-Secures over 29 Bln Birr
ADDIS ABABA – The Oromia State Tourism and Culture Bureau has reported significant progress in boosting tourism revenue, securing over 29 billion birr during the past six months alone.
The Bureau’s Tourism Development and Promotion Director Fantahun Tadese highlighted the state’s aggressive efforts to develop tourism destinations. “Despite setting a target of 31 billion Birr, we have already collected 29 billion,” he said.
The region has attracted over 11 million domestic tourists and over 100,000 international visitors. Ongoing efforts focus on modernizing tourist destinations and equipping them with necessary infrastructure.
Recently, Oromia State Chief Administrator Shimelis Abdisa emphasized the Ethiopian government’s focus on five key sectors: agriculture, manufacturing, mining, tourism, and services.
“Recognizing the significant potential of tourism to drive economic growth, the government is committed to developing this sector,” he stated.
The Chief Administrator acknowledged that while Ethiopia boasts abundant tourism potential, underdevelopment of infrastructure and destinations have hindered its full exploitation. He highlighted the state’s efforts to harness its tourism potential and contribute to the economy.
Oromia is actively promoting the tourism industry through regulations and amendments aimed at stimulating growth. The Chief Administrator emphasized the government’s strong commitment to the sector, noting that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has identified tourism as a priority area for economic growth.
He indicated that the significant progress made in recent years in developing Ethiopia’s tourism sector, leading to increased growth and job creation. The Chief Administrator noted that while many destinations remain underdeveloped, the country has immense untapped potential.
By the same token, Ethiopian Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassas lately reiterated the government’s commitment to making Ethiopia a preferred tourist destination in Africa. This includes enhancing existing destinations and developing new ones that meet international standards.
The government is collaborating with international organizations like UNESCO to improve infrastructure and accessibility to historical sites and heritage. By increasing the number of tourism service providers and boosting tourism investment, Ethiopia aims to generate foreign currency and strengthen its economy.
BY HAILE DEMEKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 10 JANUARY 2025
