The future of tourism in Ethiopia is bright, with significant potential for expansion and development. Dine for Ethiopia projects, among others, are paving the way for a thriving tourism industry by showcasing the country’s vast potentials.
It is obvious that to ensure sustained growth, innovation and strategic planning are essential in the tourism sector. In this regard, ‘Dine for Ethiopia’ projects are at the forefront of this effort, continuously exploring new ways to attract visitors, enhance experiences, and promote sustainability.
In Ethiopia, sustainable tourism practices are crucial for protecting the country’s breathtaking natural beauty. From the lush highlands to the rugged landscapes, initiatives like Dine for Ethiopia prioritize environmental conservation. By promoting eco-friendly tourism activities and advocating for responsible travel practices, these projects help safeguard Ethiopia’s precious ecosystems for future generations to enjoy aside from generating considerable economic benefits for the local people, the states where the resources are located and the country as well; while minimizing negative impacts on the environment.
Recently, with the aim to improve service quality, boost efficiency and enhance the tourism experience in Ethiopia by utilizing Ethiopian Airlines Group’s expertise in the hospitality industry, the Ethiopian Airlines signed agreements with states to enable the former carry out the management and operation activities of the lodges and resorts that are built under the Dine for Ethiopia projects thereby ensuring consistent growth and development. The Skylight Hotel of the Ethiopian Airlines Group will henceforth manage the lodges and resorts built through Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) initiative.
Those lodges and resorts were transferred to the states in a ceremony held at the Office of the Prime Minister; and during the signing ceremony the states in turn signed agreements with the Airlines that would manage the lodges and resorts.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said on the occasion that tourism and air transport are interlinked and the Airlines has been working to stimulate tourism in Ethiopia. The Skylight Hotel owned by the Airlines has been providing standard hospitality services for visitors.
“Ethiopian has been working to expand this service to the states, and the agreements have fulfilled the long-term dream of the Airline.”
The CEO confirmed that the agreements combine good fortune with responsibility and visitors will have a comfortable stay in the international standard hotel services.
Tourism Minister Nasise Chali said that the lodges and resorts handed over to the Ethiopian Airlines would help maintain quality service, which would set an example for service providers.
The Minister added that it is a great opportunity to raise the quality of the country’s tourism and hotel services and build the image of the country.
According to her, the Chebera Churchura Park, situated in Southwest Ethiopia Region, had not attracted tourists as much as it should due to the lack of infrastructure. However, thanks to the infrastructures established under the Dine for Ethiopia initiative, the Park is now fully prepared to receive visitors from various corners of the globe, allowing them to marvel at the breathtaking scenery of the State, Nasise underscored.
The construction of Chebera Elephant Paw Lodge adheres to environmentally friendly principles, offering a comfortable and contemporary retreat for tourists to enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
Nasise expressed that this serves as a clear indication of the government’s commitment to developing tourist destinations that showcase the country’s natural beauty while ensuring the preservation of nature remains a top priority.
She revealed that numerous other tourist destinations are currently being developed as part of the “Dine for Generation” projects throughout the country. The Minister emphasized that these upcoming tourist destinations will play a crucial role in enhancing Ethiopia’s image and reputation on the global stage.
Office of the Prime Minister Head and Cabinet Affairs Minister, Alemtsehay Paulos also said that the Dine for Nation program has proven that it is possible to identify and use the potentials that the country has in each area.
The effectiveness of the initiative has created opportunities for other projects to be realized, she said, pointing out that the agreements will help revive the tourism sector by providing services that meet international standards.
Alemtsehay urged states to continue strengthening the cooperation they have shown in the construction process of the projects.
Office of the Prime Minister Press Secretary Head, Billene Seyoum said on her part that Dine for Nation has given great experience in involving people in development.
Apart from providing access for many infrastructures, the projects have demonstrated how to complete any project with quality and speed, she added.
Accordingly, harnessing the tourism potentials of Dine for Ethiopia projects could be the key to unlocking a successful tourism strategy. To maximize the impact of Dine for Ethiopia projects, it is essential to collaborate with other tourism stakeholders, such as tour operators, hotels, and travel agencies.
Moreover, harnessing the tourism potentials of Dine for Ethiopia projects requires a strategic approach that emphasizes collaboration, promotion, and cultural experiences. By implementing robust policy and strategies, it is easy to create compelling tourism offerings that showcase the best of Ethiopian natural and man-made blessings.
It is to be recalled that Halala Kella Resort, Chebera Elephant Paw Lodge, Wonchi Eco Tourism, and Gorgora have been built in Dawuro Zone of South West Ethiopia, Oromia and Amhara states, respectively.
In sum, the Dine for Ethiopia projects exemplify the power of tourism to not only tantalize taste buds and captivate travelers but also to drive positive change and empower communities. As Ethiopia’s tourism sector continues to evolve and flourish fueled by a commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation, the potential for growth and development in this vibrant destination is limitless. By supporting initiatives that celebrate Ethiopia’s unique identity and foster responsible travel practices, it is possible to play a part in nurturing a more inclusive, prosperous, and culturally rich tourism landscape for generations to come. By embracing innovation and implementing effective strategies, the future of tourism in Ethiopia looks promising, with exciting opportunities on the horizon for both locals and travelers alike.
BY TEWODROS KASSA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 28 JUNE 2024
