The Nigerian capital, Abuja, is set to host the 68th Meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa (CAF), alongside a thematic conference dedicated to advancing tourism’s role in social development through innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), and creative industries. The event takes place from tomorrow, 11 to 13 June 2025 at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, with delegates arriving today to begin accreditation and preparatory engagements.
Convened by UN Tourism in partnership with the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the CAF meeting is a key fixture in Africa’s tourism calendar. It brings together ministers, industry executives, development partners, and thought leaders from across the continent and beyond to deliberate on the sector’s most pressing priorities and future pathways.
This year’s thematic focus, Boosting Social Impact and Education in Tourism via Innovation, AI and Creative Industries, reflects an evolving commitment to harnessing technology and creativity to empower communities, particularly young people, and enhance the long-term contribution of tourism to national development agendas.
The UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa serves as the principal policy coordination platform for the continent’s tourism sector under the United Nations system. It provides a space for dialogue, consensus-building, and technical collaboration among member states and affiliated partners. In recent years, CAF meetings have addressed issues ranging from climate resilience and investment facilitation to destination marketing and skills development.
This marks the fourth time Nigeria is hosting the CAF meeting, reinforcing its growing leadership within the continental tourism framework. Authorities from the Federal Ministry of Tourism have expressed confidence in the country’s readiness, citing Abuja’s strategic position, infrastructure, and hospitality ecosystem as key enablers of a successful event.
Delegates will participate in a series of high-level sessions, including a technical workshop on digital skills for tourism professionals, panel discussions on AI and creative industries, and presentations on innovative projects from across Africa. A cultural programme, including visits to local heritage sites and institutions such as the Nike Art Gallery, will complement the official agenda, providing delegates with opportunities to experience Nigeria’s diverse cultural landscape.
The meeting will also include deliberations on the future direction of the Commission and the announcement of the host country for the 69th CAF Meeting in 2026, with Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Seychelles among the candidates under consideration.
As Africa’s tourism industry continues its recovery and growth following the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s CAF meeting is expected to generate renewed momentum, practical policy recommendations, and deeper cooperation across borders.
