Getnet Yigzaw Nigussie, hailing from Gondar, Ethiopia, has established himself as a prominent figure in tourism management, heritage conservation, history, and nature interpretation. His academic journey began at Princess Tenagnework Primary School, later renamed “Hibret” during the Derg regime, where he completed grades 1 to 6. He then continued his education at Fasiledes Secondary School, completing grades 7 to 12. In 1983, after graduating from high school, Getnet made the pivotal decision to pursue further studies in Eastern Europe, specifically in Bulgaria.
Initially focusing on language studies, Getnet later specialized in Factory Electrical Engineering at General Ivan Vinaro’s marine garage and shipyard in Burgas, a city known for its tourism and proximity to the Black Sea. Despite facing challenges such as drought and famine, he persevered in Bulgaria for three and a half years before returning home without completing his degree.
Upon his return to Ethiopia, Getnet became a key figure in tourism management and heritage conservation. His notable achievements include creating documentary films that have received recognition both nationally and internationally. One standout film is “Ethiopia, Africa’s First Civilization,” which has been showcased on various media platforms, including Ethiopian Radio and Television and Fana Radio and Television, highlighting the impact of his initiatives.
Through collaborations with esteemed international media outlets such as the BBC, Deutsche Welle, VOA, and DSTV, Getnet has played a crucial role in producing informative documentaries and travel guides. His efforts in several international tourism trade fairs, exhibitions and conferences have significantly contributed to promoting Ethiopia’s cultural and natural heritage while spotlighting its historical importance.
After immersing himself in the tourism sector in Addis Ababa, Getnet demonstrated a strong commitment to education. He completed multiple training programs and became the first certified tourist guide in Ethiopia. He furthered his education by completing a Tourism and Travel Agent course at Cambridge Tutorial College in London, where he excelled in management training and earned a silver diploma. As the inaugural student from the University of Gondar, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in tourism management and later pursued a second degree in Tourism and Heritage Management from the same institution.
Beginning his career as a tour guide at the renowned Fasiledas in Gondar, Getnet embraced the crucial task of overseeing international heritage sites, including those recognized by UNESCO. His responsibilities included ensuring their ongoing development, safeguarding, and restoration—a task he has admirably fulfilled. In Ethiopia, where numerous heritage sites were identified and management strategies were crafted in the 1970s, Getnet has played an instrumental role in their preservation.
During a conference in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2016, Getnet actively participated in the Africa 2009 campaign to compile a comprehensive Outstanding Universal Value Statement (OUVS) for heritage sites across Africa—an area that lacked sufficient international documentation. His unwavering dedication was pivotal in devising and finalizing a vital management plan essential for preserving these historical marvels.
After serving as the manager of the Gondar World Heritage site and acting as a UNESCO focal person, Getnet relocated to Addis Ababa for personal reasons. He initially took on roles in tourism facilitation before advancing to Deputy Head and later becoming the Director of Public and International Relations at an Ethiopian tourism organization and he serves as an advisor to the Director General of Tourism Ethiopia, continuing his influential work in the field.
Getnet Yigzaw Nigussie is a highly respected Tourism and Heritage Management Specialist with 36 years of extensive experience in heritage conservation, sustainable tourism, and international cooperation. Throughout his career, Getnet has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing Ethiopian World Heritage Sites and has played a pivotal role in representing Ethiopia at high-level global forums.
As the Lead CEO of the Ethiopia Convention Bureau, Getnet has been instrumental in promoting Ethiopia as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) as well as cultural tourism. His strategic vision and dedication have significantly contributed to elevating Ethiopia’s profile on the international tourism stage.
After a lifetime of dedicated service and numerous achievements in government roles, Getnet is set to retire on October 1, 2025. His legacy includes not only the successful management of heritage sites but also the establishment of frameworks for sustainable tourism that benefit both local communities and the environment. Getnet’s commitment to preserving Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage and fostering international collaboration will leave a lasting impact on the country’s tourism landscape.
