By Desalegn Terecha

The Dawn of a Visionary: The Life and Legacy of Bekele Molla

In the vibrant tapestry of Ethiopia’s entrepreneurial history, few stories shine as brightly as that of Bekele Molla. Born in 1905 in the scenic Arsi Province of Ethiopia, Bekele’s life journey—from humble beginnings as an egg seller to a pioneering leader in the hospitality industry—serves as a beacon of perseverance, vision, and commitment to community. His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship, and his story continues to inspire generations across Ethiopia and beyond.

Humble Beginnings Amid the Golden Fields of Arsi

Bekele Molla grew up in the fertile landscapes of Arsi, an environment where the rhythms of rural life and the spirit of enterprise were intertwined. His childhood was shaped by simplicity and resilience. Despite scarce educational resources, his parents valued knowledge, ensuring Bekele attended local schools where he learned the basics of literacy and arithmetic.

But it was beyond the classroom that Bekele truly grasped the intricacies of life—learning from the land, the market, and the community around him. These formative experiences would later fuel his entrepreneurial spirit.

The Transformative Power of a Simple Egg

At a young age, Bekele embarked on his first business venture: selling eggs in the local markets of Arsi. With nothing more than a humble basket and fierce determination, he began trading eggs—a staple product that symbolized both his resourcefulness and his commitment to growth.

• Learned pricing and market dynamics
• Understood customer relationships
• Reinvested profits into business growth

These early lessons laid the foundation for the empire he would go on to build.

A Vision Takes Root: Expanding Horizons Through Education

Though his initial success came from small trades, Bekele always recognized that education was the key to greater success. He attended evening classes and workshops, learning the finer points of business management and customer service.

He realized that Ethiopia’s growing population and increased mobility required modern hospitality services. That’s when his grand vision took shape.

The Genesis of a Motel Empire

With his savings and sharpened vision, Bekele launched his first guesthouse in rural Ethiopia. What started small soon grew into a hospitality empire along the Ethiopian Rift Valley region.

He established motels and hotels in:

• Addis Ababa
• Modjo
• Moyale
• Hawassa
• Shashemene
• Arba Minch
• Wolayita Sodo
• Adama
• Batu/Ziway
• Langano
• Meki

Each property reflected a blend of traditional Ethiopian culture with modern amenities. His brand became synonymous with affordability, cleanliness, and warm hospitality.

Innovating with Heart and Soul

What set Bekele apart wasn’t just his business acumen, but his commitment to people. He invested in his employees, offering vocational training programs alongside his motels. These training centers:

• Equipped youth with hospitality skills
• Created local employment
• Boosted service quality in the industry

His values of fairness, culture, and community turned his motels into symbols of integrity and success.

The Legacy of a Family Visionary

Bekele Molla involved his children early in his business operations, ensuring a smooth generational transition. His children now continue his mission, maintaining the brand’s standards and vision.

This approach built a sustainable family-led model admired across Ethiopia, demonstrating how entrepreneurship could remain deeply rooted in ethics and legacy.

Cultural Impact and Enduring Inspiration

Bekele’s motels weren't just places to stay—they became cultural landmarks. His impact spread far beyond his businesses. His life story is now told in:

• Entrepreneurship seminars
• University classrooms
• Family business workshops

He showed Ethiopians that with vision, determination, and honesty, any dream could come true.

Mentorship, Philanthropy, and the Continuing Journey

In his later years, Bekele focused on mentorship and philanthropy. He established:

• Scholarship programs
• Mentorship networks for young entrepreneurs
• Community initiatives for economic empowerment

These efforts extended his legacy and deepened his impact, making him not just a businessman but a community builder.

A Timeless Legacy in a Changing World

Today, the motels and businesses established by Bekele Molla continue to stand as a testament to his enduring legacy. From bustling cities to remote towns, his values live on in every room booked, every employee trained, and every customer served.

His story is not just about business. It is about building a better Ethiopia—one motel, one family, one opportunity at a time.

References

• Interviews with Molla Family Members (2023)
• Field Notes from Bekele Molla Motel, Shashemene
• Oral Histories of Ethiopian Entrepreneurs, Addis Ababa University
• “Legacies of Ethiopian Business Pioneers” – Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce