Arba Minch Emerges as Ethiopia’s Next Big Conference and Eco-Tourism Destination
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has praised the swift advancement of development projects in Arba Minch, signaling the southern city’s rise as a premier hub for conferences and tourism in Ethiopia. Following a recent visit, the Prime Minister shared on social media his admiration for Arba Minch’s natural beauty and the transformative impact of the government’s 'Dine for Generations' initiative, a flagship program designed to modernize urban infrastructure, stimulate tourism, and rejuvenate secondary cities across the country.
Central to this transformation is the Kulfo Riverside development, which Abiy described as a “remarkable addition” that skillfully blends Arba Minch’s rich natural and cultural heritage with contemporary amenities. This riverside project not only beautifies the cityscape but also creates inviting spaces for recreation and cultural engagement, enhancing the city’s appeal to both visitors and residents. Alongside this, the expansion of road corridors and other infrastructure improvements around Arba Minch have made significant strides since the Prime Minister’s last assessment, improving accessibility and connectivity within the region.
Abiy also highlighted the progress made at the Arbaminch Forest, where newly constructed access routes now link visitors directly to the surrounding mountains, waterways, and verdant green spaces. These enhancements are expected to unlock fresh opportunities for eco-tourism, encouraging sustainable exploration of the area’s unique biodiversity while fostering local economic development through increased visitor spending and job creation.
Reflecting on these developments, the Prime Minister emphasized that similar projects underway in other Ethiopian cities beyond Addis Ababa demonstrate the country’s vast untapped potential. He underscored the importance of aligned efforts, stating that Ethiopia can achieve “great collective results” by harnessing the strengths of its diverse urban centers.
Since its launch in 2020, the Dine for Generations initiative has aimed to transform cities like Arba Minch, Jimma, and Bale into modern urban centers that serve as engines of tourism, investment, and cultural promotion. This strategic focus on secondary cities is part of Ethiopia’s broader vision to decentralize economic growth and diversify its tourism offerings beyond the capital.
Arba Minch’s natural assets are among its greatest draws. Known for its stunning twin lakes, lush forests, and proximity to the renowned Nechisar National Park, the city has long been celebrated as one of Ethiopia’s most scenic destinations. The ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including new conference facilities and improved transport links, are positioning Arba Minch to host large-scale events and attract a growing number of both domestic and international tourists.
For the African tourism sector, Arba Minch’s evolution offers a compelling example of how targeted investment in infrastructure and sustainable development can unlock the potential of secondary cities. The integration of natural beauty with modern amenities creates a unique proposition for conference organizers, leisure travelers, and eco-tourists alike. As Ethiopia continues to invest in these urban centers, Arba Minch stands out as a flagship destination that could reshape the country’s tourism landscape and contribute significantly to regional economic growth.
