Conference Participants Praise Addis Ababa’s Hospitality, Urban Transformation

Addis Ababa, July 21, 2026 (ENA) — International delegates attending various conferences in Addis Ababa this week have praised the warm hospitality of the Ethiopian capital, its rich cultural heritage, and its rapid urban transformation.

Participants noted that the city's welcoming atmosphere and visible development changed their perceptions of Ethiopia, offering memorable experiences that extended well beyond the conference halls into valuable opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, and tourism.

They told ENA that conference schedules often allow time to explore Addis Ababa's museums, historic landmarks, and nearby attractions, giving them a deeper appreciation of Ethiopia's history, culture, and ongoing transformation.

For many returning visitors, Ethiopia's hospitality remains one of the country's defining qualities.

"This is my second time coming to Ethiopia," said Obong Moses, Assistant Commissioner for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) at Uganda's Ministry of Education and Sports, who attended the Innovating Education in Africa Expo 2026. "One thing I've learned is that the people are really welcoming. They really receive visitors."

Moses also highlighted the professional lessons he gained during the visit.

"I've seen that the TVET system in Ethiopia is more advanced than the one we have in Uganda. This is one thing I can share with you," he said.

"The people are very, very kind. I think it feels like home rather than a different country," said Alshimaa Elbahrawy, Co-Founder of Deaf Gain, an Egyptian social enterprise and edtech platform, who also participated in the Innovating Education in Africa Expo 2026.

"The special thing I found here is the museum and how it presents the country's history from ancient times to the modern era. People here are open to different cultures and help visitors from around the world learn about Ethiopian culture."

Elbahrawy added that a program organized by the African Union further enriched her understanding of Ethiopia by introducing participants to local cuisine, traditions, and cultural heritage.

Beyond the professional engagements, many participants said their cultural experiences left a lasting impression.

"I would like to express my deepest appreciation for this visit, especially meeting the Ethiopian people. They were very friendly and absolutely lovely people," said Professor Ardian Gola, a sociologist participating in the Parliamentary Intelligence Security Forum.

"Their approach toward us was wonderful and very inspiring, motivating us to come again and again to Ethiopia. Ethiopia is a land of origins. The cultural experiences we have had here enrich our spirit and broaden our educational perspective."

Participants said that Addis Ababa's blend of modern infrastructure and traditional heritage makes it an attractive destination for international conferences, enabling visitors to combine professional engagement with cultural exploration.

They also expressed admiration for the city's evolving skyline, expanding green spaces, and well-curated cultural sites, noting that Addis Ababa offers an accessible gateway to experience both Ethiopia's rich history and its ongoing transformation within a short visit.

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