The 69th session of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa (CAF) has concluded in Seychelles with Ghana securing the right to host the landmark 70th edition of the continental tourism gathering in 2027, setting the stage for a historic convergence of Africa’s tourism leaders during the country’s 70th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
The decision, taken at the close of the three-day meeting in Victoria, Seychelles, brings one of Africa’s most important tourism policy forums to Ghana at a symbolic moment in the nation’s history. The meeting brought together tourism ministers, senior government officials and industry leaders from across the continent to discuss strategies for strengthening Africa’s tourism sector, with a particular focus on developing human capital to drive sustainable growth.
Presenting Ghana’s successful bid before fellow African tourism ministers and delegates, the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, described 2027 as “a unique and historic opportunity” because it will coincide with both Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary and the 70th session of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa.
“Ghana is honoured to present its candidacy to host the next session of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa. Our desire to host this important gathering is driven by our unwavering commitment to advancing tourism as a catalyst for sustainable development, economic transformation, cultural exchange and African integration,” she told delegates.
Drawing parallels with Seychelles’ hosting of the 69th meeting, the Minister said Ghana would provide an equally memorable platform for celebrating two important milestones while showcasing the country’s tourism potential.
“As the gateway to Africa and the land mass closest to the center of the world, Ghana is renowned for its warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage, vibrant creative arts sector, diverse tourism attractions and peaceful democratic environment,” she said.
According to the Minister, delegates attending the 2027 meeting will have the opportunity to experience Ghana’s festivals, music, dance, cuisine, traditional craftsmanship and the stories that have shaped both the nation and the African continent.
She said the gathering would bring together policymakers, tourism professionals, investors, creatives and private sector operators to reflect on Africa’s achievements while charting a bold future for tourism development across the continent.
“We believe that hosting CAF in Ghana will not only strengthen collaboration among African Member States but also showcase the immense potential of African tourism to drive inclusive growth, create jobs, empower communities and preserve our cultural heritage for future generations,” Ms. Gomashie stated.
She also noted that Ghana would use the occasion to express appreciation to African countries for their support of President John Dramani Mahama’s international advocacy on reparatory justice, including efforts that culminated in the United Nations’ recognition of slavery as a crime against humanity.
Assuring delegates of Ghana’s readiness, the Minister said the country possessed the infrastructure, hospitality, security and organisational capacity required to host a successful continental event.
“I respectfully and warmly invite all Member States to support Ghana’s bid and join us in making history as we celebrate 70 years of Ghana’s Independence and the 70th UN Tourism Commission for Africa,” she said before presenting a promotional video highlighting Ghana’s tourism attractions.
The successful bid further reinforces Ghana’s growing profile as a leading destination for heritage, cultural and diaspora tourism, while providing another major international platform to showcase the country’s tourism, culture and creative arts sectors to the rest of Africa and the world.
The 69th CAF meeting, hosted by Seychelles from July 2 to 4 under the theme “Strengthening Human Capital to Boost Africa’s Tourism Growth,” focused on building skills, innovation and sustainable tourism development across the continent.
