Ethiopia reaffirms commitment to biodiversity and nature‑based tourism
Ethiopia has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting biodiversity, safeguarding cultural heritage and supporting resilient livelihoods, as State Minister of Tourism Sileshi Girma opened the 25th Global Wildlife Program conference in Addis Ababa on 3 November 2025. He said strategic investment in infrastructure, nature‑based tourism and the national Green Legacy initiative is aimed at ecological sustainability and inclusive development, with protected areas positioned to drive conservation and community benefits.
As a member of the 38‑country GWP network, Ethiopia cited milestones including the full operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and riverside and corridor developments as part of efforts to strengthen the visitor economy while conserving natural assets. The Ethiopian Wildlife Authority highlighted the country’s ecological range – from highlands above 4,000 metres to lowlands 150 metres below sea level – and ongoing work to align protected‑area management with Green Legacy goals and expand nature‑based tourism. The conference seeks to share knowledge, build partnerships and showcase best practice to scale impact across member projects.
Source: Ethiopian News Agency
