Ethiopia is overhauling its tourism policy and expanding destinations to unlock its vast potential and significantly boost revenue, the Ministry of Tourism has announced. The government aims to invest in infrastructure and remove restrictive policies to position the country as a leading global tourism destination.
The revised policy seeks to tap into underexplored opportunities and transform Ethiopia’s tourism landscape. Despite recent growth in visitor numbers and revenue, inadequate infrastructure continues to limit Ethiopia’s share of the global tourism market. A 2023 International Congress and Convention Association report noted that Ethiopia, while ranking as the third-most diplomatic country globally, struggles to attract conference attendees and other tourists.
With a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, Ethiopia is advancing projects like Beynouna Village near Metehara, recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Describing it as a symbol of tourism growth, Abiy expressed optimism about future visitor increases, despite current modest numbers.
World Bank Country Director Maryam Slim praised Ethiopia’s progress, particularly infrastructure enhancements in Addis Ababa, which are bolstering tourism and local economies. Beynouna Village exemplifies this impact, generating government revenue and supporting local cattle breeding and hospitality businesses.
Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa emphasized the government’s commitment to making Ethiopia one of the busiest tourist destinations, with Addis Ababa emerging as a hub for conference tourism. State Minister Sileshi Girma highlighted agricultural tourism as a growing segment, supported by the revised policy.
Projections from the Ministry of Tourism indicate that tourism will play a significant role in Ethiopia’s economy in the coming years. The UN World Tourism Organization’s 2024 outlook predicts a surge in tourist arrivals to Ethiopia and other African nations, underscoring a promising future.
Ethiopia’s strategic focus on policy reforms, infrastructure development, and innovative projects demonstrates its ambition to transform the sector into a cornerstone of economic growth.
