Conference tourism flourishing in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, April 26, 20225 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s conference tourism has thrived during the past nine months, following the government’s successful initiatives, Planning and Development State Minister Mr. Bereket Fissehatsion said.

Ethiopia has hosted over 60 major conferences in the past 9 months, a significant increase when compared to 19 of the same period last year.

For the state minister, this surge is attributed to the government’s initiatives like “Dine for Nation” to improve conference facilities and tourist infrastructure and attractions.

The “Dine for Nation” Initiative by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is designed to boost tourism by improving the image and facilities of tourist destinations alongside actively promoting unique cultural heritages and tourist attractions on the global stage.

Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa, has been playing a crucial role as a continental hub, which is hugely promoting conference tourism in particular and the nation’s tourism industry in general, Bereket said.

According to the state minister, efforts have been undertaken to properly utilize the capability of the renowned airline in promoting Ethiopia’s tourism sector during the stated period.

Conference tourism has significantly surged and expanded driven by newly developing tourist destinations and conference facilities over the past nine months, it was learned.

Ethiopia has hosted various international conferences, including the 46th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the African Defense Ministers Conference.

As the headquarters of the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, Ethiopia continues to host various regional, continental and international conferences.

Stating that the country has recently hosted a well-organized African Union Summit with the active participation of all pertinent stakeholders, the state minister told local news agency that the welcoming and warm reception of delegates was greatly commended, a crucial factor for image building and promoting the country.