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ETOA Honors the Memory of Toni Espadas in a Touching Farewell Ceremony

Join us as we pay tribute and bid farewell to our esteemed friend and colleague, Mr. Toni Espadas – a dedicated professional whose contributions significantly impacted the Ethiopian tourism industry. Experience the solemn and touching ceremony held in his honor, as we honor his enduring legacy and profound love for Ethiopia.

Home news ETOA Honors the Memory of Toni Espadas in a Touching Farewell Ceremony

ETOA Honors the Memory of Toni Espadas in a Touching Farewell Ceremony

By ETOA
May 28, 2024
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On May 24, 2024, esteemed guests gathered to honor and bid farewell to our dear friend and colleague, Toni Espadas, in a solemn ceremony that mirrored the profound respect and admiration held for him. Tragically, Toni was killed on May 21, 2024, in an accident in the south of Ethiopia—a loss that has deeply shaken the entire tourism community.

Toni Espadas was a dedicated professional in the tourism industry, cherished by the Ethiopian Tour Operators Association (ETOA), with his company Rift Valley Expeditions being a valued member. His contributions significantly impacted Ethiopian tourism, fostering strong relationships, and promoting Ethiopia's beauty and culture to the world.

The ceremony was attended by his beloved wife, Irden Cordon, co-founder of Rift Valley Expeditions; his childhood friend, Rafa Martinez; his brother, Victor Espadas; the Honorable Ambassador of Spain, Guillermo Lopez; State Ministers of the Ethiopian Tourism Ministry, Seleshi Girma and Lensa (Ayda) Mekonnen; representatives from the Ethiopian Ministry of Tourism, Ethiopian Airlines, and Addis Ababa Hilton Hotel; staff and families of Rift Valley Expeditions Ethiopia; and members of ETOA and the Ethiopian Tour Guides’ Association.

The event was graciously organized and facilitated by ETOA, with President Fitsum Gezahegne Lakew delivering an opening speech that highlighted Toni's immense contributions to the tourism industry, his enduring legacy, and his deep love for Ethiopia, offering comfort and condolences to his family and friends.

In his speech, the ETOA president emphasized Toni's unwavering dedication, his passion for promoting Ethiopian tourism, and the strong relationships he built throughout his career. As everyone bid farewell to Toni, they were reminded of the profound impact he had on the community and the strong bonds he fostered. His legacy will continue to inspire the tourism industry as it moves forward.

Speakers, including his wife, the Spanish Ambassador, Ato Seleshi, Ato Mehari, and other invited guests from the tour operators, spoke with tears and deep sobs, unable to control their heartfelt emotions and love.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. May he rest in peace, knowing that his contributions will always be remembered and cherished.

ETOA extends its deepest appreciation to those who attended this valuable memorial service.