SNNPR State obtains 157 million Birr from tourism

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia -Mango and Netchsar National Parks, Tiya Site, Lower Valley of the Omo, Konso Cultural Landscape, Arba Minch Crocodile Ranch and the Ajora Fountain of Wolaita  brought in 600,500 tourists to Southern Nations, Nationalities and People’s Region (SNNPR) , which raked in 157 million birr in the 2004 E.C., the state culture and tourism bureau said.

State government communication affairs work process owner, Negatua Mathewos credits training tour operators and developing infrastructure with attracting more tourists.

Bureau Head Zerihun Zewdie said the number of tourists, who visited religious, natural, cultural and historical sites in the state was 64 per cent more than the same period the previous year.

The head said the revenue has also increased by over 54 per cent compared to that of the previous year.

Over 589,900 of the tourists are Ethiopians while the rest are from Europe, USA and other parts of the world, he said.

Nine of Ethiopia’s heritages are inscribed by UNESCO as world heritage sites.

Source: The Ethiopian Herald