Ethiopia, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, has long been a destination for intrepid travelers seeking adventure off the beaten path. However, with the construction of the Abbay Hydro Dam, the country’s tourism sector is poised for a major boost. No doubt, the dam project has witnessed tangible potentials to promote tourism in Ethiopia and attract even more visitors to this beautiful East African nation.
Abbay Hydro Dam is a massive hydroelectric dam being built on the Abbay River in the western part of Ethiopia. Once completed, the Dam will be the largest in Africa and one of the largest in the world, providing much-needed electricity to the country and helping to bolster its economy aside from promoting cooperation and economic integration within the region and beyond.
After reaching a significant project completion, the Abbay Hydro Dam has become a magnificent landmark located in Ethiopia. With the increasing number of people visiting this awe-inspiring destination, the Abbay Hydro Dam has become a prime location to promote tourism in the country. The Dam is a must-visit spot for tourists and it becomes a new opportunity to boost the country’s tourism industry.
Accordingly, the Dam will generate a significant amount of clean, renewable energy for Ethiopia. This commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation is likely to attract eco-conscious travelers who are increasingly interested in supporting destinations that prioritize green energy initiatives. The construction of the Dam has spurred significant infrastructure development in Ethiopia, including improved roads, airports, and accommodations to the area. This enhanced infrastructure, unquestionably, will make it easier for tourists to travel around the country and access remote, previously inaccessible destinations.
Moreover, the dam project has put Ethiopia in the international spotlight, drawing attention to the country’s economic growth and development efforts. This increased visibility is likely to pique the curiosity of potential tourists who may not have previously considered Ethiopia as a travel destination. Ethiopia’s rich history and cultural heritage are major draw cards for tourists, and the dam project provides an opportunity to showcase these aspects of the country. Visitors can learn about traditional Ethiopian customs and lifestyles while witnessing firsthand the impact of modern infrastructure projects on local communities.
In addition, the location of the dam is ideal to avail adventure tourism in the country where tourists could explore the mountainous project site. Thus, adventure seekers can combine a visit to the dam with trips to this iconic site, creating a diverse and exhilarating travel experience.
According to tourism experts, the best ways to promote tourism include offering a variety of recreational activities, conducting marketing research to understand customer needs, and developing necessary infrastructures for tourist attractions.
Recently, Office of National Council for Coordination of Public Participation on the Construction of the (GERD) (Abbay Dam) announced that since the commencement of Abbay Dam construction, over 300,000 Ethiopians from home and abroad, (Diaspora community), foreign dignitaries and nationals, and over 400 media and diplomatic delegations have visited the Dam.
Council Public Relations and Media Communication Director Hailu Abraham told journalists that Ethiopians from all walks of life visited the grand Dam.
Apart from Ethiopians, foreign dignitaries such as Sudan’s Former President Omar al-Bashir, delegations from various countries including Saudi Arabia and Qatar and Sudanese as well as Egyptian journalists paid the visit to Abbay Dam.
Hailu also noted that the people of Ethiopia have been carrying out many tasks to support the construction of the iconic project and among these activities; they have been presented in person at the construction site and observed the project’s progress.
“Journalists reported the progress of the mega Dam, investors prepared themselves for additional support, the diplomats advocate for the project in the diplomatic channel, members of the defense, police and other security agencies also promised to ensure the safety of the dam.”
Also, a growing number of Ethiopian Diasporas have also been visiting the site. According to the Director, the Ethiopian Diaspora all over the world are doing great jobs by organizing themselves in groups, using the modern media options, writing various journals, especially using the Arab media, and expressing their positive point on the Dam.
According to him, not only Ethiopian journalists, but also from other countries (Sudan, Algeria) have been participating in informing the Arab World about the true features of the Abbay Dam and doing a great job of public diplomacy.
To complement the commendable engagement of the Diaspora community to support the national cause, the Office has arranged various programs that enable the former to visit the Dam. In 2024 alone, members of the Ethiopian Diaspora community visited the Dam in three rounds. During the visits, the Diasporas have expressed their delight over the speedy and meticulous execution of the project that is expected to be the engine of Ethiopia’s industrialization, the Director remarked.
Visitors to the Abbay Hydro Dam will experience the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Nile River as it flows through the Dam. The majestic sight of the Dam, surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains, is truly a sight to behold.
So far, the Abbay Hydro Dam is not only a stunning natural landmark but also a powerhouse of hydroelectricity. Thus, visitors can witness the massive turbines generating clean and sustainable energy, showcasing the innovative technology behind the Dam.
The Dam is also surrounded by beautiful landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and picnicking in the scenic surroundings of the Dam, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
What is more, the Dam project offers educational tours and information sessions to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable practices in tourism. Visitors can learn about the impact of their actions on the environment and how they can contribute to conservation efforts.
In sum, the Abbay Hydro Dam promotes sustainable tourism practices by emphasizing the importance of preserving the natural environment while welcoming visitors. The Dam has the potential to revolutionize Ethiopia’s tourism industry, attracting a new wave of travelers eager to explore this dynamic and culturally rich country. By promoting sustainable energy, improving infrastructure, increasing visibility, showcasing cultural experiences, and offering adventure tourism opportunities, the Abbay Hydro Dam project is set to elevate Ethiopia’s profile on the global stage and position it as a top travel destination in Africa. So why wait? Plan your visit to Ethiopia today and discover the wonders that await you along the banks of the Blue Nile.
BY TEWODROS KASSA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 5 APRIL 2024
