Partners & Stakeholders
The Silti-Butajera Geopark involves a diverse group of partners and stakeholders vital for its development, management, and promotion.
Key Partners
Ethiopian Ministry of Tourism: The leading federal body guiding geopark development policy and international collaboration.
UNESCO: Provides technical support, capacity building, and international recognition through its Global Geoparks Network.
Local Government Authorities: Regional and district administrations in Silti and Butajira ensure local governance, community involvement, and coordination.
Geological Survey of Ethiopia: Supplies scientific expertise and geological assessments critical to geopark planning.
Academic and Research Institutions: Universities and research centers contribute knowledge, awareness, and educational initiatives.
Local Communities and Traditional Leaders: Central stakeholders who participate in conservation activities, cultural preservation, and benefit from sustainable development.
Tourism Operators and NGOs: Facilitate infrastructure development, promote geotourism, and support conservation projects.
Stakeholder Engagement
The geopark actively engages these stakeholders through workshops, consultations, and collaborative planning sessions, aiming to balance conservation with socio-economic benefits for local communities. Recent initiatives include joint workshops in Addis Ababa convened by UNESCO and the Ministry of Tourism to foster stakeholder coordination and promote geotourism in Eastern Africa, with Silti-Butajera as a flagship site.