Conference Participants Praise Addis Ababa’s Hospitality and Urban Transformation

Addis ababa: International delegates attending various conferences in Addis Ababa this week have praised the warm hospitality of the Ethiopian capital, its rich cultural heritage, and its rapid urban transformation. Participants noted that the city's welcoming atmosphere and visible development changed their perceptions of Ethiopia, offering memorable experiences that extended well beyond the conference halls into valuable opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, and tourism.According to Ethiopian News Agency, conference schedules often allow time to explore Addis Ababa's museums, historic landmarks, and nearby attractions, giving them a deeper appreciation of Ethiopia's history, culture, and ongoing transformation. For many returning visitors, Ethiopia's hospitality remains one of the country's defining qualities."This is my second time coming to Ethiopia," said Obong Moses, Assistant Commissioner for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) at Uganda's Ministry of Education and Sport s, who attended the Innovating Education in Africa Expo 2026. "One thing I've learned is that the people are really welcoming. They really receive visitors." Moses also highlighted the professional lessons he gained during the visit, noting that Ethiopia's TVET system is more advanced than Uganda's.Alshimaa Elbahrawy, Co-Founder of Deaf Gain, an Egyptian social enterprise and edtech platform, also praised the hospitality, stating, "The people are very, very kind. I think it feels like home rather than a different country." She was particularly impressed by the museums, which showcase Ethiopia's history from ancient times to the modern era. A program organized by the African Union further enriched her understanding by introducing participants to local cuisine, traditions, and cultural heritage.Beyond professional engagements, cultural experiences were a highlight for many participants. Professor Ardian Gola, a sociologist attending the Parliamentary Intelligence Security Forum, expressed his admiration, sa ying, "I would like to express my deepest appreciation for this visit, especially meeting the Ethiopian people. They were very friendly and absolutely lovely people." He noted that their approach was inspiring and motivated him to return to Ethiopia.Participants appreciated Addis Ababa's blend of modern infrastructure and traditional heritage, making it an attractive destination for international conferences. They admired the city's evolving skyline, expanding green spaces, and well-curated cultural sites, which offer an accessible gateway to experience both Ethiopia's rich history and its ongoing transformation within a short visit.