Addis Ababa: The celebration of Timket (Feast of the Baptism of Lord Jesus Christ) particularly in Addis Ababa will be more spectacular by the shining corridor development, greening initiatives, and modernization efforts of the city, tourism State Minister, Sileshi Girma said. The preparation to host tourists is well underway for Timket, Ethiopia’s epiphany celebration, he said.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, from hotel accommodation to places where Timket is celebrated, everything is ready, the state minister said. A key element of the country’s readiness is extensive infrastructure development through the corridor development projects which Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed initiated. Sileshi added that the number of flights to Gondar has significantly increased, ensuring easier access for both domestic and international tourists. “The number of flights has increased a lot over the past week,” he said, highlighting the improved connectivity to this historic city.
Tourists will also benefit from the renovation of the Fasil Ghebbi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, he said. “The Royal Enclosure is open for visitors,” Sileshi said, underlining the significance of these revitalized sites in attracting tourists and enriching their experience in Gondar. The economic impact of Timket is poised to be substantial, with local businesses anticipating a surge in activity, according to the state minister. “This will encourage local mobility and economic growth,” Sileshi noted, emphasizing that the holiday is an important opportunity for local artisans and businesses to showcase their crafts and products.
This year’s Timket celebration leverages Ethiopia’s cultural heritage and natural beauty for tourism growth, he stated. The state minister discussed the broader initiatives whose implementation has been spearheaded by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed across the nation to foster tourism destinations and infrastructures. “Aggressive work has been done, starting with airport expansion and the development of new tourist destinations,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment that encourages tourists’ length of stay.
With concerted efforts on the expansion of tourist destinations across the nation, Ethiopia is positioning itself as a tourism destination, considering Addis Ababa as an evolving hub for conference tourism, attracting a larger influx of guests and visitors. Ethiopia is ready to showcase its rich cultural heritages and natural beauty, extending an invitation to visitors.