Ethiopia Harnesses Geospatial Tech for Tourism Transformation

In late May 2025, Ethiopia’s Space Science and Geospatial Institute (SSGI) and Oromia Tourism Commission launched a pioneering initiative to leverage geospatial technology for tourism development. By integrating satellite imagery and GIS tools, the project aims to map and promote Ethiopia’s cultural and natural heritage sites, enhancing accessibility and visitor experiences. This initiative supports Ethiopia’s broader tourism revival, which includes the $7.8 billion Abusera International Airport project and hotel expansions like the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel. The effort aligns with sustainable development goals, positioning Ethiopia as a model for using geospatial tech to boost economic growth through tourism. It has drawn praise from organizations like RASCOM for its innovative approach.