Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The 1st National Hotel and Tourism Conference kicked off here today.

Chief Administrators of regional states, ministers, actors in the tourism industry, and other government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Demeke Mekonnen, are in attendance of the meeting.

In his opening remark, Demeke called for improved services and infrastructure to increase Ethiopia’s competitiveness in the tourism industry.

He said the government is committed to work closely with investors to address the challenges facing the industry.

Minister of Culture and Tourism, Dr. Hirut Kassaw for her part stated the reasons why Ethiopia is not benefiting enough from its tourism potential.

According to her, lack of service quality and standard tourist destination facilities are some of the challenges and reasons affecting the competitiveness of Ethiopia’s tourism industry.

Dr. Hirut stated  the government has attached due emphasis to the sector and is working in partnership with the community and stakeholders to bring about tangible results and boost the income from the hospitality industry.

According to the Ministry of Culture, the main objective of conference is to promote Ethiopia’s tourism industry and encourage investors.

Moreover, it is aimed at returning the tourism industry, which is affected by the instability in some parts of the country, back again to normalcy, it said.

The Ministry also announced plans to hold the conference each year.