Addis Ababa, a city that has been on the list of cities lasting over a century across the globe, has proven itself to be a capital of conferences and tourism, hosting more than 30 international conferences in the first quarter of this fiscal year alone. It is a diverse and dynamic city that offers a wide range of opportunities for conferences, events, seminars, webinars, and workshops, both those that have taken place so far and those that are upcoming.
Heads of state and government from Kenya, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and the UAE visited Ethiopia alongside the UN World without Hunger summit. Moreover, major conferences such as the Confederation of African Football summit, the African Religious Institutions meeting, the Hydromet Conference, and the Africa Trade Ministers’ summit have been held in Addis, according to information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
A list of upcoming conferences to be held in Addis Ababa includes topics related to education, medical research, psychology and allied sciences, political science and international relations, as well as environmental and food monitoring, among others.
There are myriad convincing reasons for choosing this city as a conference and tourism hub. Among them are its lovely weather, which is convenient for any visitor, diplomat, or conference attendee; its peaceful atmosphere while accommodating various types of conferences despite having millions of residents; its attractive features, especially following the recent construction of public corridors; its star-level hotels suited to personal comfort; and delicious and healthy dishes served by enthusiastic attendants with inviting smiles. All these elements make the city stand out as if seen from the ends of the earth.
Additionally, Addis Ababa is the capital of a people who have lived in freedom, resisting all forms of colonial rule with their blood and lives. As an independent nation, Ethiopia has acted as an agent for people across Africa and beyond during their struggles against colonialism, serving as their voice on global stages like the League of Nations and its successor, the United Nations. Beyond merely representing oppressed peoples, Ethiopia provided direct assistance to freedom fighters through training and materials. These contributions enhance Addis Ababa’s status as a principal city for hosting regional, continental, and international conferences.
The successful execution of these conferences demonstrates Ethiopia’s universal capacity and role. The successes achieved in this regard have not come without effort; rather, they are the result of the committed leadership demonstrated by the country’s leaders at all level.
Similarly, the hospitality of the peace-loving residents of the city has made guests feel at home while enjoying leisure time here, alongside the city’s tourist attractions, including parks built both within and on its outskirts.
Despite challenges arising from the country’s relentless enemies—who leave no stone unturned to undermine these conferences by raising security issues—all events have been conducted peacefully thanks to the tireless efforts of strong and disciplined security forces. Above all, the country’s smooth diplomatic relations with almost all nations across the globe have played a crucial role.
On the other hand, the successful conferences held in Addis have been rewarding for Ethiopia in general and for the city in particular by generating income in the economic sector. This success is encouraging for both the city and the country as they leverage the expansion of tourist destinations.
In summary, the peaceful execution of conferences and festivals undertaken so far will likely guarantee the successful hosting of future events and serve as a testament to Addis Ababa being a city that deserves admiration and trust.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2024
