From Vision to Venue: How Strategic Projects Are Driving Conference Tourism in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, July 8, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s hotel industry is experiencing a resurgence, thanks to the government’s long-term vision of positioning the capital as a continental hub for conference tourism.

Aster Solomon, President of the Addis Ababa Hotel Owners Association, told Fana Digital that the government’s commitment to large-scale infrastructure projects has transformed Addis Ababa into an increasingly attractive venue for global gatherings.

She pointed to flagship developments such as the Adwa Victory Memorial and the Addis International Convention Center, describing them as landmark responses to years of demand for world-class conference destinations.

“The government’s investments have created a platform that not only brings international events to Addis Ababa but also enables visitors to explore beyond the meeting rooms,” Ms. Aster said.

She added that the development of urban corridors and supporting infrastructure has helped extend tourist activity throughout the city.

According to her, these efforts have revitalized a hotel sector that had struggled with stagnation due to factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

The revitalization has triggered renewed investor confidence, new hotel developments, and job creation.

She emphasized that for Ethiopia to maintain momentum in this sector, it must continue expanding conference facilities, modernizing infrastructure, and investing in human capital to meet rising service expectations.

Projecting continued growth, the association president encouraged hospitality businesses to enhance their capacity and competitiveness.

She also called on the government to sustain its support through financing schemes and tax exemptions on imported hospitality equipment.