Addis Ababa: The government has made relentless efforts to leverage the tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth and building the image of the country, Minister of Government Communication Service (GCS) Legesse Tulu said. In his briefings to the media on current affairs, Legesse emphasized that the expansion of tourist destinations and infrastructure development have resulted in the influx of foreign visitors to the country, stimulating the overall economic development of the country.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the minister highlighted that countries heavily reliant on agriculture and natural resources often turn to tourism to bolster the overall economy of the country. Ethiopia, endowed with rich cultural, religious, historical, and natural attractions, possesses immense tourism potential. However, due to infrastructure limitations and inadequate policies, this potential remained untapped until recently, the minister emphasized.
Having recognized this untapped wealth for a long time with
regrets, the reformist government has prioritized tourism as one of the five pillars of its development strategy, he noted, adding that by implementing appropriate policies and investing in the development of new tourist destinations and infrastructure, the government has stimulated economic growth, thereby creating job opportunities. He emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, initiatives such as the beautification of Addis Ababa, the development of Riverside and the Chaka Projects, in addition to the corridor development in Addis Ababa, have created new tourist destinations and generated revenues.
Additionally, the construction of Unity Park and Entoto Parks, the Science Museum, and the Abrehot Library have further enriched the country’s tourism offerings, the minister added. Eco-tourism destinations like Halala Kela, Chebera Churchura, Wonchi are generating income, while the Adwa Victory Memorial and other corridor development projects are also enhancing the attractiveness of the
city, he said.
Ethiopia’s BRICS membership and its active role in regional and continental affairs, as well as the prevailing peaceful environment in the country, have contributed to the expansion of tourist destinations and infrastructure development, according to the minister. The minister also recalled such conducive situations enable Addis Ababa to have hosted several continental and international conferences and forums, including the World Without Hunger Conference and the African 1st Defense Force Conference, which further elevates the country’s profile.
Ethiopia is actively working to enhance its international image and improve the lives of its citizens. ‘Ethiopia has been actively engaging with the international community through a series of high-profile conferences. These events have not only enhanced the country’s global image but have also contributed to its economic development and diplomatic relations,’ he underscored.
one such significant event was the World Without Hunger Conference, which b
rought together global leaders, policymakers, and investors to address the pressing issue of food security. Ethiopia has emerged as a significant global player, hosting a series of high-profile international events. The World Without Hunger Conference, for instance, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including five heads of state, over 30 ministers, and participants from 111 countries. This global gathering underscored Ethiopia’s commitment to addressing global food security challenges.
The country is set to host over ten international and continental conferences in November 2024, including the Ethio Green Mobility 2024 Conference, and the Africa Peace Ministers Congress. These events will further solidify Ethiopia’s position as a global hub for diplomacy and conference tourism.