Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the Denbi Eco Lodge on Saturday in Bench Sheko Zone, part of the South West Ethiopia Peoples’ Region, as part of a broader effort to promote sustainable tourism and economic development.
Located near Mizan Aman, the 36.7-hectare lodge is the first project under the new “Dine for Generations” initiative, which reflects Abiy’s Medemer philosophy of synergy between government, the private sector, the public and nature.
The lodge was built using locally sourced materials and introduces a timeshare ownership model for Ethiopians. It follows earlier efforts such as “Dine for Sheger” and comes as the country reports a 40 percent rise in international tourist arrivals.
Abiy said the project demonstrates how “local strength” and “shared ownership” can drive development while protecting natural and cultural assets. He emphasized the need to “unravel the rich potential” of Ethiopia for future generations.
Local officials and community members have welcomed the project as a job creator that draws attention to lesser-known destinations while supporting biodiversity. Additional developments are planned under the same framework.
The government views eco-tourism as a strategic sector for growth and aims to replicate the Denbi model in other regions.
