Ethiopia on Saturday inaugurated the 385-hectare Shabeely Resort in a push to boost tourism and regional development in the country’s Somali Region.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed hosted Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh and Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud at the opening ceremony in Jigjiga.
The launch is part of Ethiopia’s “Dine for Generations” tourism initiative, aimed at boosting regional unity, job creation and economic growth.
The resort includes 51 luxury rooms, three restaurants serving up to 400 guests, cultural venues, high-tech meeting halls, a children’s play area and shaded walkways stretching over 15 kilometers.
Visitors can also explore a fruit park with 10,000 trees and a camel park that celebrates local traditions.
Officials framed the event as a symbol of stability in the Somali Region and a commitment to collaboration in the Horn of Africa, despite wider regional tensions and internal conflicts.
The Prime Minister’s office called Shabeely a flagship project designed to foster community and promote Ethiopia’s cultural and natural wealth.
In a social media post, Abiy described the resort as a blend of modern architecture and ancient traditions.
He said the project reflects the Medemer philosophy, which emphasizes synergy between the government, private sector, the public and nature.
Earlier this month, Abiy also inaugurated the 36.7-hectare Denbi Eco Lodge in Bench Sheko Zone, near Mizan Aman.
It was the first project completed under the “Dine for Generations” initiative and marks a step toward sustainable tourism in the South West Ethiopia Peoples’ Region.
Together, these projects aim to position Ethiopia as a top African destination while turning its natural and cultural assets into lasting economic opportunities.
