ADDIS ABABA– The Gurage Zone Culture and Tourism Department has announced its readiness to welcome approximately 800,000 tourists for the upcoming MeskelHoliday, accompanied by a vibrant cultural festival from September 19 to 22, 2024.
In an interview with the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA), the Gurage Zone Culture and Tourism Department Head Meseret Amerga shared that extensive preparations have been made to accommodate both local and international tourists for the holiday. She noted that Meskel has been celebrated in the zone for six consecutive years, retaining its religious and historical significance while also incorporating new programs to pass cultural traditions on to future generations. “We are committed to celebrating the festival for the seventh time with similar dedication,” she added.
The preparations include a state-level celebration of Meskel through a cultural festival in the ‘Enor’ district. Additionally, an exhibition and bazaar in Wolkitetown will feature local handicrafts, cultural materials, traditional foods, and art, aimed at stimulating the local economy.
The festival will also include a fashion show, language and cultural symposium, and panel discussions, offering a platform to highlight previously unrecognized cultural practices. “These diverse programs will play a crucial role in unveiling different cultural heritages,”Meseret emphasized.
To enhance the visitor experience, the Zone is working closely with stakeholders to address logistical and tariff-related issues, making the area more convenient for tourists. Comprehensive measures are being taken to ensure the service sector and infrastructure are well-prepared for the influx of visitors.
A supervisory committee, led by the Zone Administrator, has been established to oversee all activities related to the holiday celebration. The head noted that the Meskel holiday remains the most celebrated and tourist-attracting event in the Gurage Zone, promising an unforgettable cultural experience for all attendees.
BY BETELHEM BEDLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 31 AUGUST 2024
