Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed referred to tourism as a fresh driver for Ethiopia's economic development.
As stated by the leader, the nation is reshaping the industry to promote growth by leveraging its abundant natural, historic, and cultural resources.
During an exclusive conversation with the National Broadcasting Company (NBC), the Prime Minister explained that the government's latest strategy is based on the concept of "Tourism: The New Economic Engine."
He further stated that Ethiopia is moving away from merely acknowledging its tourism opportunities toward actively planning for and marketing its tourist attractions.
Prime Minister Abiy also highlighted that grasping the essence of Ethiopia's tourism sector involves separating the nation's vast opportunities from the persistent issues that have hindered the industry from achieving its maximum growth.
Despite having remarkable tourist assets, Ethiopia has seen little recognition and marketing of these sites, with the lack of properly developed locations and additional structural challenges impeding the sector's development, he pointed out.
Ethiopia boasts over 6,000 different types of plants, offering significant potential for scientific study and eco-tourism, he mentioned, noting that the nation is also inhabited by distinctive native animals not seen anywhere else globally, such as the Ethiopian wolf, the Walia ibex, and the Gelada baboon, along with many uncommon bird varieties living within the Awash and Bale regions.
Ethiopia hosts a revered falcon breed that attracts foreign aficionados, though more robust worldwide marketing and commercial connections remain necessary, he noted.
Emphasizing the nation's varied geography, Prime Minister Abiy stated that Ethiopia extends from the top of Mount Ras Dashen, the nation's tallest mountain, down to the Danakil Depression, one of the lowest and most scorching spots on Earth.
He also highlighted Ethiopia's advantageous climate, pointing out that visitors can arrive at the country's cooler highlands within approximately three hours from the intense heat of the Middle East or flee European winters to experience pleasant temperatures.
He stated that tourists can discover the Simien Mountains National Park, tour the ancient fortresses of Gondar, see the island monasteries located on Lake Tana, and appreciate the lakeshore town of Bahir Dar all within one trip.
He further highlighted Ethiopia's deep historical legacy, featuring ancient texts that date between 800 and 900 years old, significant relics, and the church-carved structures of Lalibela, all of which still draw scholars, investigators, and global visitors.
Prime Minister Abiy pointed out the Bale Mountains as an important attraction where tourists can visit volcanic craters filled with water, spot endangered animals, and hike up mountains that rise over 4,300 meters above sea level.
Travelers coming down from the mountains arrive at the Harenna Forest, which is famous for its wide variety of plant and animal life, cascading waterfalls, numerous birds, and the distinctive black-maned lion, whereas the Dinsho region features large national parks and highland African scenery.
The Premier additionally highlighted the Sof Omar Cave complex close to Robe, referring to it as proof of an old and sophisticated society.
As stated by Prime Minister Abiy, the region has long been an epicenter for Islamic education, drawing intellectuals fluent in over 60 languages who came together to share their knowledge. A mosque dating back roughly 800 years and a notable man-made lake continue to be maintained at this location.
He emphasized the importance of the Afar Region as a key site for studying early humans, along with notable features such as the Erta Ale volcano, date palm farms, and the vibrant sulfur pools and salt plains found in the Danakil Depression.
Heading further south, the leader mentioned that tourists can explore the Gamo Highlands near Arba Minch, the customs of the Dorze community, Lakes Chamo and Abaya known for their large crocodiles, and Nechisar National Park, which are all part of an integrated travel path.
The Premier determined that very few nations provide the variety seen in Ethiopia, which features an old past, striking scenery, distinct animals, lively traditions, the legacy of coffee and teff, and historical sites like Adwa—all accessible with one tourism permit.
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