ASELLA - Driven by its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural legacy, and community spirit, Asella stands poised to emerge as a premier tourism and investment destination, according to Mayor Sime Tsegaye.
In an exclusive interview with The Ethiopian Herald, Mayor Sime Tsegaye revealed the remarkable developments taking place in Asella, a town rich in untapped tourism potential.
Learning from the Addis Ababa Corridor Development Initiative, Asella is undergoing a significant transformation, with a focus on infrastructure and community engagement.
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The Mayor shared that the town has successfully constructed 23 kilometers of the planned 25-kilometer corridordevelopment, thanks to the collective effort of residents and contributions from both the public and private sectors.
A substantial investment of 290 million Birr has been allocated, with the government covering the remaining costs, he mentioned.
Mayor Sime highlighted the impressive results of urban agriculture initiatives, noting that many residents, who have migrated from rural areas, bring valuable agricultural experience with them.
Asella has seen exemplary expansion in urban farming, involving institutions such as Kenenisa Polytechnic University and local schools, he said, adding that the community has actively participated in cultivating crops multiple times a year, bolstering food security.
Asella's natural beauty is further enhanced by its rich greenery. The town has planted 1.6 million trees in a single day, with participation from various sectors, including banking and healthcare. This commitment to environmental sustainability is positioning Asella as a prime tourist destination, complemented by the establishment of parks such as Burkitu and Kombolcha, Sime indicated.
Geographically blessed with five major rivers and nestled below the Chilalo Mountains, Asella offers unique opportunities for eco-tourism. The Mayor emphasized plans to connect these mountains with nearby Dembel and Dosha Lakes to amplify the town's tourism potential.
Moreover, Asella is home to renowned athletes such as Haile Gebrselassie, Derartu Tulu, and Kenenisa Bekele, who are encouraged to invest in their hometown. Sime believes that the involvement of the athleteswill attract both foreign and local investors, capitalizing on Asella's diverse climate and resources.
The town is also home to the Asella Malt Factory, a key player in Ethiopia's beverage industry, and Chilalo Food Complex, which supports local investments.
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In addition to its economic prospects, Asella boasts a peaceful and diverse community, fostering a culture of harmony and collaboration. Known for its high-quality wheat and barley products, the town welcomes both foreign and local investors with open arms, eager to share its rich heritage and vibrant future.
