Naol Girma


Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has launched a series of initiatives aimed at transforming the nation into a prominent tourism destination. Among these initiatives are Gebeta Lehager (Dine for Ethiopia), Gebeta Lesheger (Dine for Addis Ababa), and Gebeta Letiwulid (Dine for Generations).

One notable project developed under the Gebeta Lehager initiative is the Wanchi ecotourism project, which seeks to establish top-tier infrastructure and amenities for visitors, allowing them to appreciate the stunning natural beauty of Crater Lake Wanchi and the authentic culture of the local communities.

Engineer Birhanu Tesfaye, the infrastructural project manager for Wanchi, highlighted that the visitor experience begins at the ticket office, which is complemented by a parking facility capable of accommodating approximately 250 tour buses simultaneously.

To mitigate environmental impact, private vehicles are prohibited from entering the site. Instead, alternative modes of transportation, including electric vehicles, bicycles, and horses, are available.

For tourists interested in visiting local farmers' homes, arrangements can be made for ticket purchases and accommodations, along with details regarding the specific farmer who will host them.

The facility includes various rooms, one of which is the exhibition center. This center features images and information highlighting Wanchi's remarkable tourist attractions. It serves as a resource for visitors to gather comprehensive details before they explore the breathtaking natural landscapes and authentic cultural experiences. Adjacent to the exhibition center is the CCTV room.

Birhanu emphasizes that Wanchi is monitored by security cameras. In the event that a tourist encounters any issues, it is straightforward to observe the situation and provide assistance.

"The server operates around the clock. If any problems arise, a call will be placed from this room, and patrolling guards will respond promptly to address the situation.

Therefore, tourists can rest assured that their safety is assured," he states. Additionally, there is a bank available to ensure that tourists do not encounter any financial difficulties.

Furthermore, there exists a restaurant operated by local youths residing in the vicinity. This initiative has provided numerous opportunities for these young individuals, with the restaurant being one of its advantages. As stated by the project manager, the establishment offers a variety of cultural dishes.

In discussing the elements that classify the Wanchi project as an ecotourism initiative, Birhanu remarks, “Every aspect of the design and construction has been mindful of preserving culture, community traditions, and the natural environment. This commitment renders the project eco-friendly. The shades or Tekuls within the lodges are constructed in accordance with the community's traditional housing styles, while the interiors are equipped with modern amenities. Conversely, the developments on the site are intentionally subtle, as we cannot create structures that overshadow nature. The allure of this location lies in its natural beauty, which is sufficient for enjoyment without the need for excessive modern enhancements.”

The Wanchi eco-lodge is also equipped with conference halls featuring VIP rooms, advanced sound and heating systems, and comfortable seating arrangements. In the future, it is anticipated that this venue will become a significant hub for conference tourism in Ethiopia.

At the summit of Wanchi, there is a cafeteria named Liben, which honors one of the Oromo tribes in the area. This location offers a stunning panoramic view of Wanchi. Additionally, local youths have found employment opportunities here, as they are responsible for its operation.

Birhanu emphasizes, “The inception of this project was rooted in the goal of benefiting local communities, and this vision has now been realized. The youths are reaping the rewards of these initiatives.”

Goro Cultural House is a notable establishment located at the Wanchi site, named after its geographical location. This cultural venue offers tourists the opportunity to savor traditional dishes and features a shop where visitors can purchase cultural souvenirs and apparel.

Additionally, it boasts an amphitheater capable of accommodating at least three hundred guests, making it an ideal venue for outdoor events. The Goro location also provides a unique vantage point for witnessing breathtaking sunsets, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Wanchi is rich in natural and cultural attractions; however, it has faced years of neglect from various governmental administrations.

A significant initiative by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has been the development of infrastructure in numerous promising tourist destinations across the country. Consequently, Wanchi has garnered the Premier's focus.

Approximately five years ago, Wanchi was characterized by its untamed beauty, lacking proper roads, electricity, and telecommunications.

Today, the situation has transformed dramatically. The ecotourism project has revitalized the area, leading to the construction of roads, the provision of electricity, and the introduction of 4G telecommunications services.

With these advancements in infrastructure and the establishment of lodges, the picturesque mountainous terrain, dense forests, and crater lake of Wanchi are poised to attract an increasing number of tourists in the future.

Furthermore, it has the potential to emerge as a significant center for Retreats, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) tourism.

According to the Visit Oromia Initiative, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism in Ethiopia presents a promising avenue for the nation's economic and cultural growth. The increasing global demand for MICE tourism positions Ethiopia, with its rich history, diverse cultures, and captivating landscapes, as a prime destination for such events.

The Oromia Region, renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, serves as an ideal location for MICE tourism.

The region boasts numerous historical sites, scenic landscapes, and modern facilities, making it an attractive choice for international conferences, corporate meetings, incentive travel, and large-scale events.

Furthermore, the Gebeta Lehager Initiative’s efforts to develop infrastructure for the country’s hidden gems extend beyond Wanchi.

The initiative encompasses the Gorgora site in the Amhara Region and the Chebera Elephant Paw Lodge as part of the Koyisha project. These projects were recently inaugurated by the Prime Minister.