Dashen Bank’s headquarters on Sudan Street, just a short walk from the Ethiopian National Theatre and the National Bank, has quietly added an unexpected feature to its streetscape, a row of neatly placed seats serving as a shoe-shining stop. The modest stall blends into the architecture of the Bank’s grand new building, offering a practical pause for passers-by, clients rushing to meetings, and employees on their way in. Polished leather now comes as easily as polished transactions. The idea has drawn curious glances. Banks are known for balancing books and counting cash, not buffing shoes.

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