Ethiopia is taking extensive measures to ensure the successful reception of a large number of tourists and Ethiopian nationals during the upcoming holiday seasons, according to the Ministry of Tourism (MoT).
In an exclusive interview with The Ethiopian Herald, Seleshi Girma, the State Minister of MoT, revealed that a significant influx of tourists from Europe, America, and other countries, along with Ethiopian nationals, is expected to visit the country to participate in the Ethiopian Christmas and Epiphany celebrations.
Seleshi highlighted that these tourists, taking advantage of their New Year holiday break, have chosen Ethiopia as their preferred destination due to its unique religious and cultural celebrations, such as the Ethiopian Christmas and Epiphany holidays.
To ensure a seamless experience for visitors, the MoT has engaged in discussions with Ethiopian Airlines to enhance logistical support. Additionally, representatives of star-rated hotels in the capital city have confirmed that they have completed all preparations to welcome participants attending the upcoming African Union (AU) assembly.
The 37th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly and the 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council are scheduled to take place from 15 to 19 February 2024.
Ayehu Gesesse, the Head of the Sales Department at Skylight Hotel, emphasized the significant role that continental and international conferences play in boosting the tourism industry and the development of the hotel sector. Gesesse expressed optimism about the positive impact these events will have on both sectors.
Given that Addis Ababa is a multifaceted tourist city, the Ministry of Tourism Marketing and Promotion, led by the State Minister of Tourism, Lensa Mekonnen has initiated training programs for stakeholders in the tourism sector. The aim is to enhance tourism information delivery and promote the various tourist destinations and attractions the city has to offer.
Haftay Gebreegziabher, a representative from the Addis Ababa Tourism Bureau expressed the belief that Addis Ababa possesses abundant tourist resources that bridge the past, present, and future. He particularly highlighted the Adwa Museum project, which is expected to play a major role in promoting the development of tourism. Haftay emphasized the importance of promoting these resources on international platforms and media, in addition to collaborating with local media outlets. Moreover, he urged all residents of the city to contribute to the promotion of these resources.
Frehiwot G/Medhin, the Director of Tourism Development and Promotion, stated that tourist centers in Addis Ababa are being restructured to serve as information hubs for both local and foreign visitors. These centers will be strategically located and provide comprehensive services.
Despite the abundance of tourism resources in Addis Ababa, the tourism office acknowledges the challenges it faces. To address these challenges, the office organized a panel discussion involving stakeholders to focus on tourism development, opportunities, challenges, international practices, and competitiveness. Research papers were presented, shedding light on the growth potential and competitiveness of tourism in the city.
Sertse Fresibhat, another representative, emphasized the need to review the tourism policy in light of the stagnant growth caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. He suggested leveraging the city’s newly developed tourist destinations, large-scale public entertainment venues, and parks to boost tourism revenue. Sertse also proposed establishing an independent office dedicated to tourism and advocated for organizing cultural and artistic festivals alongside major continental and international conferences. By emphasizing the benefits of tourism, he encouraged everyone to become ambassadors for the country.
Furthermore, the office acknowledged the untapped potential of fair tourism in Addis Ababa and expressed the need to explore and work on this idea. Given the city’s central location, its historical and cultural attractions, and its status as a diplomatic hub and venue for large conferences, the conditions are favorable for the development of tourism.
Museums and cultural centers serve as important institutions for learning about nature, history, civilization, culture, faith, art, science, and technology. To enhance the organization and accessibility of museums in Addis Ababa, the Addis Ababa Museum and Mobile Heritage Development Directorate has conducted training programs for museum professionals and owners. These programs aim to improve exhibition management, heritage preservation, and the overall value of museums.
During the Christmas celebrations in Lalibela, the atmosphere gradually becomes less crowded as many people start their journey home. Some individuals take the opportunity to rest after the festivities, while others continue visiting and praying at the renowned Church of St. George, which is widely recognized and photographed due to its distinctive cross shape and lack of a temporary shelter.
The religious ceremonies in Lalibela attract numerous traders who set up stalls or sell their merchandise from vans. Traditional clothing, decorative white shawls, cross necklaces, Bibles, and Lalibela-themed T-shirts are among the popular items available. Additionally, due to the custom of removing shoes or sandals when entering the churches, there are several vendors selling plastic sandals for those in need of replacements.
The courtyard surrounding the Church of St. George is filled with pilgrims during the Christmas celebrations. Dignitaries and ambassadors from various countries occupy a designated area on the surrounding cliff rim. Along the remaining edge of the rim, priests sway in unison, chanting and rattling their sistrums, a percussion instrument. Moving further along the rim and surrounding hills of the church, thousands of worshippers gather, witnessing the proceedings from every direction.
The vibrant atmosphere of the Christmas celebrations in Lalibela attracts visitors and locals alike. The air is filled with the sounds of prayers, hymns, and the bustling activities of traders. The courtyard and surrounding areas become a melting pot of cultures, as people from different backgrounds come together to celebrate and witness the rich religious traditions of Ethiopia.
As the festivities unfold, countless photos and selfies are taken at the Church of St. George, capturing the spirit and beauty of the occasion. The iconic church, with its exposed architecture and cross-shaped design, serves as a captivating backdrop for these memorable snapshots.
In addition to the religious significance, Lalibela’s Christmas celebrations also offer economic opportunities for traders and vendors. The influx of pilgrims and visitors creates a bustling market atmosphere, with stalls offering a variety of goods. Vibrant and colorful traditional clothing, intricately designed white shawls, religious artifacts such as cross necklaces and Bibles, as well as Lalibela-themed souvenirs like T-shirts, attract the attention of both tourists and locals.
The Christmas celebrations in Lalibela not only showcase the religious devotion of the Ethiopian people but also serve as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the country. The event highlights the sense of unity and community as people from different walks of life come together to celebrate and partake in this cherished tradition.
BY LAKACHEW ATINAFU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 2 JANUARY 2024
