ADDIS ABABA – The Axum Town Culture and Tourism Department has unveiled plans to draw over 5,000 foreign tourists in the current Fiscal Year (FY), leveraging the improved peace and stability in Tigray State as key drivers.
Speaking to the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA), the Department’s Head, Gebremedhin Fitsumbirhan, highlighted ongoing initiatives designed to revitalize Axum’s tourism sector, which was severely affected by the two-year conflict. “Axum was once a major destination for foreign visitors, but the war led to a sharp decline in tourism. Now, we are working diligently to revive the industry and welcome tourists back,” he stated.
In the past three months, Axum has already seen resurgence in tourism, with 340 foreign tourists and over 1,000 local visitors arriving in the town. Gebremedhin expressed optimism that these numbers will continue to grow as peace efforts progress. “Our goal is to attract over 5,000 foreign tourists by the end of this fiscal year, assuming peace in Tigray is fully maintained,” he added.
The town is working closely with local authorities to ensure lasting peace, which is seen as essential to reigniting tourism in the state. Domestic tourists and members of the Ethiopian Diaspora have already begun returning, especially during recent holidays such as Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) and Ashenda (a festival for girls and young women). A further influx is expected for the upcoming Axum Tsion (Zion) celebration in November.
Addressing concerns about misinformation, Gebremedhin urged potential tourists to seek reliable information from official sources, rather than falling prey to false reports on social media. He emphasized that the department remains committed to ensuring peace, which is crucial for the recovery of the tourism sector.
With peace efforts advancing, Axum is poised to reclaim its status as a top destination for both international and domestic visitors.
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER 2024