The Mozambique Tourism Gala & Investment Forum 2026 concluded in Nampula with a strong call for greater collaboration among African destinations, as tourism leaders, government officials, investors and industry stakeholders gathered to discuss the future of tourism development across the continent.
Among the participants was Sydney Pierre, Deputy Minister of Tourism of Mauritius, who joined discussions on regional tourism development, investment opportunities and strategies to strengthen Africa’s position in the global tourism market. The Mauritian delegation also included H.E. Mrs Danielle Perrier, High Commissioner of the Republic of Mauritius to Mozambique, underscoring the longstanding diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.
Throughout the forum, speakers highlighted the growing importance of regional cooperation in addressing common challenges and unlocking new opportunities for tourism growth. Key themes included improved air and maritime connectivity, increased investment in tourism infrastructure, greater sharing of expertise and best practices, and a more coordinated approach to promoting Africa as a destination of choice for international travelers.
Participants agreed that African destinations stand to benefit significantly from stronger partnerships and integrated tourism strategies that encourage multi-destination travel and enhance the continent’s competitiveness in an increasingly dynamic global market.
The event also provided an opportunity for public and private sector stakeholders to strengthen existing relationships and explore new avenues for collaboration. Organizers, including the Government of Mozambique, the Province of Nampula and Media Craft, were commended for facilitating high-level discussions and fostering engagement among tourism leaders from across Africa.
One of the major announcements emerging from the forum was the selection of Mauritius as host of the next African Tourism & Investment Forum, scheduled to take place from 16 to 20 August 2027. The event is expected to provide a significant platform to showcase Mauritius, Rodrigues and the Vanilla Islands to tourism professionals, investors and policymakers from Africa and beyond.
Another important outcome was the decision to advance a Memorandum of Understanding between the Vanilla Islands and the African Tourism Board. The proposed partnership aims to strengthen cooperation in tourism development, investment promotion and business engagement while supporting initiatives to improve regional connectivity, encourage multi-destination tourism, facilitate knowledge sharing and reinforce links between African destinations.
The African Tourism Board was also recognized for its efforts in bringing together tourism stakeholders from across the continent and for its commitment to promoting tourism, investment and strategic partnerships in Africa.
As delegates departed Nampula, attention turned to the next phase: translating the discussions, commitments and partnerships forged during the forum into concrete projects capable of generating sustainable economic opportunities and long-term benefits for African countries and communities.
For many participants, the success of Africa’s tourism sector will increasingly depend on its ability to work collectively, strengthen regional integration and present a unified vision to the global marketplace.
