BY TEWODROS KASSA
Tourism, which is sometimes called the “smokeless industry,” has great potential not only to bring foreign currency to a particular country where there are tourist attraction sites; it also has great potential to build that particular country`s image. It is for this very reason that most countries in the world invest millions of dollars in the sector. Using the tourism sector as an alternative way, they promote their country`s image and attract investment.
Different countries develop their tourism potential through massive man-made tourist destinations. Mega hotels, resorts and lodges constructed around water bodies like the ocean, lakes, and rivers proved that tourists are highly attracted to luxurious man-made tourist destinations. In doing so, numerous countries have given due priority to the development of artificial tourist destinations and have been generating tangible income.
In this regard, Ethiopia embraces diversified potential that could be a great asset to stimulate its tourism sector and attract numerous international tourists. Tourism experts underscored that the development of different tourist destinations across the country sought to boost the current tourist inflow.
Ethiopia is home to many natural and man-made heritages that are used as tourist attractions. The country has not generated the expected income from the tourism sector due to different bottlenecks. In addition to preserving heritage and passing it on to future generations, it is important to prioritize the sector’s untapped potential and attract tourists.
Currently, the country has been undertaking various measures to make historical and natural attractions open to visitors across the country. It is an undeniable fact that Ethiopia’s topography, windy climate, beautiful natural features, rare species of animals and plants, as well as the ancient works of Ethiopians, are the best places to visit.
Tourism plays an immense role in generating hard currency and creating job opportunities for the youth. In addition, the hotels, lodges, parks, and youth entertainment facilities that are being built by the government, private organizations, and private investors are becoming more popular tourist destinations in the country. Halala Kela Resort, which is a part of the Gebeta Le Heger project, is one of the most beautiful and attractive places in the country. Halala Kela Resort is located in the Dawro Zone of southwest Ethiopia, 450 kilometers away from Addis Ababa.
The place shows nature at its best. Information shows that the place was identified by Halala Kela, who is the former King of Dawro. The stone cabin and terrace built by the king are now a tourist attraction. Located on the shores of a man-made lake created by the Gibe III Power Plant, Halala Kela Resort is home to museums and research centers showcasing the local historical and cultural heritage of the area.
Halala Kela has become a preferred destination for visitors who prefer a peaceful and quiet place to admire history, culture, nature, and the fruits. The place is a beautiful place where the great Dawro Wall Kati Hala is located, along with the amazing Gilgel Gebe 3 Power Plant, the heart-wrenching Chobera Churcherura National Park, and the culturally rich Tsara community. Apart from the fact that Halala Kela Resort has a convenient infrastructure for tourist destinations, the local topography, historical places, and various types of plants around are the biggest factors that attract visitors to the place.
Ethiopian Tourism Journalists Association President, Journalist Henok Seyoum, said that the tourism development works that are being done by the Gebeta Le Hager and Gebeta Le Tiwuld projects contribute a lot to promoting the country’s tourism. The Halala Kela project witnesses the success of the efforts being exerted by the government to stimulate the tourism sector, he said.
He further said that in addition to the electricity provided by the Koisha Hydroelectric Dam, the creation of the man-made lake as a good opportunity for tourism development is worthy of generating income from the tourism sector. According to him, the construction of the Halala Kela resort in the area will extend the tourists’ stay and benefit the local community economically.
According to him, the place has a long history and contains a diversified culture. He added that the Halala resort meets international visitor accommodation standards and will play a major role in making the country a tourist destination, adding that, the development not only expands tourism and creates jobs, but also has the potential to attract more investment. On his part, Tourism State Minister Selshi Girma explained that after the Halala Kela Resort was built and opened for service; citizens of different countries showed eagerness to visit the area.
Diplomats from foreign countries living in Addis Ababa are going there with their families. They say that the resort is playing an irreplaceable role in promoting the local historical heritage and community’s culture, he said. He further said that there are many tourist destinations in our country. However, lack of access to various infrastructures remains a challenge to harnessing the country’s immense tourism potential.
In sum, the newly developed man-made tourist destination has brought a new look to Addis Ababa and other parts of the country. The presence of such standardized man-made tourist destinations immensely contributes to the availability of state-of-the-art tourist services. Beyond this, it is important to witness the positive role of the newly developed tourist destinations in creating new job opportunities for the growing number of youths graduating from different universities. Above all, it can further initiate private investors to engage in the area, earn foreign currency and promote their country.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 16 JUNE 2023
