ADDIS ABABA – In a promising sign of recovery, the Tigray Interim Administration Culture and Tourism Bureau has reported that over 100,000 domestic tourists visited the state’s renowned cultural and historical sites over the past eight months.
According to the Bureau Deputy Head Hailay Beyene, this surge in domestic tourism reflects a growing confidence in the state’s stability and its vast tourism potential following the recent peace agreement.
“The tourism sector is showing strong signs of revival. This number of visitors in such a short period is very encouraging,” he told the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA).
The impressive figures come as a result of coordinated efforts between the federal government, regional authorities, and local communities. These stakeholders have worked together to create a more welcoming and organized tourism environment, aiming not only to attract more visitors but also to increase the duration of their stay.
Hailay credited the growth to Tigray’s unique offerings of cultural, historical, and religious attractions, which continue to resonate with domestic travelers.
“We are leveraging our own local assets – our heritage and community – to revive tourism. And it is working,” he said.
Efforts are now being expanded to ensure the tourism sector continues this momentum. The Bureau is collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism and international organizations to promote Tigray as a prime destination. Community engagement remains a cornerstone of this strategy. “We have strong social capital. When tourism is community-driven, it becomes more sustainable and accepted by the people,” Hailay noted.
Looking ahead, the Bureau has laid out ambitious plans for the remainder of the budget year. These include heritage preservation and registration, improvements in hospitality services, local economic benefits, and enhanced marketing efforts.
In addition, the Ministry of Tourism is in the process of revising its national tourism policy, a move that could further empower states like Tigray to expand their reach and impact. “With policy support, Tigray’s tourism sector could become a national success story,” Hailay said optimistically.
With domestic tourism on the rise and strategic initiatives in place, Tigray is poised to reclaim its position as one of Ethiopia’s most captivating travel destinations.
BY ESSEYE MENGISTE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 6 APRIL 2025
