The US has launched an ecotourism program in Ethiopia. On Wednesday APA-Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) and The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched an ecotourism program which will contribute to the development of Ethiopia’s unique and potentially lucrative ecotourism sector. The five-year program will help to protect natural resources and cultural heritage sites and improve the livelihoods and quality of life of local communities.
“There is no time to waste for Ethiopia to take advantage of its vast tourism potential. The time is now to prioritize Ethiopia’s travel and tourism industry, to improve tourism and ICT infrastructures, and to protect the nation’s natural resources.” said US ambassador to Ethiopia Donald Yamamoto.
The program is part of the USAID Global Sustainable Tourism Alliance, which is using tourism development to reduce poverty, stimulate economic growth, promote natural resource stewardship, and conserve biodiversity.
In Ethiopia, the Alliance will work with local stakeholders to design a program that will create job opportunities, respect social-cultural values and heritage, and protect the environment at the same time.
