Gaborone, Botswana, has become the center of Africa’s tourism conversation as it hosts the 7th edition of the Africa Tourism Leaders Forum (ATLF) and Awards. The event, which began on September 4, 2024, at the Gaborone International Convention Centre, has gathered over 500 participants from 43 countries. This year’s theme, “Charting a New Path Forward for Intra-Africa Travel, Tourism, and Investment,” highlights the continent’s efforts to reduce travel restrictions and boost tourism.
In his opening remarks, Botswana’s Vice President, H.E. Slumber Tsogwane, stressed the importance of tourism for Africa’s economic diversification. “The Africa Tourism Leadership Forum is a Pan-African dialogue platform that unites key stakeholders from Africa’s travel, tourism, hospitality, and aviation sectors to network, share insights, and devise strategies for growing intra-Africa travel and tourism while enhancing the brand equity of our ‘Destination Africa,’” he said.
The forum, hosted by Botswana for the third consecutive year, features masterclasses, panel discussions, and networking sessions aimed at fostering collaborations across the continent. Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), delivered a video message praising Africa’s leadership in tourism. “This Forum is a great example of Africa shaping its own tourism future,” he noted.
Pololikashvili also highlighted the growth in international arrivals to Africa, which have risen by 5% since pre-pandemic levels. He further commended Botswana’s rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes, praising its role as a leading tourism destination.
A moment of reflection was observed as the global tourism community expressed condolences to Botswana following the passing of the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Hon. Dumezweni Meshack Mthimkhulu. Pololikashvili remarked, “The late Minister loved his country and was passionate about promoting its heritage and landscapes.”
As the forum continues, attention remains on sustainable tourism and boosting intra-Africa travel, reinforcing Africa’s commitment to developing a thriving tourism industry.
