Dereje W.

Experience

• Architect Ministry of Tourism, Ethiopia · Full-time Feb 2026 – Present 4 mos Addis Ababa, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Destination Development Expert – Ministry of Tourism
  
  As a Destination Development Expert at the Ministry of Tourism, I was responsible for planning, developing, and enhancing tourism destinations to improve visitor experiences and support sustainable tourism growth. My role involved coordinating tourism infrastructure projects, conducting site assessments, preparing development plans, and collaborating with government agencies, consultants, investors, and local communities.
  
  Key responsibilities included:
  
  Developing and implementing destination development strategies and tourism master plans.
  Coordinating tourism infrastructure projects, including cultural, heritage, and eco-tourism sites.
  Conducting feasibility studies, site evaluations, and project monitoring.
  Preparing technical reports, project proposals, and development guidelines.
  Supporting heritage conservation and tourism product development initiatives.
  Engaging stakeholders and local communities to promote sustainable tourism practices.
  Monitoring project implementation to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and environmental standards.
  
  Key achievements:
  
  Contributed to the development and enhancement of major tourism destinations and community-based tourism projects.
  Participated in heritage conservation and restoration initiatives, including work related to Jimma Aba Jifar Palace.
  Supported tourism infrastructure planning and development that strengthened Ethiopia's tourism sector and visitor experience.