Ethiopia’s Tourism Boom: Minister highlights achievements and strategic projects to bolster nat’l tourism potential

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (FMC) – Minister of Tourism, Ms. Selamawit Kassa, outlined the government’s ongoing endeavors to harness Ethiopia’s untapped tourism potential, turning the country into a global destination for culture, history, and eco-tourism.

 It is noteworthy that Ethiopia boasts 17 properties inscribed on UNESCO’s Tangible and Intangible World Heritage lists. While some, like Lalibela, were inscribed as early as 1978, recent additions include the Gedeo-Cultural Landscape, Bale Mountains National Park, and the Melka Knture and Balchit Archaeological and Paleontological sites in Ethiopia’s highlands.

With groundbreaking restoration projects and strategic international partnerships, Ethiopia is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s tourism sector, it was indicated.

The Press Secretary of the Office of the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Ms. Billene Seyoum, recently sat down with Ms. Selamawit, for episode 9 of the “Ethiopia In Focus” series.

On the occasion, the Minister shared insights into the country’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its cultural heritage, beginning with the globally significant Lalibela rock-hewn churches. Once threatened by natural and man-made factors, the churches are now undergoing a significant restoration, thanks to an international partnership with France.

“The Lalibela restoration is not just about preserving a site. It’s about restoring Ethiopia’s place as a cultural and spiritual hub for the world,” Selamawit emphasized.

She believes this project is a pivotal moment in Ethiopia’s tourism renaissance.

The government’s commitment to preserving Ethiopia’s rich history extends to the National Museum, which houses the world-renowned fossil “Lucy.” With France’s backing, the museum’s renovation project is now in its second phase, transforming the space into an even more captivating destination for tourists and researchers alike. “When visitors come to Ethiopia, they’ll see more than just artifacts. They’ll witness our country’s connection to the cradle of humankind,” the Tourism Minister said, underlining the museum’s role in showcasing Ethiopia’s extraordinary history.

But her country doesn’t just focus on preserving the past—she said her nation is equally committed to the future. According to her, Ethiopia is taking bold steps to revamp its tourism infrastructure. One of the most exciting developments is the construction of a state-of-the-art convention center in Addis Ababa.

As the diplomatic hub of Africa, Addis Ababa already attracts major international organizations, and with this new facility, the city is becoming a key destination for global conferences, events, and business tourism. “This convention center isn’t just a building; it’s a symbol of Ethiopia’s growing stature on the global stage,” Selamawit explained.

While the global tourism industry has faced numerous challenges in recent years, Selamawit is confident that Ethiopia’s forward-thinking strategies will restore its image and attract visitors from across the world. She said her Ministry is actively engaging with the diplomatic community to correct misconceptions and offer a firsthand look at Ethiopia’s safety, diversity, and tourist attractions. “Our goal is clear—Ethiopia’s beauty, history, and culture cannot be overshadowed by isolated incidents. We’re working hard to show the world the true face of Ethiopia,” she stated.

Another key element of Ethiopia’s tourism revival is domestic travel. Selamawit is encouraged by the surge in interest from local tourists, especially young people eager to explore their country. “The young generation is leading the charge in discovering our cultural treasures. Their engagement with Ethiopia’s diverse landscapes, from the Bale Mountains to the historical wonders of Axum, is changing the way we view tourism,” she said.

The Minister also highlighted how the tourism sector can drive peace and development in local communities. By investing in eco-lodges and community-based tourism initiatives, Ethiopia is ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach beyond just urban areas. One standout example Ms. Slemawit mentioned is the Wenchi Eco-Lodge, part of the Dine for Ethiopia initiative, which has transformed the livelihoods of locals while providing visitors with a chance to experience Ethiopia’s natural beauty. “When you empower communities through tourism, you’re not just creating jobs—you’re building ambassadors for Ethiopia,” she emphasized.

Looking to the future, Ethiopia is laser-focused on expanding its tourism offerings, particularly eco-tourism, the Minister indicated. The country boasts some of Africa’s most pristine wildlife habitats and national parks, which are ripe for development. As the government rolls out new infrastructure projects and attracts more international investments, Ethiopia is poised to capitalize on the growing global demand for sustainable travel experiences.

Minister Selamawit’s vision is clear: Ethiopia’s tourism sector is not just a contributor to the economy, but a cornerstone of national identity, pride, and global influence. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and an exciting array of new tourism initiatives, Ethiopia is set to become one of Africa’s most sought-after destinations.

“We have 13 months of sunshine, a history that dates back millennia, and a people that are ready to share our culture with the world. This is just the beginning,” the Minister concluded with optimism.