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Ethiopia Pursues First UNESCO Global Geopark Status

BirrMetrics · 5 hours ago · Read the Full Story on BirrMetrics
Ethiopia Pursues First UNESCO Global Geopark Status
AI SUMMARY

Ethiopia is seeking its first UNESCO Global Geopark designation for the Central Ethiopia Rift Valley, joining an international network of 241 sites across 51 countries.

  • Ethiopia is applying for its first UNESCO Global Geopark designation for the Central Ethiopia Rift Valley.
  • UNESCO lists the proposed geopark among 14 new applications being considered in 2026.
  • The 11th Global Geoparks Council session is scheduled for 2–4 November at UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
  • A published Council decision confirming acceptance of Ethiopia's application could not be verified as of 2 November.
  • The Council assesses applications through scientific reviews and field evaluation reports before recommending acceptance, deferral, or rejection.
  • Successful nominations proceed to UNESCO's Executive Board for endorsement at its spring meeting.
  • An evaluation team visited Werabe University laboratories and data centre on 23 July 2026 as part of the field evaluation.
  • Werabe University is supporting the initiative through research, education, and partner collaboration.
  • Previous preparations included a May 2025 joint training programme on geoparks and geotourism involving the Ministry of Tourism and UNESCO.
  • Subsequent visits covered Tiya, Melka Kunture, and other geological heritage sites in Central Ethiopia.
  • Tourism State Minister Sileshi Girma previously identified geotourism as an additional avenue for the tourism sector.
  • UNESCO Global Geopark status requires a legally recognised management body, a comprehensive plan, and visitor facilities.
  • Geopark status is awarded for four years, requiring revalidation and adherence to standards to avoid losing the designation.
  • UNESCO's published network currently comprises 241 geoparks across 51 countries.
Read the Full Story on BirrMetrics
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