The newly inaugurated Yabelo Airport in the Borana Zone is poised to boost trade and tourism in the area while promoting local culture, said Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh during the airport's official opening ceremony over the weekend.

Speaking at the event during the weekend, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the special place the Borana community, with its enduring Gadaa System, holds in Ethiopian history. He added that the new air gateway will unlock new investment opportunities for the region. Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen also called on the local community, which has been actively working to overcome and sustainably resolve its challenges, to safeguard this vital national asset.

"Borana People Give Milk When Asked for Water," say Residents

Local residents of the Borana area expressed their happiness at the opening of the Yabelo Airport, stating that it will allow many people to see the reality on the ground for themselves.

"He who doesn't die sees a lot," said residents, sharing their joy with ETV and adding that for a person born and living in Borana, there is no greater pleasure than witnessing this development. The residents emphasized that despite past perceptions due to years of drought, the truth is that Borana is fertile, peaceful, and full of love.

They described their community as exceptionally hospitable, "a kind and compassionate people who give milk when asked for water."

Highlighting the region's cultural significance, residents noted that many people come to the area to study the Gadaa system and expressed confidence that the new airport will significantly increase the number of visitors.

"We have inaugurated the Yabelo Airport and put it into operation, which is a new path of hope and development for the people of Borana."