challenges, aiming to improve infrastructure and enhance the quality of life. In developing countries, the potential for smart cities is high, but significant challenges hinder successful implementation. Smart, sustainable city development in developing countries is not as closely studied as it has been in developed countries. Furthermore, academic studies about smart sustainable city development preparedness have been applied largely to the narrow context of developed countries. This study is an effort to help fill that gap. This study focuses on Mekelle City as a case study to assess the extent of smart city development, the integration and implementation challenges faced, and assessment to overcome these challenges. The research adopts a multi-method approach, including a comprehensive literature review, surveys and interviews with key informants, and field observations. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted using tools like SPSS, supported by materials such as questionnaires, interview guides, and access to relevant documentation in Mekelle. The findings aim to provide valuable insights into overcoming the barriers that developing countries face in their efforts to build sustainable, livable smart cities. The study identifies several key challenges: limited financial resources, deficiency of coordination and externalities, governance inefficiencies or lack of public-private partnerships, lack of smart city operational framework, lack of system integration and sustainable focused strategies, and a lack of integration between technology and urban planning. To address these issues, strategic solutions are proposed, including raising revenues and diversifying financing sources for smart city development, stepping up the effort to fulfil basic infrastructure needs, constructing regulatory frameworks for smart city governance, creating a supportive ecosystem that nurtures start-ups and strengthening public private partnerships, promoting public-private partnerships, and improving policy frameworks. The study concludes that, while Mekelle faces significant hurdles, it has the potential to achieve sustainable smart city development. By implementing socioeconomic, human, legal, and regulatory reforms and focusing on innovation, capacity building, and governance, Mekelle can serve as a model for smart city development in developing regions, particularly in the Tigray region.
An assessment of land grabbing; cause and consequence: the case of Mekelle city
(Mekelle University, 2025-12-19) TEDROS FUFA
Land grabbing have significant social, economic, and environmental effect on both urban and rural areas. Therefore, this study is carried out to record the land grabbing magnitude, identify its cause and consequences by using observation, interview and preparing questioner as method of primary data collection and collecting different secondary data from governmental and nongovernmental institutions and then using both qualitative and quantitative data analysis method, using sample sizes, which lead to findings that are more generalizable to a broader population. Based on the analysis The land grabbed from 2007 E.C. up to 2012 E.C. is found to be 49.86 hectare which account 0.15% area of Mekelle city; and also from 2013 E.C. up to 2017 E.C. a total area of 245.01-hectare land is illegally grabbed, which account for 0.76% area of Mekelle city and this indicating a notable increase. When we observe the last 5 years’ land grabbing magnitude it directly shows direct effect of the war which open door to illegal land grabbing. Totally from 2007 E.C. up to 2017 E.C. a total of 294.87-hectare land which account to 0.91% of Mekelle’s land is illegally grabbed. This alarmingly increase of land grabbing will significantly impact social, culture and economy of society and also affect the structural and urban design, hinder planned development of Mekelle city. The finding of this study demonstrates that the land grabbing of Mekelle city due to weak governance, corruption, legal loopholes, unfair policy and economic interests. Therefore, policy makers and other related sectors should work in strengthen legal and institutional framework, providing a policy that protect land rights, promote equitable urban development and ensure sustainable resource use.
An Assessment of Neighborhood Residents’ Satisfaction with Urban Livability and Its Determinants in Mekelle City, Northern Ethiopia
(Mekelle University, 2025-12-21) Kibrom Tsegay
The increasing rate of urbanization and its impact on urban and regional settings are a major concern for Ethiopian cities. Urban livability is a multidimensional concept influenced by economic vitality, environmental quality, infrastructure, housing, and social cohesion. assessments of livability to inform equitable recovery and urban planning. The study aimed to assess neighborhood residents’ satisfaction with urban livability in selected sub-cities of Mekelle, Ethiopia. A mixed-methods approach was employed using structured questionnaires administered to 384 household respondents. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, ANOVA, and multiple linear regressions. The study measured satisfaction across seven urban livability dimensions: economic vitality, environmental sustainability, socio-cultural amenities, public facilities, transportation, security, and housing. Findings revealed moderate satisfaction in most domains, with economic vitality (M = 2.98) and housing (M = 3.14) scoring relatively well. Environmental sustainability (M = 2.53) and urban security (M = 2.29) received the lowest satisfaction ratings, signaling significant concern. Regression analysis showed that economic vitality (β = 0.385, p < 0.001) and transportation infrastructure (β = 0.311, p < 0.001) had the strongest influence on overall satisfaction. Sociocultural cohesion and access to public facilities were also significant predictors. Age group, education level, marital status, income, and family size were statistically associated with satisfaction levels (p < 0.001). Residents aged 46–55 reported the highest satisfaction across most variables, likely reflecting better economic integration and housing access. The study underscores the importance of integrated urban planning, particularly in addressing environmental degradation, safety, and inclusive service provision in post-conflict settings. Policymakers should prioritize economic development, improve housing affordability, and strengthen environmental and security frameworks to enhance urban resilience and resident well-being in Mekelle.
An Assessment of Street Addressing and House numbering The case of Mekelle-Kedamay weyane sub city
(Mekelle University, 2025-10-18) Firdawek Meresa
This study evaluates the existing state of street addressing and house numbering system in the Central Business District (CBD) in Mekelle City, specifically in the Kedamay Weyane Sub-City, and its significance in enhancing the management, governance, and delivery of services in the district. The study used a mixed-methods research technique that combines both qualitative and quantitative methods, such as surveys, observations, and analysis. The study used interviews, observations, and analysis, while the house numbering system was analyzed using surveys, geo-spatial analysis, and combination analysis. The study has identified several important shortcomings, including lack of standardization, absence of house number labeling, low level of participation, failures in human, physical, and digital representation, that cause limitations to the operation of the urban system, leading to confusion among citizens and visitors, poor delivery of emergency services, postal, and utility services, and lack of coordination in collecting revenues and urban planning. Moreover, it has also identified that Mekelle’s CBD has experienced tremendous growth, informal growth, and overlapping street names that contribute to low efficiency in institutional operations and increasing costs in operations for businesses. To improve upon the identified shortcomings, the study recommended the construction of an effective and coherent pattern in house addressing that is well-supported by a comprehensive house number labeling system, enhancing participation for guaranteeing its continuation, enhancing the physical representation for better recognition, and enhancing the digital cartographic system for better geographical and geo-spatial analysis representation for better integration, analysis, and spatial analysis for improved geographical and geo-spatial representation analysis. Moreover, the study also emphasizes strengthening and enhancing the institutional requirements, enhancing collaboration and partnership, and ensuring collaboration for enhancing improved operations, performance, and governance improvements for better operating, governance, and geographical, geo-spatial analysis, and adaptation analysis in Mekelle’s Central Business District.
An Evaluation into the Performance of Standard Unit Rates Estimation Practices in Public Constructions: in the Case of Tigray, Ethiopia
(Mekelle University, 2025-12-11) Atsede Tekle Berhe
It is essential to understand the financial feasibility of construction projects in a market that is characterized by significant fluctuations. Project success depends on accurate cost estimation, however in Tigray, the least bidder system and differences between the Bureau's Standard Unit Rates and actual market pricing have resulted in cost overruns and delays in public building projects. Furthermore, a major issue identified above 80% the executed projects were under the estimated cost, indicating an overestimation. This paper examines the performance of SURs estimate in Tigray public construction projects and suggests ways to improve. An evaluation of 30 finished projects, interviews, and standardized 45 out of 65 questionnaires were used. The data were interpreted with the help of qualitative insights, and Paired T test, Multiple Regression, Correlation, and Variance analysis were conducted using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 27. The results showed that, on average, published SUR were 3.43% (24.59 ETB per unit) higher than BUR. Even yet, early Engineering Estimates were 17.9% higher than bid values, showing overestimation, and actual project costs were 11.9% less than the engineering estimation. Project completion timelines also went 83.6% beyond schedule, resulting in significant time overruns. There was a correlation of SUR and BUR, r = 0.728 and according to the Regression analysis, the cost assumptions accounted for R² = 0.975, p < 0.01, of the cost variations; contract price was the most significant. Above 56% of the respondents indicated the SURs estimation are incorrect and around 65% -80% of those surveyed agreed that SUR error was a direct cause of delay, cost overrun and lower quality. Based on the findings, it is suggested updating SUR methodology, updating productivity, changing way of procurement is conducted, and enhancing stakeholders’ cooperation imply improving contractors’ performance, and feasibility of the projects, in the Tigray construction industry. Projects, Standard Unit Rate
An Evaluation of structural Plan spatial Implementation in Abiy-Adi town, Tigray, Ethiopia
(Mekelle University, 2025-06-22) Masho Gebremichael
The research is intended to investigate the Challenges of structural Plan Implementation in the case of Abiy-Adi town, Tigray region and how it has been performing in relation to the performance criteria's such as, economic efficiency, environment, social equity .The formation and performance of urban structures are central issues in urban design and planning. The research is significant because it provides facts and figures on the Challenges of structural Plan Implementation in the case of Abiy-Adi town and its impact the current development trend on the performance of urban spatial structures (land use pattern) related to socio- economic, environmental and administrative issues of the town. A case study method was used for the investigation. Study cases which were established in different periods were taken and investigated against data methods. In addition the research attempts to find out how the land-use pattern of the town, like the commercial centers (the CBD), the residential, industrial areas, and the road structure existed. The study begins by collecting and identifying the challenges of the structure plan implementation of the town in its legal duration of the plan from the recent consecutives duration of the plan (2009-2019).As a result the study has found that lack of professional skills, lack of clear rules and regulations, lack of budget and materials, corruption and political intervention are among the major challenges of structural plan implementation in the town. Therefore, attention needs on monitoring the performance of plans implementation, follow up, land bank and land use change permeation from the town council must practiced
ANALYSIS & DESIGN OF STEEL WIND TURBINE TOWER UNDER COMBINED EFFECT OF WIND LOAD AND EARTHQUAKE
(Mekelle University, 2020-08-09) Negassi G/kidan
Artificial Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) Based Speed Control of Separately Excited DC Motor for Load Torque Variations
(Mekelle University, 2025-09-09) Kibrom Zerau
Separately excited direct Motor (SEDCM) is an electromechanical actuator used to power different loads across several industrial and domestic applications. One fundamental characteristic for controlling when driving is the motor's speed. The external load linked to the drive negatively impacts speed if the controller is weak and the load varies. Objective of this thesis work is to design an Artificial Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS)-based speed control mechanism for a separately excited DC motor under varying load torque conditions. The ANFIS controller integrates neural networks and fuzzy logic to improve motor speed regulation, ensuring robust performance despite disturbances in load torque. Additionally, this this work explores the effectiveness of armature voltage control (source voltage adjustment) for dynamically regulating motor speed, comparing its performance with conventional control strategies. ANFIS, fuzzy logic controllers, PID controllers, and open loop (without controller) have all been used to measure the speed of an independently stimulated SEDC motor. At first, the motor speed can be regulated and modified by changing the armature voltage (the input supply voltage).When the torque of the load grows and the transient and steady state faults rise, the motor's speed falls in the absence of a controller. The motor performs poorly as a result, and its speed will not maintain its rated level. A PID controller improves the motor's speed over an open loop, but the overall performance is still poor and there are still some transient and steady state issues. Although fuzzy logic controllers perform better than PID controllers in terms of system performance, the speed still fluctuates as the torque of the load changes. However, ANFIS better than fuzzy, PID, and open loop control systems, operates at its rated speed, has low steady state and transient errors, and keeps the motor's speed constant as the load increases. In conclusion, NFIS is superior to fuzzy and PID controllers due to its zero overshoot and reduced 38.31% settling time compared to fuzzy and 50.93 % compared to PID, reduced 37.12% rise time compared to fuzzy and 44.87 % compared to PID, and reduced 85% steady-state error compared to fuzzy and 98.5 % compared to PID. Additionally, by resolving the motor's nonlinear properties, the system's overall performance will improve.
ASSESSING FERTILE LAND EXPROPRIATION IN PERI-URBAN AREAS: THE STUDY OF ADIGRAT TOWN, TIGRAY REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA
(Mekelle University, 2025-12-18) ARAYA GEBREANENYA NIREA
This study examines the primary drivers of land expropriation in Adigrat Town, identifying infrastructure development as the leading cause (45.45%), followed closely by the establishment of educational and healthcare facilities. The legal framework governing these expropriations is rooted in the land regulation system, which accounts for 60.38% of the authority exercised. Although land is predominantly expropriated for commercial, administrative, and infrastructural purposes, the process is often characterized by arbitrariness (35%). Compensation is provided in only 30% of cases, and 43.3% of respondents perceive it as unjust. Property value assessments largely focus on current productivity (36.36%), and while affected individuals are typically notified six months in advance (65%), the compensation usually fails to cover the associated social, environmental, and economic costs (40%). The consequences are substantial, including the loss of rural farmland (63.63%), decreased agricultural productivity, unsustainable urban growth, and high unemployment rates among displaced farmers (each approximately 61.8%). Following expropriation, a staggering 71.81% of affected individuals experience unemployment, while only 12.2% become self-employed. Although 49.39% relocate within the area, a substantial portion (25.15%) move to other parts of the town. Initial reactions are predominantly negative, with 32.12% expressing strong frustration. This research underscores the urgent need for reforms in the expropriation process to ensure fair compensation and sustainable development practices that protect agricultural livelihoods and promote community welfare.
Assessing the Impact of Improper Sidewalks on Pedestrian Safety and Level of Service in Mekelle City
(Mekelle University, 2025-07-22) Kibrom Weldu
Pedestrian safety is a vital yet often neglected aspect of urban development in rapidly growing cities like Mekelle, Ethiopia. This study examines how improper sidewalk conditions, such as narrow, obstructed, and poorly maintained paths affect pedestrian safety and the Pedestrian Level of Service. A mixed-methods approach was used to comprehensively assess pedestrian conditions in Mekelle City. Quantitative data collection involved measuring sidewalk widths, counting pedestrians, and conducting structured surveys to evaluate safety, usability, and infrastructure quality. Physical assessments also identified common obstructions like vendors, utility poles, and parked vehicles. PLOS was evaluated using the Highway Capacity Manual, considering factors such as surface condition, lighting, and crossing points. Complementing this, qualitative data were gathered through field observations and open-ended survey responses to capture pedestrian experiences, perceptions of safety, and challenges such as poor lighting, unmarked crossings, and obstructed walkways, especially during nighttime travel. The findings show that most sidewalks are narrower than the recommended 1.2 meters and often obstructed by vendors, poles, or construction materials, making them unsafe. PLOS ratings ranged from C to E, indicating poor walking conditions. Over half of respondents felt unsafe, mainly due to poor lighting, inadequate crossings, and lack of maintenance. This study concludes that Mekelle's pedestrian infrastructure significantly hinders walkability and compromises safety. Recommendations include adopting international design standards, enforcing clear regulations to prevent sidewalk encroachment, and incorporating inclusive urban design principles in future planning. These insights provide essential guidance for urban planners and policymakers aiming to create safer, more accessible pedestrian environments in Mekelle and similar urban contexts.
Assessment and Design of Suitable Flood protection work at the Downstream of Gereb Burka River, Southern Tigray
(Mekelle University, 2025-09-05) TESFAY HAILU
Flooding along the downstream section of the Gereb Burka River in Southern Tigray's Raya Azebo Wereda near Mekoni city poses significant risks to communities and infrastructure. This study proposes flood defense measures to mitigate these hazards through gabion structural interventions. Hydrological analysis was conducted using rainfall data from the Maichew meteorological station (1993–2019), applying methods for missing data estimation, adequacy testing, and outlier detection. The Soil Conservation Service Curve Number (SCS-CN) method was employed to estimate runoff, considering land use/land cover and hydrologic soil groups (CN = 86 for AMC III). Peak discharge was calculated as 234.5 m³/s for a 25-year return period, with a probable maximum rainfall of 80 mm derived from log-normal distribution analysis. Gabion structures were identified as the most suitable flood defense mechanism due to their cost effectiveness, adaptability, and compatibility with the erosion-prone, semi-arid conditions of the region. A detailed stability analysis confirmed the structural integrity of the proposed gabion design, with factors of safety against overturning (>4.1), sliding (>1.6), and bearing capacity failure (>7.6) meeting engineering standards. The design includes a 2.2 m-high gabion wall with a 73 m waterway width. This research provides a practical solution for flood mitigation in the study area and serves as a reference for similar projects. Recommendations emphasize regular maintenance of flood defenses, community awareness programs, watershed reforestation, and further studies on sediment management to enhance long-term resilience. The project underscores the importance of integrating hydrological and geotechnical analyses in flood protection planning.
Assessment and evaluation of hydraulic parameters in Raya irrigation pumping wells
(Mekelle University, 2025-09-05) Samiel Gigar
The Raya well field located in the northern part of Ethiopia, southern part of Tigray region and have raised concerns with respect to the ability of the aquifer system to sustain production. As the aquifer of Raya well field in particular is heavily used in this area, understanding the hydraulic parameters of the area is essential for efficient sustainable management of the groundwater resource. An overview of the hydraulic parameters estimated for the 22 pumping irrigation wells in the study clearly show strong evidence of inappropriate estimation. Thus, this study was conducted to identify the possible miss-interpretation of the observed time-drawdown, step drawdown, time residual drawdown-based hydraulic parameter estimation. After data quality checking, appropriate data correction for partial penetration, well loss and unconfined aquifer were conducted. Then the standard methods like Theis curve fitting, Cooper-Jacob methods for time drawdown data & Theis recovery method for time-residual drawdown data were used for parameter estimation. Beside Aquifertest v8.0 software was also used to verify the results of the original study. Evaluation and analysis result showed that out of the 22 well analyzed, 15 transmissivity values used in the well yield estimate were overestimated (0.22 up to 29.23 percent) and 6 underestimated (0.26 up to 1700.72 percent) the other one well has not stated transmissivity value, such highly overestimated transmissivity value misleads the designers & operators in fixing the well yield, 15-25% cost overrun, Poor water supply reliability, planning inequity and trust erosion with the client or society and reduce the life span of the pumping wells by 26-62 percent. Additionally, from 22 pumping wells 18 or 81.81 percent out of the total sample wells have not efficiency stated in the design documents. The minimum efficiency of irrigation wells should be 60%, considering this minimum irrigation wells efficiency limit 3 pumping wells have efficiency greater than 60 percent this is around 13.63 percent the others 19 pumping wells have less than 60 percent efficiency, this is around 86.36 percent. The storativity of unconfined aquifer is 0.1-0.3 and the storativity of confined aquifer is 0.005-0.00005. data from Tigray office of water resources and energy shown that the storativity of the 13 wells are far away from the range whereas 2 wells are slightly out of the range. The rest 7 wells have not storativity stated in the document. results from this research computations shown that the storativity of the 14 wells are far away from the range, whereas 7 wells are slightly out of the range. The rest 1 well falls within the range or accepted. the reason behind this large error in storativity value is the wells are only pumping or production wells, for accurate and precise storativity computation an observation well is very mandatory. The recommendation for the less efficiency is to Reduce the pumping rate or Optimize Pumping Operation. Results also shown that most of the irrigation pumping wells fall on the category of class of transmissivity magnitude “II” and fall on the “high” designation of transmissivity magnitude. a well pumped for 18 hours per day and for 120 days in a year it can lead to cumulative land subsidence from 0.009 meter or 9 mm up to 0.056 or 56 mm per year. Therefore, in this evaluation it is recommended to conduct multiple well test to determine the actual hydraulic parameters of the aquifer in order to obtain the safe yield of the wells which is intended to prolong the productivity of the aquifer and to delay excessive loss of saturated thickness.
Assessment of Employee Localization Practice in Foreign- Contracted Road Projects in Ethiopia: A Case Study of the Hamusit – Estie Asphalt Road Project
(Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Yan Dan
This study assesses employee localization practices in Foreign-contracted road projects in Ethiopia, with a focus on the Hamusit–Estie Asphalt Road Project. Localization the gradual substitution of expatriate staff with competent local professionals is widely recognized as apathway toward sustainable infrastructure development, cost efficiency, and knowledge transfer. Although foreign contractors in Ethiopia employ a large proportion of local workers, especially in operational and support roles, managerial and senior technical positions remain largely Expatriate-held. Recent restrictions on work permits and identification cards have compelled contractors to hire more local employees; however, deeper functional localization remains constrained. Data collected through questionnaires and interviews with local staff, expatriates, and HR managers reveal that language barriers, differing management systems, loyalty and trust concerns, cultural gaps, and limited technical experience are the key obstacles preventing Ethiopians from assuming higher-responsibility positions. The study further identifies that overreliance on expatriates increases project costs through higher remuneration packages and weakens efficiency due to communication and coordination challenges. While Ethiopia’s government promotes localization, enforcement mechanisms are insufficient, and implementation varies widely among contractors. Findings emphasize that numerical localization alone does not guarantee capability transfer. Achieving meaningful progress requires structured training programs, bilingual communication systems, transparent promotion pathways, and stronger policy enforcement that aligns incentives for both contractors and local professionals. The study concludes that under Ethiopia’s current context, a phased and collaborative localization strategy balancing immediate operational realities with long-term capacity building is the most practical route toward sustainable and inclusive project delivery.
Assessment of Heritage Conservation Practices and its Challenges The Case of Agulae Town
(Mekelle University, 2025-11-13) Kibrom Meles
This study is designed to investigate the practice and challenges of heritage conservation in the study town. The conservation system in the study town is poor i.e. It does not have adequate attention, awareness and coordination from stockholders and it lacks proper maintenance to keep its originality. The study used a cross-sectional descriptive and explanatory research design using a mixed research approach. The study used a variety of data collection methods, such as focus group, interviews, and observation. Systematic random sampling was used to select participant from target population and using purposive sampling key informants from various organizations were selected. The actual and valid sample size of the study is 130 household residing the entire study town. The findings of the study revealed that the heritage sites found in Agulae town are not safeguarded from being damaged and found in a poor status specially Dejat Gebreslase residential building. Through document review of plan document and interview with relevant stockholders, this paper evaluates the impact of urban planning initiatives on heritage conservation. The findings highlights the importance of holistic approach to urban planning that integrates heritage conservation, infrastructure enhancement and land use harmonization. The major conclusion sketched from the study is that the main factors affecting heritage conservation are lack of stakeholder involvement and coordination, poor government concern and professional commitment, vandalism and lack of funds. The study implied that the sustainability of heritage in the study area endanger unless conservation practice is supported by conservation guidelines, heritage site management plans, stakeholders integration and community involvement. The researcher tried to recommend that the heritage sites need to get better protection and care. They need to be relieved of their problems and threats, so stakeholders should play their roles in an organized and integrated manner, unless otherwise it will become difficult.
Assessment of Public Building Construction Delays and Their Impact on Project Success in Mekelle, Tigray
(Mekelle University, 2025-11-02) Solomon Zeferu
This research project, titled “Assessing Public Building Construction Delays and Their Impact on Project Success in Mekelle, Tigray,” investigates the persistent problem of delays in public construction projects and their overall influence on project performance. The study focuses on identifying the primary causes of delay, assessing their effects on time, cost, and quality, and proposing strategies to mitigate their impact on future projects. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were gathered from 50 respondents representing contractors, consultants, and clients engaged in public building projects in Mekelle. Structured questionnaires were used, and the collected data were analyzed using the Relative Importance Index (RII) to rank the most significant delay factors. The study findings revealed that delays remain a critical issue in the construction industry, with most public projects exceeding their planned completion schedules and budgets. The leading causes of delay were found to be delay in progress payments, ineffective planning and scheduling, shortage of skilled labor, late material delivery and price escalation, and slow decision-making among project stakeholders. The key effects of these delays include cost overruns, time overruns, low quality of work, contract disputes, and project termination. The research concludes that improving project performance requires addressing financial and managerial inefficiencies, enhancing communication between stakeholders, and enforcing timely decision-making. It recommends that clients ensure consistent payment flows, contractors strengthen project management capabilities, and consultants improve supervision and coordination mechanisms. Furthermore, policymakers should implement delay mitigation frameworks and capacity-building programs within the construction sector. By addressing these issues, construction projects in Mekelle can achieve improved time efficiency, cost control, and overall project success, ultimately contributing to the effective utilization of public resources.
Assessment of Public Building Construction Delays and Their Impact on Project Success in Mekelle, Tigray
(Mekelle University, 2025-11-02) Solomon Zeferu
This research project, titled “Assessing Public Building Construction Delays and Their Impact on Project Success in Mekelle, Tigray,” investigates the persistent problem of delays in public construction projects and their overall influence on project performance. The study focuses on identifying the primary causes of delay, assessing their effects on time, cost, and quality, and proposing strategies to mitigate their impact on future projects. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were gathered from 50 respondents representing contractors, consultants, and clients engaged in public building projects in Mekelle. Structured questionnaires were used, and the collected data were analyzed using the Relative Importance Index (RII) to rank the most significant delay factors. The study findings revealed that delays remain a critical issue in the construction industry, with most public projects exceeding their planned completion schedules and budgets. The leading causes of delay were found to be delay in progress payments, ineffective planning and scheduling, shortage of skilled labor, late material delivery and price escalation, and slow decision-making among project stakeholders. The key effects of these delays include cost overruns, time overruns, low quality of work, contract disputes, and project termination. The research concludes that improving project performance requires addressing financial and managerial inefficiencies, enhancing communication between stakeholders, and enforcing timely decision-making. It recommends that clients ensure consistent payment flows, contractors strengthen project management capabilities, and consultants improve supervision and coordination mechanisms. Furthermore, policymakers should implement delay mitigation frameworks and capacity-building programs within the construction sector. By addressing these issues, construction projects in Mekelle can achieve improved time efficiency, cost control, and overall project success, ultimately contributing to the effective utilization of public resources.
Assessment of the Performance and Challenges of Public Procurement of Works in Semera, Afar National Regional State
(Mekelle University, 2025-09-25) Ali Amin Ibrahim
Public procurement is a pivotal mechanism linking project aspirations to the delivery of quality infrastructure. In Semera, Afar National Regional State, despite substantial investment in public works, procurement outcomes have often fallen short of expectations. This study assessed thirty public works projects implemented between 2018 and 2023, revealing systemic inefficiencies, delays, and quality shortfalls. Only 58% of projects complied with national procurement guidelines, procurement cycles averaged 6.5 months, and cost overruns affected 40% of projects, with an average escalation of 18% above contract values. Time and quality performance were also suboptimal, with less than half of projects completed on schedule and only 60% meeting technical standards. The analysis identified several institutional and market-related challenges undermining procurement performance. Capacity constraints were significant, with 72% of procurement staff lacking formal training and high turnover reducing continuity. Planning weaknesses were widespread, as 65% of procurement plans were delayed or incomplete, often without adequate market analysis. Transparency and accountability were insufficient: only half of tenders were openly advertised and nearly a third lacked complete bid evaluation reports. Market limitations further constrained performance, with an average of only three bidders per tender and contractor capacity often insufficient, resulting in project suspensions or abandonment. The consequences of these challenges were evident in persistent cost overruns, project delays, and compromised quality, particularly in essential infrastructure such as schools, roads, and health centers. Stakeholder confidence in procurement was low, with 68% rating performance as ineffective. These systemic weaknesses reduce the value for money and delay the delivery of public services, highlighting the urgent need for institutional reforms and operational improvements in public procurement practices in Semera. To address these gaps, the study recommends capacity building, improved planning, enhanced transparency, stronger oversight and accountability, and support for local contractors. Implementing these reforms will enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality in public works, promoting sustainable economic development in Afar.
AUTOMATED SELENIUM TESTING FOR THE QUALITY ASSURANCE OF MEKELLE UNIVERSITY WEB SITE
(Mekelle University, 2026-01-28) Berihu Gidey Gebremeskel
Websites serve as critical platforms for administrative, academic, and communication functions in higher education institutions. However, many institutional websites in Ethiopia, including that of Mekelle University, face persistent challenges such as outdated content, inconsistent navigation, broken links, and poor mobile responsiveness. Manual quality assurance is labor intensive, error prone, and insufficient to ensure consistent performance across diverse devices and user interactions. To address these limitations, this study develops an automated testing framework using Python and Selenium WebDriver to systematically evaluate the functionality, usability, responsiveness, and content accuracy of the Mekelle University website. The design and execution of nine test cases (TC001–TC009) addressed navigation, form validation, authentication, content verification, responsive design, homepage content verification, and link validation. The results show that the navigational components (TC001–TC003) are generally reliable and offer consistent access to the main sections of the website. However, the failure of form validation testing (TC004) revealed a significant flaw in data entry operations. This failure resulted from a combination of automation-related problems, such as uneven HTML structure and unstable element locators, and website-side issues, such as missing elements and unresponsive buttons. This mixed outcome demonstrates that while Selenium works effectively with well-structured underlying web components, interacting with poorly developed or dynamically loaded form elements reduces its ease of use. Content verification (TC006) exposed discrepancies in page titles and footer components, while authentication testing (TC005) confirmed that the website currently lacks a login feature for authenticated access. Homepage content verification (TC008) further identified accessibility issues, particularly the absence of a working mobile navigation menu. Responsive design testing (TC007) showed generally acceptable behavior across devices, and link validation testing (TC009) revealed that 5 out of 53 hyperlinks failed (9.4%), indicating broken links that undermine reliability and user trust. Overall, the study demonstrates that Selenium-based automated testing is effective in detecting usability issues, content inconsistencies, and functional flaws across large portions of the website. At the same time, the mixed results from TC004 highlight an important limitation: Selenium’s accuracy and ease of use depend heavily on the quality and consistency of a website’s underlying HTML structure. Thus, the findings emphasize both the value of automated testing and the need for improved web development standards and continuous quality assurance practices to enhance the reliability, accessibility, and overall user experience of Ethiopian higher education websites.