Haramaya University Discusses Tourism Destination Development in Eastern Ethiopia with the Oromia Tourism Commission
Haramaya University today held a consultative meeting with the Oromia Tourism Commission to explore collaborative frameworks aimed at enhancing the economic potential of tourism destinations in Eastern Ethiopia and maximizing their contribution to national growth.
The high-level discussion was attended by Dr. Yisihak Yousuf, Vice President for Research and Community Engagement at Haramaya University; Professor Mengistu Urge, Vice President for Academic Affairs; and Mrs. Lelise Neme, Commissioner of the Oromia Tourism Commission.
During the meeting, Dr. Yisihak Yousuf noted that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) had previously been signed with the Commission to expand and enhance tourist destinations in the eastern part of the country. However, he highlighted that the progress made so far has not met expectations, making this discussion essential for translating the existing agreement into concrete action.
Dr. Yisihak revealed that a digital mapping project is currently underway to modernize tourism sites using technology. He added that practical work will soon commence to make these locations more conducive for study and research, as well as to compile tangible data. Furthermore, he affirmed the university’s readiness to coordinate with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is developed to attract more visitors to these sites.
Professor Mengistu Urge emphasized the importance of leveraging Haramaya University’s strong track record of partnership with various Oromia regional bureaus to achieve substantial progress in the tourism sector. He stressed the need for specific attention to be given to scientifically studying, documenting, and marketing these tourist attractions.
Commissioner Lelise Neme acknowledged the prior agreement with the university and assured that tangible and practical steps would be taken moving forward to accelerate the growth of the tourism sector. She also pointed out that cities and tourist destinations must be clean, sanitary, and appealing to visitors. The Commissioner expressed the Commission’s strong commitment to collaborating with Haramaya University to document tourist attractions and to build a comprehensive knowledge framework that allows tourists to easily access information.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to working closely in developing innovative tourism strategies that contribute to conservation, economic growth, and the strengthening of efforts to position the region as a leading destination for sustainable and ecocultural tourism.
Reporter: Aweke Ayalneh
Photographers: Behailu Girma and Tewodros Lishan
Public & International Relations
Tags: academic partnership, destination development, Eastern Ethiopia tourism, Ethiopia travel, Haramaya University, Oromia region, Oromia Tourism Commission, regional collaboration, sustainable tourism, tourism development
