Women Affairs Minister Hirut Delebo said though women are contributing a lot for the development of the industry, their benefit from the sector is still minimal.

The minister made the statement here on Monday while speaking at a symposium organized in connection with the 2007 World Tourism Day.

The theme calls for increased participation and benefit of women from the sector, she said, women can significantly contribute for the development of the nation if they are to benefit from the sector.

The national women’s policy, which underlines the active participation of women in the political, social, economic spheres, is believed to create conducive environment for women to benefit from the overall development of the nation, the minister said.

Ongoing efforts aimed at ensuring the leadership and decision making role of women and raising their participation in poverty reduction and bringing about suitable development should further be strengthened, she said.

The tourism sector has huge potential opportunities for women, she said, adding the new Ethiopian millennium is believed to help develop the tourism industry of the nation and build positive image of the country.

State Minister of Culture and Tourism, Tadelech Dalesho on her part said the 2007 theme of the day stresses the significant role women should play in bringing about sustainable development across the nation.

The theme also stresses the role of the sector toward realizing the Millennium Development Goals, especially those related to the women’s affairs.

The symposium, which confers on various research studies, attracted institutions operating in tourism sector and other stakeholders.

R: 3: 45 - 4:30

E-4:43-4:58

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