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A Generation Too Busy to Belong

In rapidly expanding cities, the "helping culture" is being reshaped by urbanisation. As people move between neighbourhoods for cheaper rent or education, communities become temporary, and long-term ties become harder to establish. Researchers note that rapid urban growth can weaken traditional social bonds, moving societies toward a more individualistic and transient state. Apartment buildings are often filled with strangers who exchange greetings but little else. This pattern, well-documented in countries such as Japan, is becoming evident in Ethiopia’s urban centres. The old familiarity in which everyone knew one another's families is being replaced by a culture of isolation and overwork., Writes Blen Hailu (blenmahi12@gmail.com) studied marketing, management and law. She works in communications and digital content creation, with a focus on human rights, equity and youth engagement.

May 16 , 2026
By Blen Hailu ( Blen Hailu (blenmahi12@gmail.com) studied marketing, management and law. She works in communications and digital content creation, with a focus on human rights, equity and youth engagement. )

A Generation Too Busy to Belong

Growing up, I waited for weekends with unusual excitement. A visit to my grandmother's house was not a mere visit. It wa...

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