New Tourism Destinations Strengthen Ethiopia's Appeal to International Visitors
Ethiopia's ongoing urban development and new tourism infrastructure are drawing positive responses from international visitors, as the country seeks to establish itself as a competitive tourism hub in Africa. Under its Homegrown Economic Reform Program, tourism is one of five identified development pillars, with the concept of "Medemer" - meaning synergy - guiding an approach that integrates Ethiopia's spiritual, cultural and natural assets while preserving their intrinsic value. Urban corridor and riverside development projects in Addis Ababa, extending from Bole International Airport, have significantly transformed the capital's landscape, creating more attractive public spaces and expanding the city's appeal as a leisure and tourism destination.
International visitors from Belgium, Italy and Germany interviewed by the Ethiopian News Agency praised the pace of transformation, citing improvements in cleanliness, safety, hotel services and public infrastructure. The National Museum, Entoto Park and the city's revitalised riverbanks were among the highlights mentioned. Addis Ababa, already the seat of the African Union and a major diplomatic hub, is increasingly positioning itself as a destination in its own right rather than simply a transit point. Ethiopia is also developing systems to modernise the utilisation of its natural and cultural assets, with the broader aim of transforming tourism into a driver of economic growth, job creation and community development while strengthening the country's international profile.
Source: Ethiopian News Agency
