As the global tourism sector makes a positive rebound following a two-year disruption of the sector by the Coronavirus pandemic, industry experts are advocating that the travel industry go beyond the figures to fashion out a strategy that looks at the remodeling of the industry to secure its future.
Speaking at the official opening of the 65th World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Commission for Africa Meeting in Arusha Tanzania, the Secretary General of UNWTO Zurab Pololikashvili admonished industry and policy makers to look beyond the numbers.
‘’As you know, the pandemic hit tourism hard. But tourism in Africa has a long history of bouncing back. And it has shown its resilience again. Many destinations are reporting strong arrival numbers. But, dear colleagues, we must look beyond just the numbers. Last week, we celebrated World Tourism Day around the theme of Rethinking Tourism. ‘’
He continued that the sector needs economic and political support to deliver at its maximum level.
‘’Now is the time to back the sector – economically and politically – and allow it to deliver on its potential. Rethinking tourism means focusing on key topics. Topics like: Innovation, investments, and public and private partnerships. Climate action, and tourism governance ‘’ Mr Pololikashvili remarked.
The Secretary-General also makes a strong case for the inclusion of women and youth.
“Rethinking tourism also means making our sector more inclusive – delivering benefits for rural communities, for women and for youth. And making sure everyone has a say in decision making,” he said.
On initiatives the UN World Tourism Organization has embarked on to help develop tourism in the continent, the Secretary-General noted that the secretariat is working hand in hand with member states to advance the shared priorities and give meaning to the Agenda for Africa Program.
‘’In every way, UNWTO will work with our African Member States to advance our shared priorities,” the UNWTO Boss stressed.
