Tanzania’s Minister of Tourism and Natural Resources Ambassador DR. Pindi H. Chana has assured the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) of the country’s readiness to host the Organisation’s Commission for Africa (CAF) Meeting in Arusha.
The 65th Commission for Africa Meeting is scheduled to take place from 5th to 7th October 2022 in Arusha, under the theme: “Rebuilding Africa’s Tourism Resilience for Inclusive Socio-Economic Development”.
Addressing the media after a preparatory mission to Arusha by a team from the UNWTO, Ambassador Chana said the East African country is ready to showcase the best of the country at the event.
‘’The Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism is proud to inform you that, the 65th UNWTO –CAF meeting scheduled to be hosted by The United Republic of Tanzania from 5th to 7th of October 2022 is one of the Strategic events geared to promote and develop the Tanzania – Royal Tour Program initiated by Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania.’’ The Minister observed
“Tourism plays a very significant role in the economy of our country, for instance before the outbreak of COVID 19, Tanzania received 1.52 Million Tourists and earned 2.6 Billion US Dollars. The sector contributed an average of 17 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and generated 1.5 Million jobs (both direct and indirect jobs)”
The Minister averred that the CAF meeting presents a fine opportunity for the country to strengthen customary relations between our country and the international community, particularly in matters related to travel and tourism.
The development of MICE Tourism which is highlighted in the ruling party CCM Election Manifesto (2020-2025) and the National Five Years Development Plan (2021/22 – 2025/26) as strategic tourism products geared to increase the number of tourists from the current level to five (5) million tourists and raise foreign currency earning to a tune of six (6) billion US Dollar by 2025.
She admonished tourism stakeholders to embrace the economic and social opportunities that will result from this meeting as well as event sponsorship.
The Regional Director of Africa at UNWTO Elcia Grandcourt was full of praise for Tanzania for the steps and preparation made so far to host the commission meeting. ‘’The level of preparedness, dedication, and hard work that the TTB and Ministry team had put towards the organization of such an important event is very impressive.
The minister’s presence has surely served as a boost and encouragement to us and the team as we continue to work towards ensuring the successful delivery of the event. “”
She lauded the royal documentary tour initiated by President H.E. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania for the successful launch of The Royal Tour, an initiative that is not only going to further propel tourists to the destination but also to put Tanzania on the global map.
Ms. Grandcourt highlighted how important tourism is to African economies and with recovery gaining momentum, it was right that the industry takes advantage.
‘’Although international tourism remains 61% below 2019 levels, the gradual recovery is expected to continue throughout 2022, as more destinations ease or lift travel restrictions and pent-up demand is unleashed. Africa (+96%) also saw strong growth in Q1 2022 compared to 2021, but arrivals remained 61% below 2019 levels.” Ms. Grandcourt noted.
Despite these positive prospects, a challenging economic environment coupled with several external shocks poses a downside risk to the ongoing recovery of international tourism. The UNWTO Group of Experts now sees a potential return of international arrivals to 2019 levels in 2023.
The Regional Director on behalf of UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili extended his greetings to DR. Pindi H. Chana (MP), Minister Of Natural Resources And Tourism, and congratulated the country on the successful launch of the royal tour
The UNWTO Regional Commission for Africa is the major institutional platform where ministries in charge of tourism discuss the latest trends of the sector at the continental and global level and the implementation of their program of work. The Commission of Africa Meeting is held every year as part of UNWTO’s statutory events.
Tanzania received unanimous approval during the 64th Commission Meeting in Sal Island, Cabo Verde to host the 65th session.
