By our staff reporter
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently met with Marriott International Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Anthony Capuano to discuss the company’s sustained commitment to enhancing Ethiopia’s hospitality and travel sector. This meeting highlighted Marriott’s strategic plans to expand its operations within the country, a move anticipated to generate hundreds of new jobs and contribute to Ethiopia’s continued economic development.
During the meeting, Capuano shared Marriott’s growth plans in Ethiopia, which include the anticipated addition of nine properties. These additions are expected to further enhance the company’s footprint in Ethiopia where it currently has a portfolio of two properties with more than 400 rooms.
With a history of 26 years in Ethiopia, Marriott has established a solid foothold in the market with the Sheraton Addis, a Luxury Collection Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments, catering to both leisure and business travelers in Addis Ababa.
According to Capuano, the company’s anticipated addition of nine hotels in Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, Hawassa, Jimma, and Mekelle is expected to play a pivotal role in fueling economic growth, supporting local employment, and attracting travellers to the region.
“Ethiopia stands out as a premier destination with its rich culture, heritage, natural landscapes, diverse travel experiences, and genuine hospitality,” said Capuano. “Marriott is honored to contribute to the ongoing growth and diversification of Ethiopia’s travel sector. Through our long-term presence and growth plans across the country, we aim to help more international guests experience Ethiopia’s unique natural beauty, supporting local economies and employment opportunities.”
The company’s hotels and associates in Ethiopia, as well as their East African Business Council, continues to support communities and philanthropic causes through donations and volunteering efforts. The Sheraton Addis, a Luxury Collection Hotel has been providing students at Edget Behibret Primary School with stationery and school supplies since 2004. The hotel also supports several other charitable organisations that assist ill and disadvantaged youth in Addis Ababa.
