Wonchi-Dendi ecotourism project boosting economic capacity of local residents

Addis Ababa, January 11, 2024 (FBC) – The Wonchi-Dendi integrated ecotourism project has opened a significant chapter in increasing the economic capacity of the local residents beyond creating pleasant stay for visitors, Defense Minister and Coordinator of the project Abrham Belay said.

Wonchi-Dendi is one of the projects executed under the “Dine for Nation” initiative.

The construction of the Wenchi-Dendi ecotourism project has brought plenty of benefits for the country and the local community as the project designed to protect and care for the natural resources of the area is also a demonstration of nation building.

Coordinator of the Wonchi-Dendi Project and Defense Minister Abrham said the project was built according to the direction of the government set to develop tourist resources and attraction sites to make them accessible to foreign and local visitors.

The Wonchi-Dendi ecotourism site is built between the lakes of Wonchi and Dendi that are located 13 kilometers apart, he said, noting that the landscape around the two lakes and the surrounding area is very attractive and conducive for sports and entertainment.

According to him, road, telecom and electricity infrastructures built for the project are enhancing the economic capacity of local residents beyond creating conducive stay for visitors.

In particular, the project coordinator pointed out that the road infrastructure which did not exist  has created opportunity for visitors to easily travel to the tourist destinations in the most convenient direction.

The natural spa has a great benefit for health, in addition to its recreation purpose, Abrham noted, adding that the concept of ​​ecotourism is to build the local culture in harmony with nature.

The project was built taking into consideration the environment and the surrounding communities.

Accordingly, it has improved the livelihood of about 10,000 residents by creating job opportunities, he revealed.

Currently, the residents are ready to benefit from the project by getting organized under 22 associations and taking training.

Highlighting further the preparations made to enable the residents benefit from guiding, boating, sales, and hospitality as well as rent, the project coordinator said the activities carried out to integrate the project with the communities have brought successful change.

Accordingly, making the communities part of the project without creating displacement will enable them to manage and protect the resources with the sense of ownership.

Houses of 13 farmers, which were built in the area, are readied to serve as guest houses for tourists, ENA reported.

Recall that the Wonchi-Dendi Project was an initiative of PM Abiy Ahmed launched in 2021.