Number of visitors to Southern region increase by 140%

The number of visitors conducting a tour in different parts of Southern region has increased by about 140% compared to the figure in 2008, according to Mr. Yohannes Asgedom, head of the Tourism Ministry’s branch in the region.

Mendefera, 12 January 2010 – The number of visitors conducting a tour in different parts of Southern region has increased by about 140% compared to the figure in 2008, according to Mr. Yohannes Asgedom, head of the Tourism Ministry’s branch in the region.

He pointed out that the number of visitors in the region showed a dramatic increase from over 11,000 in 2008, 25,000 in 2009 to about 28,000 respectively last year.

Reports presented at an assessment meeting also indicated that various tour programs were organized to a number of tourism attraction sites with a view to promoting domestic tourism and gathering relevant ideas as regards proper preservation of relics. Study has also been undertaken to identify new historical sites.

Also as part of endeavors to raise the awareness of the society regarding the significance of tourism, a lecture was given to over 7,000 high school students, in addition to providing training to staff members of the Ministry’s branch office in the region.

Mr. Yohannes further explained that study undertaken on the unexplored artifacts, conducting public awareness raising campaign, and encouraging institutions and individuals to visit historical sites are among the work programs for this year.