In an interview with NBC Media on June 30, 2026, the Prime Minister emphasized that tourism is a key catalyst for job creation, foreign investment, and foreign exchange earnings.

He noted that the sector also stimulates a wide range of related industries, including hospitality, transportation, trade, and the creative economy.

« I doubt there is any country in the world that offers such diversity as Ethiopia, » Abiy Ahmed said, highlighting the nation’s exceptional natural, historical, and cultural heritage.

The Ethiopian government aims to capitalize on its outstanding tourism assets, including the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the ancient city of Aksum, the castles of Gondar, Lake Tana, the Bale Mountains, and the Danakil Depression, to further enhance the country’s appeal as a global tourism destination.

This strategy is supported by significant investments in tourism infrastructure, including the construction of hotels, airports, conference centers, transportation networks, and several integrated tourism complexes across the country.

The first results already demonstrate the effectiveness of this policy. According to official statistics, Ethiopia has welcomed more than 1.4 million international visitors this year, generating nearly US$5.2 billion in tourism revenue.

Domestic tourism has also experienced remarkable growth, with more than 50 million visits, contributing over 79 billion Ethiopian birr to the national economy. Ethiopia is also strengthening its position as a leading destination for business tourism in Africa, having successfully hosted 204 international conferences, attracting nearly 166,000 participants.

Commenting on this strategic vision, His Excellency Mekuria Getachew Worku, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, said tourism is one of the most promising sectors of the Ethiopian economy. He noted that continued investment in tourism infrastructure supports sustainable development, creates employment opportunities, increases foreign exchange earnings, and strengthens international cooperation.

For the Ethiopian authorities, tourism has now emerged as a strategic instrument for economic transformation, combining sustainable growth, the promotion of the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage, and enhanced international visibility.

By Willyeve Diakuantinu
TOP243NEWS

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