*This Feature is published in courtesy of the Embassy of Ethiopia in Pakistan. Authored by the ๐๐ฑ๐ฆ๐ค๐ช๐ข๐ญ ๐๐ฏ๐ท๐ฐ๐บ ๐ข๐ฏ๐ฅ ๐๐ฎ๐ฃ๐ข๐ด๐ด๐ข๐ฅ๐ฐ๐ณ ๐๐น๐ต๐ณ๐ข๐ฐ๐ณ๐ฅ๐ช๐ฏ๐ข๐ณ๐บ of Ethiopia to Pakistan, Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula.
Ethiopia, long known as the Cradle of Humanity, is rising as a unique global tourism destinationโinviting the world to explore its ancient roots, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant culture. Among its many treasures, Wanchi, a breathtaking eco-tourism site in the Oromia region, stands out as a symbol of Ethiopiaโs new tourism vision: one that blends natural beauty, community participation, and sustainable development.
At the heart of this transformation is Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, whose nationwide tourism initiativesโincluding โDine for Nationโ (launched in 2020) and โDine for Generationโ (in 2023)โhave turned tourism into a central pillar of Ethiopiaโs development agenda. These programs were designed not only to promote economic growth but to highlight Ethiopiaโs cultural identity, ecological richness, and historic value on the world stage.
The โDine for Nationโ project introduced three major tourism development zones: Gorgora in the Amhara region, Koysha and Halala Kella in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoplesโ Region, and Wanchi in Oromia.
Let me take this opportunity to introduce the people of Pakistan the Wanchi that has attracted broad domestic financial support and gained international recognition as a standout model for African eco-tourism.
Wanchiโs setting is nothing short of spectacular. Located within Oromia National Regional State, the area thrives on agriculture and tourism. With its lush greenery, crater lake, and highland scenery, Wanchi delivers an experience that refreshes both body and spirit. It is a place where peace meets natural majesty, offering a deep sense of serenity to all who visit.
In 2021, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) officially recognized Wanchi as one of the Best Tourism Villages in the world, praising its exceptional environmental stewardship, preservation of local culture, and community-led development. This recognition marked a high point in Ethiopiaโs tourism revivalโand confirmed that rural destinations like Wanchi can lead Africaโs tourism narrative.
A short visit to Wanchi offers more than visual beautyโit is a deep cultural and emotional journey. Managed by Ethiopian Skylight-IJA Developers, and supported by the Wanchi Eco-Tourism Association (WETA), the region combines traditional hospitality with modern comfort. Tourists experience warm community engagement, locally sourced food, and sustainable services that reflect the spirit of the region.
During a recent visit, I had the honour of accompanying H.E. Hon. Samakab Abdikadir, Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, to Wanchi. Our journey began from Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, through scenic green corridors shaped by the Green Legacy Initiativeโone of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmedโs landmark environmental programs. Along the route, we saw not only natural beauty, but the tangible results of Ethiopiaโs national reform planโbetter infrastructure, sustainable development, and a shared sense of national pride.
The Green Legacy Initiative has transformed both urban and rural landscapes. Billions of trees have been planted, greening the roadsides and farmlands from Addis Ababa to remote areas like Wanchi. These efforts have contributed to a cleaner environment, enhanced biodiversity, and stronger rural economiesโmaking the tourism experience both sustainable and enriching.
Wanchi is not an isolated success. Ethiopia is filled with tourism jewels waiting to be explored. From the mighty Blue Nile Fallsโknown as Tis Abay or Tis Issat (โSmoke of Fireโ)โto the serene Lake Tana, Ethiopiaโs waterscapes are legendary. Lake Tana, the countryโs largest lake and source of the Blue Nile, is home to ancient monasteries and religious manuscripts, adding a spiritual and historical dimension to its natural beauty.
The country is also home to several other spectacular waterfalls, including Ajecho, Sokei, Awash, and Barta. Barta Falls, located in the Kaffa regionโglobally known as the birthplace of coffeeโis especially symbolic. The name โcoffeeโ itself originates from โKaffa,โ and in Ethiopia, coffee is more than a drinkโit is a way of life and a tool of diplomacy. The region hosts a National Coffee Museum and a growing coffee research hub, blending tourism with agriculture and education.
Ethiopiaโs tourism offerings go far beyond nature. As the site of major paleoanthropological discoveries, the country has earned the title โLand of Originsโ. Visitors from around the globe come to see the very places where the earliest human ancestors once walked. Few destinations can claim such a powerful narrative that ties humanity together.
The governmentโs investment in these diverse tourism sectors has been deliberate and strategic. Under the Dine for Generation program, each of Ethiopiaโs federal constituencies has been encouraged to develop tourism projects that highlight local traditions and natural features. This local-global approach ensures inclusivity and promotes Ethiopiaโs soft power globally.
The Prime Ministerโs leadership has not only supported these projects financially and politicallyโit has also leveraged Ethiopiaโs diplomatic strength, with embassies and ambassadors playing a key role in promoting the countryโs tourism potential abroad. As an envoy, I consider it both a responsibility and a privilege to help showcase Ethiopiaโs wealth of attractions to the world.
Wanchi, in this national picture, is more than just a beautiful destinationโit is a symbol of what Ethiopia can achieve. It combines community-driven development, cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and modern tourism infrastructure. It demonstrates how Africa can offer global-standard tourism rooted in authenticity.
My visit to Wanchi left a lasting impression. More than just a travel experience, it was a reminder of Ethiopiaโs evolving identity and its aspirations for the future. As Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed explains in his philosophical work โGeneration Medemerโ, Ethiopiaโs journey is about collective growth, unity, and progress rooted in shared values.
Today, Ethiopia stands ready to welcome the worldโnot just to admire its beauty, but to understand its soul. To walk through Ethiopia is to walk through human history, to witness renewal, and to participate in a vision that looks both to the past and the future.
Wanchiโs glory awaits, and so does the story of Ethiopia!
Established in December 2008, The Diplomatic Insight is Pakistanโs premier diplomacy and foreign affairs magazine, available in both digital and print formats.
