Policy Reforms in Tourism Yield Tangible Results, Says Minister

Addis Ababa: The fundamental policy changes implemented in the tourism sector have enabled Ethiopia to register tangible results, particularly in expanding tourist destinations, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa said. She also highlighted the efforts made to develop and promote Ethiopia's rich tourism resources as significant sources of revenue.According to Ethiopian News Agency, the minister, who provided an overview of the activities undertaken in the tourism sector since the initiation of national reforms, explained that Ethiopia has been building a diversified economy based on agriculture, industry, tourism, information, communication technology, and mining. Policy adjustments in the tourism sector have broadened destination development, brought increased focus to the sector, and unveiled previously untapped national resources, showcasing Ethiopia's remarkable beauty.Notably, the construction of new tourist destinations and the modernization of existing ones have attracted both domestic and internation al visitors. In this regard, she pointed out the increase in the number of tourists following the significant number of tourism destinations developed since the reforms. The "Dine for Sheger" project in Addis Ababa has, for instance, created numerous destinations that attracted many tourists.The post-reform period has seen the expansion of Ethiopian tourist destinations and the development of world-class infrastructure, Selamawit stated. The minister emphasized that the "Dine for the Nation" projects implemented across various regions have brought historical and natural resources to the forefront. She cited Chebera Churchura, Halala Kela, Gorgora, and Wonchi Dendi eco-tourism projects as examples, noting their contribution to broadening the tourism landscape and achieving tangible outcomes.She added that the enhanced tourism potential developed since the reforms significantly supports efforts to attract more tourists to the country. Activities are underway to make tourist destinations key revenue generato rs for the nation, it was revealed. Beyond destination development, policy reforms in the tourism sector have facilitated tangible results, Selamawit stressed.The ministry is actively promoting Ethiopian tourist destinations to increase visitor numbers from abroad, it was pointed out. In parallel with destination development, significant focus is being placed on promoting Ethiopia's unique identity internationally. The minister cited recent participation in trade exhibitions in Germany, the United Kingdom, China, and various African countries, where collaboration with the private sector has been instrumental in promoting tourist attractions. She also noted the significant emphasis placed on utilizing digital platforms to promote tourist destinations.