Addis Ababa, 9 June 2026 – The Board of Directors of the Ethiopian Tour Operators Association (ETOA) held a productive meeting yesterday with Ato Kumera Wakjira, Director General of the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA), to discuss key issues affecting Ethiopia's wildlife tourism sector and explore areas of stronger collaboration between the two institutions.

The meeting focused on strengthening the longstanding partnership between ETOA and EWCA and identifying practical measures to support the sustainable development of wildlife tourism in Ethiopia.

During the discussions, ETOA emphasized the importance of establishing a closer and more regular working relationship between the private sector and EWCA. Both parties agreed that effective collaboration is essential for promoting Ethiopia's protected areas, improving visitor experiences, and ensuring the long-term conservation of the country's unique wildlife resources.

ETOA also expressed its concerns regarding the current situation of several national parks and protected areas, noting that the condition, accessibility, safety, and management of these destinations directly impact tourism development. The Association highlighted the need for continued efforts to improve infrastructure, visitor services, conservation management, and destination competitiveness.

Another important issue raised during the meeting was the need for greater consistency and predictability in park entrance fees, camping fees, and other tourism-related charges. ETOA requested that any future fee adjustments be communicated to the tourism industry well in advance to enable tour operators to properly plan, cost, and market their products.

The discussion further addressed opportunities and challenges related to tourism concessions within protected areas. ETOA emphasized the importance of creating clear, transparent, and investor-friendly conditions for the development of lodges, campsites, and other tourism facilities inside and around national parks. The Association noted that encouraging responsible private-sector investment is essential for enhancing visitor experiences, creating employment opportunities, generating revenue for conservation, and increasing the attractiveness of Ethiopia's wildlife destinations.

Particular attention was given to strategies for reviving wildlife tourism in Ethiopia. Both parties acknowledged that wildlife tourism has significant untapped potential and discussed ways to improve destination promotion, attract new investments, enhance conservation efforts, and restore the confidence of international tour operators and travelers.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to continue dialogue and cooperation between ETOA and EWCA. Both institutions reaffirmed their shared goal of developing a sustainable, competitive, and conservation-oriented wildlife tourism sector that contributes to Ethiopia's economic growth and environmental protection.

ETOA would like to thank Ato Kumera Wakjira and the management of EWCA for the constructive discussion and their willingness to work closely with the tourism industry to advance Ethiopia's wildlife tourism potential.