Exchange with Ethiopian Community Based Tourism Initiatives

Ethiopia, a land of ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes, holds hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. But beyond the iconic sights, a new wave of tourism is emerging, one that weaves the rich cultural heritage of local communities into unforgettable Community Based Tourism (CBT) experiences:

Project background

This project is part of the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries (CBI) initiative of the Netherland Enterprise Agency of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. CBI aims to empower Ethiopian CBT initiatives and connect them with European markets. Through targeted coaching and workshops, CBI is lighting the path for sustainable tourism growth that benefits both visitors and local communities.

Destination Ethiopia

Destination Ethiopia boasts unique attractions, from the churches of Lalibela to the Simien Mountains’ breathtaking panoramas. Yet, unlocking the full potential of these treasures requires a shift towards sustainable practices and responsible tourism. This project focuses on building a strong foundation for CBT, a model that empowers local communities to manage and benefit directly from tourism initiatives.

Bridging the Gap between Communities and Travelers

At the heart of this initiative lies connecting tour operators with CBT experiences. CBI fosters dialogue and collaboration between communities, tourism officials, and private operators by hosting workshops and sessions. This exchange visit allows tour operators to understand market expectations and community needs, while communities learn how to tailor their offerings to attract travelers.

Experience Sharing between Uganda-Ethiopia

The project invited Kara-Tunga Co-Founder Theo Vos, to share valuable insights and experiences from Uganda’s northeastern Karamoja sub-region. This knowledge exchange provides practical tips on developing and managing CBT projects, from partnering with communities, benefit sharing, market linkages and building marketable tourism products. By learning from each other, Ethiopia and Uganda can strengthen their CBT landscapes and offer richer experiences to travellers.

By facilitating experience sharing, CBI aspires to enhance the quality of Ethiopian CBT offerings, making them more attractive and competitive in the European market. By achieving these goals, the project sets a precedent for successful CBT development in Ethiopia, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable tourism industry.