Ethiopia rides on cultural ties to tap regional tourism market

Mary Abreri prepares Ethiopian coffee during the Ethiopia Tourism Promotion Event at the Ethiopian Embassy in Nairobi on July 23, 2026.

Photo credit: Evans Habil | Nation Media Group

Ethiopia is banking on growing cultural and business ties with neighbouring Kenya to expand its tourism market, as Addis Ababa steps up efforts to attract more regional travellers through visa-free entry, direct flights and a campaign showcasing its diverse attractions.

First, officials invited tourism stakeholders from Kenya to contribute ideas. Now the officials themselves are travelling to promote sites in Ethiopia, hoping to attract enthusiasts to visit.