WTTC Global Summit comes to Africa

For the first time in history, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit has made its way to the African continent, marking a turning point for the tourism industry in the region. The summit, which took place in Tanzania, brought together key leaders and stakeholders in the tourism sector to discuss the future of travel and how to ensure a sustainable and low-impact industry. One of the notable figures present at the summit was Semai Mohamed Said, the Minister of Tourism and Heritage in Zanzibar, who shared valuable insights on the importance of sustainable tourism practices. In an interview with CNBC Africa, Minister Semai addressed key themes such as building bridges to a sustainable future, marketing Africa as a unified continent, and tackling the high cost of travel within the region. One of the primary topics discussed during the interview was the concept of sustainability in the tourism industry. Minister Semai emphasized the need to focus not only on environmental conservation and energy efficiency but also on the empowerment of local communities. He highlighted the importance of engaging people in the continent to ensure that they benefit from the tourism industry. In Tanzania and Zanzibar, efforts are being made to promote the 'buy local, consume local' initiative, encouraging the local population to actively participate in and benefit from tourism activities. By investing in the local workforce and prioritizing community involvement, Minister Semai believes that the industry can achieve true sustainability. Furthermore, the interview delved into the issue of marketing Africa as a unified destination. Minister Semai stressed the importance of portraying the continent in a positive light and dispelling negative stereotypes. He highlighted the diverse offerings of each African country and the need to showcase these unique attributes on a global scale. By promoting a collective African identity and emphasizing the distinct cultural, culinary, and geographic features of each region, Minister Semai believes that the continent can attract more visitors and compete effectively in the global tourism market. Addressing the high cost of travel within Africa was another key point of discussion. Minister Semai emphasized the need to change the mindset of African travelers, who often overlook domestic destinations in favor of international trips. By encouraging more intra-continental travel, the tourism industry can thrive, leading to increased investment in airlines, better connectivity, and ultimately lower travel costs. Minister Semai highlighted the disparity in airfares between regional and international flights, underscoring the importance of fostering a culture of domestic tourism to drive down prices. In conclusion, the WTTC Global Summit's arrival in Africa symbolizes a new chapter for the continent's tourism industry. With a focus on sustainability, unity, and affordability, African countries have the opportunity to position themselves as premier travel destinations. By implementing inclusive policies, engaging local communities, and redefining the perception of Africa in the global arena, the continent can unlock its full potential as a tourism powerhouse. As Minister Semai stated, 'Tourism for all' should be the guiding principle moving forward, ensuring that the benefits of travel are shared equitably among all stakeholders.