Addis Ababa, July 21, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia is set to further strengthen nature and wildlife conservation efforts to maximize their contribution to tourism sector growth, State Minister of Tourism Endegena Abebe said.
The remarks were made during the 60th anniversary celebration of the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA), attended by President Taye Atske Selassie, former Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, senior government officials, representatives of international organizations and invited guests.
Speaking at the event, Endegena said tourism development is closely linked with the protection of natural resources and wildlife, noting that the Ministry of Tourism is committed to strengthening conservation efforts that support the sector’s sustainable growth.
He highlighted that tourism-focused initiatives launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, including Dine for the Nation, Dine for Sheger and Dine for Generation projects, have opened new chapters for Ethiopia’s tourism sector.
The State Minister said the increased attention given to natural resource conservation in recent years has contributed significantly to the recovery and protection of wildlife species across the country.
He also pointed to the Green Legacy Initiative as a major effort that has enabled the current generation to fulfill its responsibility in protecting and restoring natural resources.
Ethiopia is endowed with diverse wildlife, rare natural resources and remarkable landscapes, making the protection and preservation of these assets a shared responsibility to ensure they are passed on to future generations, he said.
He further noted that the country’s sustained focus on natural resource and wildlife conservation has contributed to expanding forest coverage and advancing environmental protection efforts.
Underscoring the strong connection between tourism growth and environmental conservation, Endegena reaffirmed the Ministry of Tourism’s commitment to intensifying efforts aimed at safeguarding Ethiopia’s natural heritage.
Reflecting on the six-decade journey of wildlife conservation in Ethiopia, the State Minister acknowledged that the sector has passed through various challenges and transformations, while expressing appreciation to all individuals and institutions that have contributed to the advancement of conservation and wildlife protection efforts.