eTurboNews:

Marking the annual International Day of the African Child, the African Tourism Board had explained the role which tourism plays in the development of African children welfare, directly and indirectly.

While the relationship between tourism and child welfare is complex, there are several ways in which the tourism industry can contribute to the well-being of children in Africa, African Tourism Board (ATB) President Cuthbert Ncube said through a message.

“Tourism is a major contributor to economic growth in many African countries. Increased tourism revenue can lead to more public resources being available for social services, including education, healthcare, and child protection,” Mr. Ncube said.

“When governments invest in these areas, it can lead to better overall welfare for children”, he added.

Tourism industry creates jobs and employment opportunities for local communities, which can have a positive impact on child welfare and when parents have stable employment and income, they are better able to provide for their children’s basic needs, mostly food, shelter and education, said the ATB President.

He said that many tourism initiatives in Africa focus on community-based tourism, which aims to involve and empower local communities in the planning, management and benefits accrued of tourism. This approach can lead to improved infrastructure, access to education and healthcare services for children in those communities.

“Tourism can also play a role in raising awareness about the challenges that African children face. Many tourists are drawn to Africa for its rich cultural heritage, wildlife and natural beauty. As they learn more about the continent and its people, they may be more inclined to support initiatives aimed at improving child welfare”, Mr. Ncube noted.

On tourism and travel philanthropy for African children, the ATB President said that tourists and tourism companies may engage in philanthropy or volunteer work to support projects aimed at improving the lives of children in Africa.

“This could include funding for schools, orphanages and healthcare facilities or participating in hands-on projects like building classrooms or teaching English”, he pointed out.

“However, it’s important to note that tourism can also have negative effects on child welfare in some cases. For instance, an increase in sex tourism can lead to the exploitation of children”, he said.

Furthermore, tourism development can sometimes lead to the displacement of communities, which can disrupt children’s lives and access to vital services.

In order to maximize the positive impact of tourism on African children’s welfare, it is crucial for governments, tourism operators and local communities to work together to promote responsible and sustainable tourism practices that prioritize the well-being of children and their families.

The ATB President highlighted other key areas for children welfare and development in Africa which are education, health and welfare of children in several ways of which tourism can contribute.

While the direct impact of tourism on these areas may vary depending on the region and the specific tourism activities, the overall contributions can be significant.

Tourism revenue can provide governments with additional resources to invest in education including building schools, providing educational materials and training teachers.

In some cases, tourism operators may also actively support education by sponsoring schools, offering scholarships or partnering with local educational institutions to improve the quality of education.

On increased access to education, tourism can lead to the development of infrastructure such as roads and transportation networks then making it easier for children in remote areas to access educational facilities.

Community-based tourism initiatives may also provide opportunities for local children to learn new skills, languages or gaining exposure to different cultures and ideas.

The revenue generated from tourism can also be allocated to improving healthcare services such as building clinics, hospitals and providing essential medical supplies and equipment.

In some cases, tourists or tourism companies may engage in philanthropic efforts to support local healthcare initiatives like funding vaccination campaigns or providing medical training to local healthcare providers.

Read more: African Tourism Board Honors International Day of African Child

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In response to human rights abuses and corruption in Uganda, the Department of State announces that it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act on Ugandan individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic process in Uganda.

As directed by President Biden, the US government will continue to evaluate additional actions under this policy, as well as the use of other tools at our disposal, to promote accountability for Ugandan officials and other individuals responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic process in Uganda, abusing human rights, including those of LGBTQI+ persons, or engaging in corrupt practices.

As previewed when the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 was enacted in Uganda at the end of May, the Department has also updated its travel guidance to US citizens to highlight the risk that LGBTQI+ persons, or those perceived to be LGBTQI+, could be prosecuted and subjected to life imprisonment or the death penalty based on provisions in the law.

The United States strongly supports the Ugandan people and remains committed to advancing respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Uganda and globally.

Read more: US Visa Restrictions for Undermining Democratic Process in Uganda

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For too many years, African hospitality leaders have worked incredibly hard to maintain operational standards when critical products are unavailable to be sourced on time due to a myriad of reasons, from changing trade restrictions, poor transport infrastructure, currency fluctuations, and supply chain breakages.

This week leaders across the hospitality sector have descended into Nairobi city, the vibrant capital of Kenya and hub of East Africa, to join the annual African Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF) to discuss growth opportunities in the region, and to share their learnings from the last year including developments across the trade and operational landscape. Attending is Toggle Market’s CEO, Fuad Sajdi, and VP of Africa, Abraham Muthogo Kamau, where they have been leading discussions on leveraging local and regional sourcing, and the innovative ways the sector is reducing operational costs.

Supply chain challenges in Africa have been one of the primary obstacles for economic growth and diversification, with businesses continuing to pay inflated prices for nearly every consumable and operational product that is not locally grown or manufactured – where even then it is more profitable to export outside the continent than to cater to the regional market due to weak intra-trade regulations.

Today there are promising signs that this status quo is changing fast

The African hospitality industry is in the throes of a massive transformation. The catalysts? Ground-breaking trade measures, rapidly evolving technology, and a fresh generation of visionary leaders. These forces are challenging the traditional “business as usual” mindset and reshaping the African hospitality landscape.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the largest free trade area globally since the formation of the World Trade Organization, is set to significantly bolster intra-African trade. By reducing trade barriers, it allows a more fluid movement of goods, services, and people across borders. The ripple effect will be profound, with the hospitality sector one of the many industries reaping the benefits of this regional integration.

Breaking with the Past

The lessons of the Covid-19 pandemic have been harshest on the world’s largest continent which has for so long relied on suppliers in far flung countries, most heavily on goods from China, European Union (EU) countries, United States and India.

Take for instance South Africa which remains the largest importing country in Africa at 17% of all imports in the region. Its largest import partners in 2023 were China at 21.9%, followed by United States at 8.8%, Germany at 7.3%, India 5.8% and the UAE 3.6%.[1] The next largest importing countries are Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya and Ghana.

The elephant in the room is that Intra-African trade still stands at only 15.2%, a poor showing when compared with intra-continental trade figures for America, Asia, and Europe, which stand at 47%, 61%, and 67%, respectively, and which should be at the head of the pan regional efforts to support trade and business. Much of this is due to multiple trade restrictions that exist in the region and between neighbouring countries for instance.

The recent World Bank 2022 AfCFTA report[2] shows that the borders between African countries rank among the most restrictive in the world and is the main reason there is relatively little intra-African trade and investment.

The impact of this in real terms is putting the break on the growth of regional businesses while limiting the flow of the international supply chain which in turn heavily relies on intra-African trade routes (where goods are transported across several borders by land routes) due to poor infrastructure and lack of trade and custom harmonisation.

For locally grown African hospitality investors and operators, the supply chain challenges remain acute, and ramifications have meant consistent delays in the growing pipeline of projects, along with sometimes turbulent price fluctuations on shipping and logistics services, as well as effects of weakened domestic currencies.

Our research across Toggle Hospitality clients in Africa has shown examples of multiple duties paid in this way to receive goods crossing several borders resulting in highly inflated pricing for essential products and equipment.

Trade Cooperation and Collaboration

The good news is that there are signs across all industry sectors of more joined up thinking and increased regional cooperation. For instance, amongst East African nations there has been a noticeable increase in activities across both government backed and private sector efforts through the multiple alliances that exist such as the East Africa Business Council, the East African Chamber of Commerce and Trade, and the East African Association.

In addition, the highly lauded and anticipated rollout of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement is geared to be the largest free trade region in the world based on the number of countries – at once connecting 1.3 billion people across 55 countries with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) valued at US$3.4 trillion and with a major potential as well to lift over 30 million people out of the poverty line.

For this to succeed there will need to be mutual and significant policy reforms and trade facilitation measures to reduce red tape, simplify customs procedures, and make it easier for African businesses to integrate into global supply chains. The upside is a boost of income gains around $300 billion.

The role of technology and the importance of a knowledge-based economy will increasingly be a driving force for transforming economic prosperity. The latest report from UNCTAD has warned that neglecting the high knowledge-intensive services, such as information and communications technology services and financial services, will be a key reason holding back export diversification in Africa.[3]

A new generation of hospitality leaders in Africa making waves

Read more: African Hospitality Leaders Discuss Supply Chain Challenges

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From the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum in Nairobi, Marriott International announced five deal signings in Africa under its Protea Hotels by Marriott brand. The signed projects reinforce the company’s commitment to expanding its presence across the continent and highlight the demand for the Protea Hotels by Marriott brand.

“Protea Hotels by Marriott has a long-established legacy in Africa, and we are excited to further strengthen the brand’s footprint in the continent with these five signings,” said Karim Cheltout, Regional Vice President – Development, Africa & All-Inclusive, EMEA at Marriott International. “While we continue to see demand for new build opportunities, the brand is seeing an uptick in conversion projects where developers are looking to rebrand their existing property into a Protea Hotel.”

Protea Hotels by Marriott is a leading hospitality brand in Africa and one of the most widely recognized across the continent. With properties in primary and secondary business centers and desirable leisure destinations, the brand remains a popular choice for travelers into Africa. In line with brand standards, the five projects will feature modern facilities, proactive and friendly service and consistent amenities such as full-service restaurants, meeting spaces and well-appointed rooms.

Marriott International’s current portfolio in Africa features nearly 140 properties and more than 24,000 rooms across 20 countries and 19 brands.

Protea Hotels by Marriott represent more than 40 percent of Marriott International’s portfolio in Africa with over 60 properties and more than 6,500 rooms in operation across nine countries.

The projects announced during the African Hotel Investment Forum are:

Protea Hotel by Marriott Serowe, Botswana

Marriott International expects to grow its presence in Botswana with the signing of Protea Hotel by Marriott Serowe in collaboration with Letsatsi Partners. Slated to open in 2026, the hotel is anticipated to feature 155 guest rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, fitness center, swimming pool and multiple meeting rooms. Protea by Marriott Serowe will be situated near the Khama Rhino Sanctuary in Serowe, between Gaborone and Orapa, one of the world’s largest diamond-producing mines.

Protea Hotel by Marriott Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

Protea Hotels by Marriott is expected to make its debut in Ethiopia with the opening of Protea by Marriott Bahir Dar. The conversion deal was signed with Blue Nile Resort Hotels PLC to rebrand its Blue Nile Resort to a Protea Hotel following a full renovation. The property is expected to be rebranded to Protea by Marriott Bahir Dar by 2025 and will offer 127 guest rooms and suites, multiple dining outlets, a fitness center and nearly 1,000 sqm of meetings and event space. The hotel is situated next to Lake Tana and a short distance from Blue Nile River.

Protea Hotel by Marriott Zanzibar Stone Town, Tanzania

The company signed an agreement with Parklane Holdings Zanzibar Limited to convert its existing property to Protea Hotel by Marriott Zanzibar Stone Town. The project, which is anticipated to open as a Protea Hotel by the end of 2023, is located in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist areas in Zanzibar. Plans for Protea by Marriott Zanzibar Stone Town include 26 guestrooms, an all-day dining restaurant and a rooftop bar.

Protea Hotel by Marriott Abuja Jahi, Nigeria

Projected to open in 2027, Protea Hotel by Marriott Abuja Jahi, Nigeria will consist of 144 guestrooms, two food and beverage outlets, a swimming pool and meeting facilities. The hotel will be situated in the developing district of Jahi which is located northwest of Abuja’s city centre and will be close to Gwarinpa and Jabi, two prominent commercial areas. Protea Hotel by Marriott Delta is a franchised property owned by Gold Reef Hotel Limited and will be managed by BON Hospitality West Africa Limited.

Protea Hotel by Marriott Delta, Nigeria

The company signed an agreement with Dutch Gate Hotel & Suites Limited to convert its existing property to Protea Hotel by Marriott Delta. The property is expected to open as a Protea Hotel in 2024 with 108 rooms, four food and beverage outlets, meeting facilities, a fitness centre and swimming pool. Protea Hotel by Marriott Delta, Nigeria will be situated in Warri, a major oil and gas hub in the South region of Nigeria. Protea Hotel by Marriott Delta is a franchised property owned by Dutch Gate Hotel & Suites Limited and will be managed by BON Hospitality West Africa Limited.

Read more: Protea Hotels by Marriott Signs Five New Deals in Africa

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The African Development Bank Group and the Republic of Tanzania have launched the Skills Development for Youth Employability in Blue Economy project. This is a project that will enable Zanzibari youth to find well-paying maritime and other blue economy jobs.

The Bank is providing grant financing of $48.65 million for the project, with the Tanzanian government contributing an additional $5.42 million. Both parties signed the grant agreement on the 21st of November 2022, with its official launch taking place on 17 May 2023.

The project will benefit about 43,000 youth (40% of them female) and prepare over 1,500 of them to start their own enterprises. They will be able to improve their livelihoods and spur the creation of new jobs. Ocean-based activities, including tourism, contribute more than 29% of Zanzibar’s gross domestic product and employ about 33% of its work force. At the same time, 60% of tourism workers in the islands are foreign.

Dr. Hussein Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar, launched the project during a ceremony held at the Golden Tulip Hotel near Zanzibar Airport. Ministers, permanent secretaries, and other senior government officials attended the ceremony, as did representatives of civil society and youth-led organizations.

President Mwinyi thanked the African Development Bank Group for what he said was its timely support, which would enhance youth employability and job creation in tourism and in the maritime, and oil and gas industries.

The Skills Development for Youth Employability in Blue Economy project will support the expansion of the State University of Zanzibar through construction of a technology and business incubator at Unguja, the archipelago’s main island. The incubator will offer training and mentorship to young entrepreneurs, bolstering job creation in tourism, the maritime sectors, and the oil and gas industry. Approximately 400 SUZA academics and lecturers will receive new skills and training.

The project will also help upgrade Karume Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), which will offer courses relating to the oil and gas industries.

In addition, the project will support construction of five vocational training centres in Unguja and Pemba island.

African Development Bank Group Tanzania Country Manager Patricia Laverley acknowledged the Government of Zanzibar’s request for support in addressing the peninsula’s high unemployment, especially among the youth. She said the Bank’s presence at the launch ceremony was evidence of its commitment to advance human capital development and help transform Zanzibar’s economy.

The project is aligned with Zanzibar’s 2021 Education Policy and the Blue Economy Strategy.

Read more: $54M Project to Create Youth Jobs in Zanzibar’s Blue Economy

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The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) “Focus Africa” drive is gaining momentum, spurred on by the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) as its newest partners.

Focus Africa will strengthen aviation’s contribution to Africa’s economic and social development and improve connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers. It will see private and public stakeholders deliver measurable progress in six critical areas: safety, infrastructure, connectivity, finance and distribution, sustainability and skills development.

“Focus Africa is all about establishing a coalition of partners committing to pool their resources and delivering a set of African air transport solutions that let the continent, its people and economies play a greater, more meaningful and representative role in the global economy. The combined contributions of AFCAC and AASA will be critical to Focus Africa’s success. Africa accounts for 18% of the global population but less than 3% of global GDP and just 2.1% of air passenger and cargo transport activity. With the right interventions those gaps will be closed, and Africa will benefit from the connectivity, jobs and growth that aviation enables,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

“The ability to access, serve and develop intra-African markets is crucial as the continent’s populace is set to increase by over a billion people by 2050. For this to be sustainable, economic opportunities must be created. As other regions have demonstrated, air transport connectivity unlocks broad prosperity. As the African Union’s civil aviation agency, we will support Focus Africa through our work developing a set of harmonized rules and regulations designed to make this connectivity a reality and drive our strategic objectives,” said AFCAC Secretary-General, Adefunke Adeyemi.

“Time is not on our side as AASA’s members and the communities they serve face rising costs, unprecedented unemployment, obsolete constraints on trade and market access, inadequate infrastructure and a looming skills shortage. These demand urgent action, so we do not get stranded on the runway. It is why we have no hesitation standing with IATA and other Focus Africa partners,” added AASA CEO, Aaron Munetsi.

Leaders and decision-makers from airlines, airports, air navigation services, government agencies, aircraft manufacturers, industry suppliers and other stakeholders will convene at the IATA Focus Africa Conference, hosted by Ethiopian Airlines, in Addis Ababa on 20-21 June, to address the six priority task areas in detail.

Read more: AFCAC, AASA Join Forces with IATA on Focus Africa

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The warm Indian Ocean beaches, historical and cultural heritage sites of Zanzibar are now pulling big crowds of holidaymakers from the Middle East.

Zanzibar President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi had visited Qatar in May and attracted tourism investors and other business people in Qatar to invest in the islands of Zanzibar. Dr. Mwinyi said the Zanzibar government was interested in developing heritage and conference tourism, banking on the attractive tourist resorts available on the island.

The Zanzibar president noted that the close relations between Qatar and Zanzibar had achieved significant development in attracting and safeguarding sustainable investments. He invited Qatari businessmen to explore Zanzibar’s host of opportunities in infrastructure, real estate, tourism, hospitality, agriculture, industry, and energy.

Dr. Mwinyi underscored the strategic location of Zanzibar, saying it is accessible to a number of economic blocs including the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the East African Community (EAC), and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA), which all offer a huge market for investors. He said:0

“We need to establish health tourism, energy, and conference tourism as new areas to invest.”

His accompanying delegation included officials from various economic authorities in Tanzania and Zanzibar, including the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA) and Tanzania Investment Centre.

While in Doha, Dr. Mwinyi met with the Vice Chairman of the Qatar Business Council, Mr. Muhammed Bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari, and stakeholders from the private sector of industry, inviting them to invest in Zanzibar where multiple opportunities are available.

Potential investors, led by the Vice-Chairman of the Qatar Business Council, Mr. Mohammed bin Ahmed Al-Kowari, expressed the desire to invest in Zanzibar and Tanzania in general, while admiring the environment and culture of Zanzibar.

Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania consisting of Zanzibar Island (locally, Unguja), Pemba Island, and many smaller islands. Zanzibar island itself is approximately 90 km long and 40 km wide.

Read more: Qatar Tourists and Investments Targeted by Zanzibar

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that RwandAir CEO Yvonne Manzi Makolo has assumed her duties as Chair of the IATA Board of Governors (BoG) for a one-year term, effective from the conclusion of the 79th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Istanbul, Türkiye on 5 June.

Makolo is the 81st chair of the IATA BoG and the first woman to take on this role. She has served on the BoG since November 2020. She succeeds Pegasus Airlines Chairperson of the Board Mehmet Tevfik Nane who will continue to serve on the BoG.

“I am honored and pleased to take on this important role. IATA plays a critical role for all airlines—big and small, various business models, and in all corners of the world. Leading a medium-sized airline in Africa gives me a unique perspective on issues that airlines hold in common. At the top of the agenda are decarbonization, improving safety, the transformation to modern airline retailing, and ensuring we have cost-efficient infrastructure. I am particularly pleased to be taking on this role as IATA launches Focus Africa with the aim of unifying the continent’s stakeholders so that together we can strengthen the contribution of aviation to Africa’s social and economic development,” said Makolo.

Makolo started her aviation career in 2017 when she was appointed as RwandAir’s Deputy CEO in Charge of Corporate Affairs. She was named CEO in April 2018. Yvonne brought 11 years of commercial expertise to her current role, having joined telecommunications company MTN Rwanda in 2006, rising to the positions of Chief Marketing Officer and Acting CEO. Under her leadership, RwandAir has become one of Africa’s fastest growing airlines with a fleet of 13 modern aircraft. She has led cultural change at the airline with a focus on inclusion and diversity and growing the number of women in under-represented roles.

“I look forward to working with Yvonne as we tackle the important challenges of sustainability, rebuilding the aviation workforce while growing diversity and reinforcing the global standards that are so critical for efficient connectivity. I want to thank Mehmet for his strong support and leadership over the past year as the industry emerged from the COVID-19 and in particular, his encouragement in working for greater gender diversity,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Chair Elect and Board of Governors Appointments
IATA announced that Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo, will serve as Chair of the BoG from June 2024, following Makolo’s term.

Read more: RwandAir CEO Chairs IATA Board of Governors

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The editorial by eTurboNews correspondence Tony Ofungi, who also owns the Gorilla information travel company in the Pearl of Africa, explains the story of the war on terror behind the Uganda LGBTQ bill.

About a week ago, the Ugandan AMISOM contingent based in Somalia was attacked by the radical Alshabab Islamists. Uganda suffered heavy losses. Some Ugandan soldiers were captured.

The propaganda arm of Alshabab shared images such as those above.

It described the UPDF Ugandan soldiers as invading crusaders.

Anti-LGBTQ Bill in Uganda

Following Uganda’s President’s signing of the Anti-LGBTQ Bill, US President Biden ordered a review of aid to Uganda worth perhaps $ 1.3 billion.

Somalia Connection

In 1993 abhorred by scenes of dead US Marines being dragged on the streets of Mogadishu in the “Black Hawk Down” debacle, the US pulled out of direct engagements in Africa, preferring to train and finance African troops in proxy engagements on the continent.

The result was the assemblage of contingents from Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and Burundi under the aegis of AMISOM, but in reality, the United States.

The” War on Terror”

In the last 20 years, Africa has made enormous sacrifices by putting boots on the ground. Uganda has the largest contingent in Somalia.

Gains have been made, with Somalia now having a semblance of a government.

US citizens can now sleep peacefully without worrying too much about terrorists or scenes they saw in 1993.

The US support for conservation and in the health sector in Uganda has been phenomenal, with support of the canine unit in Murchison Falls National Park to combat poaching and wildlife crimes, trenches to prevent elephants from straying into communities causing human-wildlife conflict, and support to combat Ebola and Covid in the recent past which was widely reported on eTurboNews.

No one deserves to die for being LGBTQ.

No one deserves to die for being LGBTQ, but several Africans have sufficiently advanced arguments against the victimization of Uganda for standing for our values.

Sex is a private matter, and we would frown even at straight persons in public display, which was the root of contention for the bill.

It has been challenged in the Uganda Constitutional Court premised on human rights violations.

The impression being created by LGBTQ apologists is that Uganda is on fire and, therefore, no tourists should dare visit.

Now even the economic migrants shall start pouring onto the beaches of Lampedusa in droves claiming LGBTQ persecution.

Sadly the biggest victims shall be the reversal of gains made from conservation efforts and the rangers and their families struggling to put food on the table by protecting our wildlife and habitats.

The tour and travel industry, whose revenues trickle down to communities and other value chain sectors, shall suffer too.

The health sector cannot afford to be underfunded, too, lest we end up in another potential lockdown.

The Covid pandemic was proof enough of that.No country lives in isolation in this global world.

Read more: Connecting the War on Terror, the Uganda LGBTQ Bill, and Tourism

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Shame on Uganda’s President Museveni. Tourism leaders warn, was first published by eTurboNews, after the president signed the strictest anti LGBTQ law in the world on Tuesday.

Responses from travel industry leaders, government officials, and concerned travelers had been pouring in.

Surprisingly not all postings on an ongoing heated discussion on the World Tourism Network Africa WhatsApp group condemn this law. It appears those against it are mostly silent, making this public discussion prominently an endorsement for Uganda’s lead in Africa to promote the death penalty for members of the Aggravated gayness.”

While Uganda members remain silent, support for the Uganda Anti LGBTQ law was voiced by members of the travel and tourism community in Kenya, and Nigeria.

Privately, WTN members and eTurboNews readers from Uganda applauded the outcry about this law by the world, but were worried about speaking out.

Because of Ugandans unable to speak out, some in other African countries see this an endorsement and drum the hate bell even louder.

Devna Pandit of Boma Trave in Kenya said:

Someone should raise their voice in defense of the Ugandan President’s & the Ugandan people’s right to choose their stand in this & any other issue.

The publisher of “Best of Nigeria Travel Magazine” did exactly this in saying:

For the records, LGQBT have no place in African cultures and traditions and no amount of blackmail will change that.

Anyone who is not okay with maintaining our cultures and traditions as well as our sanity as human beings can stay away from Africa. Where one man’s right stops is where another man’s right starts. Africa cannot be cajoled into accepting “absurd” behaviors of the west in the name of “human right”. We have come of age.

We will even promote death sentence, not even imprisonment for LGBTQ behaviors.

Best of Nigeria Travel Magazine

Those that don’t want to do business with Africa because of our values should stay away. We abhor LGQBT with a passion.

Please leave the matter where it belongs in the wild wild west NOT in Africa. We don’t, we can’t and will NOT accept it. Jail awaits offenders.

The verdict across Africa is clear. We do not want LGQBT in our communities. Promote it elsewhere NOT in Africa.

Devna Pandit, a tour operator in Kenya added:

We in Africa need to listen to this carefully before we cast our vote and agree with WTM or any other FORUM , to shame Uganda for refusing to accept what the West is trying to foist on us.

Respectfully, to the officials of this forum. It is no disrespect to those who are wilful and old enough to decide what gender they choose to be.

But to inculcate such thoughts in our children. And just because YOU wish to do so in the West, to force us also to do the same is also NOT acceptable to us in Africa or to us as Africans. And to shame any African country or any country in the world for that matter for having their own views, laws and decide for themselves what the wish for as policies smacks on Discrimination and has the flavor of the old Apartheid Regime.

Where the white man decides what Africans should do. I say this with great respect to our members and out board. And apologies if I have caused any offense.

But as Uganda has been officially stayed in this forum has having been shamed. I think it only fair.

JousLTE, Nigerian tour agency and event planner sees it:

Truth is, African countries do not consider that (LGBTQ) as our priority issues. We are more concerned about peace amongst our brethren in the Great Lakes region, How to restore peace in the Horn of Africa etc. How to promote greater intro-African trade and travel, reduce crime and many more salient issues.

So in simple terms we have a lot of situations to take care of than discussing about an irrelevant topic sincerely.

Ms.B from Nigeria explains:

This topic always causes loads to be said!! Can it be kept simple. Can we get any CLARITY from fundamentals?

Away from relating it to “rights”,”Africans”, “Whites”,”Cultures” etc? Just me following here, and pondering. How did we get this far!!

All these familiar concepts where existing from thousands of centuries before Christ and Islam? Before LGBTQ?
Or not?

And there was obviously no conflicts then? No one trying to “impose”, or “insist” any of the above was superior to the other? Or required to be accepted as?

Such that like in other areas such as when suddenly Africans started saying they want to wear African prints culturally known and acceptable to them instead of European suits “culturally known and acceptable to their own culture too”? .

So for instance those that made those decision, and many decided they want none of these TWO. They prefered to choose a polyester mixed of fabric! To be different.

But, the creators of the two main ones created their own CLEAR fashion. African and European. The polyester mix was not either of the two others. It was a “decision mix” a human creator mix? Still wearable by those that WANTED?

Did they have to Lord it over others?

Are they not the ones that chose to deviate from the generally known TWO FASHIONS?

No wahala as we say in Nigeria.

Such that should the POLYESTER GROUP start saying it is their right to make the AFRICAN PRINT group or EUROPEAN group acknowledge their RIGHT to wear polyester? And by force accept their polyester mix? And allow others to wear it too. The two group have a right to say YES OR NO? Because they had an ESTABLISHED CULTURE, People, interest, focus, fabric choice too? And all of this need to be acknowledged and respected like those of the smallest NICHE OF A SOCIETY- FAMILY culture, rights, etc. That existed from the time of “THE GARDEN OF EDEN”?

Is anyone disturbing them? I don’t believe so.

What we don’t hear or ask i think also is. Who is the CREATOR of the common HUMAN Gender known? That we all emerged from?

besides the atheist’s belief ? and those who may believe Man came from evolution? Did any of these sources ” Create” this present gender discussed? From the beginning?

So whatever CREATOR is recognised to be the above he initally created ” Male & Female in the garden we all know? Or the “norm” we all know?

Unless a few “other mix” existed there unknown? As far as I know there wasn’t or Maybe I stand to be enlighten on this.

So any ” polyester mix” has occurred as a result of ” human happenings” to put this simply and with all due respect.

Such that it cannot now be “forced down” anyone’s mind or see it as the norm?

The right? The choice for the whole of AFRICA? EUROPE? THE GLOBE? based on what?

The “right”; The “culture”,etc that was in existence from as long as human beings male and female existed?

I guess we have to keep going back to fundamental reference points?

Who is the creator of the human race? What did he create initially? 5 genders or 2 or ?

So where have we got it mixed up? As I love to say like a ” cocktail mix”!!

This for me is the ” mix” creating “shades of views” here that really can make one ask where did we get all this wrong or create a gap!!

It’s a matter of LIVE & LET LIVE too- if the challenge of whatever gender life decisions have made anyone to ” find yourself”, “think yourself to be” , or ” constantly trying to convince yourself, and others how to perceive your gender” is the case.

Especially if it is not “your choice” or “your fault”.It is all choices that humm exist?

It is like an illness or disease? We never choose it but when we have it we put ALL EFFORT to CURE it to remain alive like normality known to all?

That is a STATE OF FREEDOM from illness or a disease?

Like the familiar Gender known from the “garden of eden” ? Depending on your BELIEVE of where the human race/gender evolved from? Before any others describe here were “born”??

So in such a state we don’t I say because I am “ill”? On burdened with something? Everyone should give a “right” to everyone to be “ill” along with me?

Such a logic of our thoughts process calls for concern. Not only for the African continent but the WHOLE Human race that we all are part of and have a collective responsibility to protect??

Good day to all in the “AFRICAN HOUSE” here.

Just my view.

Cheers

World Tourism Network Chairman Juergen Steinmetz concluded:

I really appreciate your point of view, but respectfully I don’t think the white man or anyone forcing views on an independent country such as Uganda – or on Africa is the issue at all here.

Any country no matter where in the world that legalizes the persecution of a minority and threatens to kill their own citizens only because they have a sexual orientation some find sinful, wrong or perverse does not have the right under human laws, religious values to do so.

The world should have spoken when German Nazis killed fellow German citizens who happened to be Jewish . The apartheid regime in South Africa treating black citizens like secondary – all of this has nothing to do with a country being allowed to make laws for themselves.

Shame on the president of Uganda and those that voted for this so called witch hunt law .

Respect for the good people of Uganda and solidarity with anyone in the Uganda LGBTQ community . They are Ugandan as other Ugandan- or do I see this wrong ?

Juergen Steinmetz is wrong, says JousLTE:

Hi Juergen, you see, words like those in your last paragraph are some of the reasons Africans feel insulted and utterly disrespected on the issue of these LGBTQ thing, Sir.

That is not engaging, rather you’re disparaging the leadership and the entire parliament of a country because MAJORITY of the people speaking and voting through their parliamentarians have chosen what they felt serves them better.

Funnily, many of the people trumpeting LGBTQ all over the place just to be seen to adhere, are silently wishing in their quiet corners that none of their relations will choose to change his or her sex.

Burkhard Herbote from Germant explained:

I just have checked with Germany. Here in Germany the official government statistics speak about 0.01413% of the population have changed their sex. So quite a few.

We have to see this different from the gay and lesbian community, who are much more. Those are between 12-14 % in any country/society, whether it will be Fiji Islands, Germany, Nigeria, USA, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Israel, UK, Portugal, Uganda or Samoa.

To be gay/lesbian is nothing what one is choosing, that is the fact since birth, even if other have other meanings.

That meaning is a meaning, not a scientific fact. One can like it or not, one can not like it but tolerate, one can not tolerate it, it does not change.

Also gay/lesbian is not related to transsexual people, nobody is gay or lesbian because of being trans whatever. We have to accept those people exist and they are not more good or more bad than others just because of their sexual orientation.

One can decide for him/herself to not like it, what is very normal. I am not gay and have no interest in any gay experiences at all, but I respect the people as long as they do not behave criminal.

Also the LGBTQ community is not just one homogenize community. We all are individuals and that is very good.

Read more: Execute LGBTQ: A Scary Trend by some African Tourism Fanatics

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Viking today announced voyages on its newest Nile River ship, the Viking Hathor, are now available for booking. Set to debut in 2024, the Viking Hathor will join the company’s growing fleet of purpose-built ships on the Nile River, which sail the popular 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary. Demand in Egypt remains strong, with Viking’s 2023 season sold out and some sailings into 2025 already selling out.

“Egypt continues to be one of our most popular destinations,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “As a country rich with history and culture, we are pleased to bring the Viking way of exploration to Egypt for our guests. With the addition of the Viking Aton this summer and the Viking Hathor next summer, we are looking forward to meeting the growing demand in the region.”

The news follows recent accolades for Viking’s river fleet in Egypt. In its first year of sailing, the Viking Hathor’s identical sister ship, the Viking Osiris, was named as one of the “Best New Cruises” in Conde Nast Traveler’s “2023 Hot List.” Additionally, TIME magazine featured both Giza and Saqqara on its “World’s Greatest Places of 2023” list, recommending sailing the Nile River with Viking. TIME notes that Viking is among the very few who stop in both Giza and the village of Saqqara, where excavation sites, like the megatombs of animal and human mummies, are active.

The Viking Hathor & Viking’s Growing Egypt Fleet

Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new, state-of-the-art Viking Hathor is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. The Viking Hathor is the identical sister ship to the Viking Aton, which debuts in August 2023, and the Viking Osiris, which was named in 2022 by Viking’s first ceremonial godfather, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon. The sister ships feature several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. In addition to the Viking Aton and the Viking Osiris, the Viking Hathor will join the other ships in the Egypt fleet, the Viking Ra and the MS Antares. In response to strong demand, Viking will have six ships sailing the Nile by 2025 with the addition of a new sister ship, the Viking Sobek, which is also under construction and will be delivered in 2025.

Viking’s Pharaohs & Pyramids Itinerary

During the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Saqqara (also known as “Sakkara”) and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring Privileged Access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colorful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

Read more: Viking Announces Additional Sailings in Egypt

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eTurboNews:

Tanzania has approved a construction of a multi-million-dollar five-star lavish contemporary hotel within the Serengeti National Park, as it seeks to enhance leisure travel.

The $18 million, stylish and eye-catching, Lake Magadi Serengeti Hotel, stands against the backdrop of two acres in the middle of the Serengeti National Park, with awe-inspiring views.

With its traditional elegant architecture and furnishings reminiscent of the early 1920s, the hotel would have 75 luxurious residential units with capacity to accommodate 150 high-end tourists.

The local investor behind the ambitious tourist property, under the Wellworth Hotels and Lodges, says the five-star hotel will be operational in the first quarter of 2024, targeting locals and foreigners that are after exclusive luxury, coupled with unparalleled landscape and wildlife views.

Apart from giving the country the potential for its first world-renowned hotel, the owner, Mr. Zulfikar Ismail, is also linked an ambitious project to transform the entire Tanzania’s northern tourism circuit, into a leisure travel hub for the high-end local and foreign holidaymakers.

“We are using the traditional African environmental friendly building materials on our hotel, not only to avoid disturbing nature, but also to offer the tourists a truly nature based ambiance” Mr Ismail says, adding that some of the most magnificent sunsets can be enjoyed from the terraces of the hotel.

“Whether you like to relax or to enjoy the serene and vastness of the Serengeti plains in one of our 75 comfortable and well-appointed bungalows, it is just one step out of your bed where wildlife will greet you with their smile,” he added.

Themed around traditionally circular African houses with special roofs, and decorated with Africa’s woodcarvings and sculptures, the lodge harmonizes perfectly with its spectacular surroundings.

The drama however does not just stop with the great outdoors: it also flows through the split level interiors of the main building which all offer an unsurpassed generosity of space while somehow managing to combine an almost magically welcoming ambience of both warmth and cosiness supplemented by a variety of food options.

“So our investment as Tanzanians, among others, intends to complement efforts by the government under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan in stimulating tourism growth to achieve five million tourists and $6.6 billion earning in 2025,” Mr. Ismail noted.

Billed to be one of the world’s exclusive and luxurious hotel with an array of leisure ambiance, the Lake Magadi Serengeti promises the ultimate African accommodation experience for high-end tourists, while viewing bigger game around the hotel.

The Wellworth Hotels and lodges Ltd, is one of the prominent companies running a number of top-notch hotels namely Kunduchi Beach Hotel, Zanzibar Beach Resort, Tarangire Kuro Tree Tops Lodge, Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge, Ngorongoro Mountain Lodge in Karatu and Oleserai Luxury camps in Serengeti.

Commenting on the project, Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) said the Wellworth Hotels & Lodges Limited has been allocated the area, through an official letter TNP/HQ/P.30/17 dated on June 04, 2015.

The statement signed by the Senior Conservation Officer, Corporate and Public Affairs Manager, Ms Catherine Mbena indicates that the wellworth Hotels & Lodges Ltd, was awarded an area at Lake Magadi Serengeti for the purpose of establishing a top quality lodge after fulfilling all the requirements.

The custodian of 22 National Parks said that the local investor has followed all the laid-down procedures and that the property currently under construction, has ticked all boxes as far as park and the National Environmental Management Council (NEMC)’s regulations are concerned.

“The investor has been acquired a property clearance certificate number EC/EIS/2435 issued by the NEMC in May 16, 2016, after having successfully undergone through Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)” TANAPA said in a statement on Wednesday evening.

Serengeti National Park is undoubtedly the best-known wildlife sanctuary in the world, unequalled for its natural beauty and scientific value, it has the greatest concentration of plains game in Africa.

The planet’s largest remaining wildlife migration with an annual loop of two million wildebeest across the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara Reserve is a key tourist allure, generating multi-million dollars annually.

Nearly 700,000 tourists who visit the legendary Tanzania northern tourist circuit annually explore the Serengeti and have been fascinated by its millions of wildebeest each, driven by the same ancient rhythm, fulfilling their instinctive role in the inescapable cycle of life.

From the sprawling Serengeti plains to the champagne-coloured hills of Masai Mara, over 1.4 million wildebeests, 200,000 zebra and gazelle, relentlessly tracked by Africa’s great predators, migrate in a clockwise fashion over 1,800 miles each year in search for rain-ripened grass.

Read more: Tanzania Greenlights New Luxury Hotel in Serengeti National Park

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eTurboNews:

The President of ATB, Hon. Cuthbert Ncube, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with HE Albert Muchanga, AU Commissioner for Economic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry, and Mining (ETTIM), today at the Sheraton Hotel in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The African Tourism Board is an association that is internationally acclaimed for acting as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from, and within the African region. Also in attendance to witness the signing was the Hon. Silesh Girma, State Minister of the Ministry of Tourism for Ethiopia.

ATB Patron Shares His Thoughts

African Tourism Board patron Dr. Taleb Rifai, former UNWTO Secretary-General, expressed his appreciation for the MOU signing.

“Tourism has become today an extremely important activity. No wonder the African Union is signing this memo with the African Tourism Board. Today, tourism is not only a significant economic sector, it is also a wonderful peace builder. It brings everybody together and breaks down all barriers. One can never ever carry any feelings of resentment or stereotyping any nation after he has visited it, had lunch or dinner with somebody at the host country, listened to their stories.

“It’s people rubbing shoulders with people, it’s the best medium to break down all stereotypes and foster world peace.

“It’s particularly important for Africa, where most of the people of the world today don’t know Africa, it’s important that when they come, they learn from us, they would know that all the people of the world came out of Africa, east Africa in particular is without doubt the birthplace of mankind; this is proven by everybody. Look at the BBC program “The Journey of Man” – it says it quite clearly.

“Tourism is today what the world needs not just through creating jobs and providing income to many families of course if well managed, and this why ATB is important.”

“This is a historic day – it caters to the so-called sustainable development tourism in Africa  Sustainability is not just about the environment, as important as that is, it’s about social and economic sustainability in addition.

“ATB is the world’s body that does that for Africa. That is why this is a very important opportunity for all. I wish I was there in person, but my health has prevented me from being with you at my beloved Addis Ababa, where we all came out of there. I wish you all the best of time and ‘Long live Africa?’”

About the African Tourism Board

Founded in 2018, the African Tourism Board (ATB) is an association that is internationally acclaimed for acting as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from, and within the African region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research, and innovative events to its members. In partnership with private and public sector members, the African Tourism Board enhances the sustainable growth, value, and quality of travel and tourism in Africa. The Association provides leadership and counsel on an individual and collective basis to its member organizations. The ATB is expanding on opportunities for marketing, public relations, investments, branding, promoting, and establishing niche markets.

Read more: Dr. Taleb Rifai Shares Proud Day at African Tourism Board

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eTurboNews:

Skål International Cape Town proudly announces the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOU) with Qingdao Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, marking a significant milestone in fostering cross-marketing and collaboration between these two vibrant cities. The formalities took place during an extraordinary meeting held on Friday, 26 May 2023, in Cape Town, South Africa.

Johan van Schalkwyk, Vice President of Skål International Cape Town, had the esteemed honor of delivering a heartfelt welcome address during the proceedings. Recognizing the immense potential for growth in the tourism sector, Van Schalkwyk emphasized the critical importance of cultivating strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts between brands, organizations, cities, and regions.

The distinguished delegation from Qingdao, China, included Wenpeng Su, Deputy Governor of the Laoshan District Government, and Bangru Sui, Deputy Director of the Qingdao Culture and Tourism Bureau. Their presence exemplified their commitment to fostering meaningful relationships and mutual growth within the tourism industry.

A momentous highlight of the gathering was the signing of the MOU, solidifying the cooperative efforts between Qingdao Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism and Skål International Cape Town. The memorandum recognizes the global reach and influential network of Skål International, while acknowledging Qingdao as an exceptional international tourism brand.

The MOU furthermore emphasizes the importance of co-marketing and promoting each other’s destinations, facilitating the exchange of information and tourists between Cape Town and Qingdao. This collaborative approach aims to drive the mutual development and prosperity of tourism in both cities.

While Skål International currently does not have a dedicated club in China, the previous World President, Lavonne Wittman, made significant strides in establishing a Skål International presence in the country. Presently, there are three independent Skål International members in China, showcasing the growing interest and potential for further collaboration.

The ceremony, hosted at the prestigious TAJ Hotel in Cape Town, culminated in a magnificent tea ceremony symbolizing unity and friendship between Cape Town and Qingdao.

The MOU between Skål International Cape Town and Qingdao Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism paves the way for strategic relationships, creating a platform for sharing best practices, fostering cultural exchange, and enhancing tourism cooperation between these dynamic cities.

Read more: SKAL Cape Town New Tourism Partnership with Qingdao, China

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eTurboNews:

After the World Tourism Network (WTN) warned travelers to Uganda about the possible dangers involved, and urged the United States to take action, USAID issued a firm warning today, urging Uganda to reconsider dangerous law targeting LGBTQI+ that jeopardizes assistance.

The United States cancelled the current Visa for Uganda’s House Speaker Anita Among.

With the enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023 (AHA), Uganda has become one of the most dangerous places in the world for LGBTQI+ persons. Under the AHA, persons who engage in same-sex relations may be imprisoned for life or even face the death penalty.

This law is an unconscionable attack on an already marginalized group. No one should be punished or harmed for whom they love. LGBTQI+ Ugandans have been a part of the country’s society throughout history and should enjoy the same protections and opportunities as every other Ugandan. Yet since the AHA passed Parliament on March 21, 2023, LGBTQI+ Ugandans have been targeted with heightened violence, harassment, and evictions. Many fear they will soon lose access to critical health and social services.

The AHA is only the latest in a series of actions by the Government of Uganda to curtail freedoms and violate the human rights of its people. Human rights are under attack in Uganda, with journalists, human rights defenders, and anyone who opposes the regime regularly arrested, tortured, and disappeared. The increasing threats, violence, and abuse perpetrated against the Ugandan people, including members of the LGBTQI+ community and those who provide services to them, is unacceptable.

As one of the largest providers of foreign assistance to the people of Uganda, including through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS relief, USAID remains committed to nondiscrimination for all its program participants – including on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

As we have raised on many occasions with the Government of Uganda, the enactment of the AHA will directly impede our ability to provide effective USAID assistance to the people of Uganda. It will hinder our partnership with Uganda and the Ugandan people in the fight against HIV/AIDS. It will severely undermine the ability of USAID staff and U.S. partners who identify as LGBTQI+ to safely and freely live and work in Uganda. And it will make it more difficult for our partners to advance inclusive development across the many sectors and areas where we work.

Because of this, USAID is joining other departments and agencies from across the U.S. government to evaluate the impact of this law on our policy, relationship, and assistance toward Uganda. The United States urges the Government of Uganda to reconsider the Anti-Homosexuality Act, demand an end to violence against Ugandans under the auspices of the law, and take affirmative steps to protect human rights for all Ugandans.

Shame on Uganda’s President Museveni, Tourism Leaders Warn (eturbonews.com)

Read more: USAID Follows WTN with Warning About Uganda Travel

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Nairobi-based Magna Hotel & Suites has found the ultimate hotel revenue-management solution with RateTiger. This 4-star property has been using the RateTiger Shopper for rate intelligence and projection on market trends, adding value to its overall revenue strategy.

Along with it, this luxury hotel also uses RateTiger Booking Engine & Global Distribution System an overall convenience in online distribution and revenue growth.

The user-friendly interface of the Rate Shopper has proven beneficial for Magna Hotel by increasing efficiency in performance and reducing the time spent on management. The market intelligence reports provided by the RateTiger Shopper also offer insights into their OTA (Online Travel Agency) spread, allowing them to update their rates and inventory in real-time.

This luxury property has been experiencing increased connectivity and direct income facilitated by the Rate Shopper, Booking Engine, and GDS contributing to improved revenue performance and guest satisfaction.

The distribution and revenue management team of the hotel can optimize their revenue strategy and drive direct bookings by effectively managing rates, inventory, and promotions across online distribution channels.

“We have been using Booking Engine, RateTiger Shopper and GDS for the last one year. RateTiger provides up-to-date industry news, forecasting trends and strategy recommendations, fast customer service and keeps us market ready. Pooling inventory to deliver ARI updates, including system repair and update exercises, increases our communication with our other channels.” – Commented Ms. Wanjiku Mungai, Management, Magna Hotel & Suites, Nairobi.

“Team RateTiger provided hands-on assistance and quickly assisted in problem-solving with the RateTiger solutions. The seamless and interactive training about RateTiger solutions helped us to facilitate efficient onboarding.” – Summed up Ms. Mungai.

RateTiger Shopper is a revenue management tool that helps hotels maintain rate integrity and the correct pricing on various channels to optimize their pricing and revenue strategies.

The 4-star luxury Magna Hotel & Suites uses RateTiger Booking Engine to capture direct bookings from their website, reducing the dependency on OTAs and third-party channels. Along with it, it helps us seamlessly manage our room rates across all platforms.
After using RateTiger Shopper and Booking Engine, Magna Hotel & Suites now looks forward to connecting with other member-partners on the GDS network and maximizing on other RateTiger products.

Read more: New Revenue-Management Solution at Magna Hotel & Suites

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Qatar Airways, the Official Airline Partner of the United Rugby Championship (URC), concluded its participation in the 2023 season at the URC Grand Final on 27 May, congratulating Munster at DHL Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa.

The clash in Cape Town represented the pinnacle of elite club rugby. To further celebrate the match, the airline launched a social media contest where winners were invited to experience Qatar Airways’ best-in-class service via VIP hospitality tickets, and were gifted a signed Munster jersey. Additionally, Qatar Airways offered attending rugby fans a discount of up to 15 per cent on flights upon joining the airline’s Privilege Club.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “As a proud partner of the United Rugby Championship, we are committed to enhancing the rugby experience for fans worldwide. Rugby is a globally beloved sport, and we are excited to provide more opportunities for fans to witness their favourite teams in action. Our growing partnership with the United Rugby Championship underscores our dedication to promoting the sport and creating unforgettable moments for rugby enthusiasts.”

In partnership with URC, the airline connected two hemispheres by helping fans travel to the URC Grand Final, facilitating global connections through the power of sport. Qatar Airways’ new partnership with URC has proven immense success – elevating the league’s global presence and fostering unparalleled growth opportunities for rugby enthusiasts worldwide.

In South Africa, the airline offers 10 weekly flights to Cape Town, as well as 21 weekly flights to Johannesburg, and four connecting flights from Johannesburg to Durban, bringing the total number to 31 weekly flights connecting passengers to more than 160 destinations worldwide.

Qatar Airways as a brand is committed to supporting sports globally, helping fans travel to their favourite events around the world. The airline is the Official Airline of Formula 1®, Paris-Saint Germain, FC Bayern, the Royal Challengers Bangalore, CONCACAF, the IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 Triathlon Series, the Global Kitesports Association (GKA) and GKA Kite World Tour, and multiple other disciplines including Australian football, basketball, equestrian, motor racing, squash, and tennis.

With the largest global network in the region and the Best Airport in the Middle East offering seamless and efficient connectivity to destinations across the world, Qatar Airways continues to lead the recovery of international air travel.

Read more: Qatar Airways Concludes United Rugby Championship Season

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eTurboNews:

Many in the Uganda LGBTQ Community are fleeing this East African Country; tourists are afraid to visit the Pearl of Africa after 78-year-old President  Yoweri Museveni signed the harshest anti-homosexuality law in the world with a golden pen today. The president of the country, however, is a proud man because he defied pressure from what he calls “imperialistic” Western Countries and even the Vatican.

Foreign investments, foreign aid will punish not only those who supported this law, but Uganda’s economy will suffer All evidence shows it will drive investment away from the country.

The law includes the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality.”

Same-sex relations were already illegal in Uganda, as they are in more than 30 African countries. The new law in addition also targets lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people and requires “reporting.”

Theoretically, anyone could be arrested on a “suspicion only, putting not locals, rivals, but also travelers at risk.

The maximum penalty is death in Mauritania, Somalia, and Nigeria in states where Sharia law is applied – and now also Uganda.

Life imprisonment is the maximum penalty for same-sex relations in Sudan, Tanzania, and Zambia. Jail terms of up to 14 years are possible in Gambia, Kenya, and Malawi.

In 2017, Chad criminalized same-sex acts in what the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA) called “a worrying example of legal regression in the region.”

A draft bill to toughen strict laws against same-sex relations in Senegal was thrown out in January last year before being put to a vote because existing legislation was deemed sufficiently clear and the resultant penalties severe enough.

Although homosexuality is not a crime in Egypt, discrimination against the LGBTQ community is rife. Gay men are frequently arrested and charged with debauchery, immorality, or blasphemy.

Ivory Coast does not criminalize gay sex, but there have been recorded cases of detention and prosecution.

Tanzania has banned the provision of condoms and lubricants to LGBTQ health clinics and, since 2018, increased the use of forced anal examinations.

Sodomy convictions in Tunisia have reportedly been on the rise.

Broad protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation exists in three countries: Angola, Mauritius, and South Africa. Employment protection exists in the same three countries plus Botswana, Cape Verde, Mozambique, and Seychelles.

South Africa is the only African country where gay marriage is legal.

The new law in Uganda imposes capital punishment for some behavior, including having gay sex when HIV-positive, and stipulates a 20-year sentence for “promoting” homosexuality.

Human rights leaders in Uganda say: “It’s a very dark and sad day for the LGBTQ community, our allies, and all of Uganda.”

Activists have vowed a legal challenge to the law.

Uganda receives billions of dollars in foreign aid each year and could face another round of sanctions.

Besides the United States, most European Countries and even Google condemned the legislation after its original passage in March.

“With a lot of humility, I thank my colleagues, the Members of Parliament, for withstanding all the pressure from bullies and doomsday conspiracy theorists in the interest of our country,” the Speaker of the Uganda Parliament, Anita Among, said.

Uganda’s LGBTQ community is afraid: many have closed down social media accounts and fled homes for safe houses.

The World Tourism Network immediately commented:

“No country has the right to violate human rights, including the life of its people. 10% of all people in Uganda are terrified to be part of the LGBTQ community. Shame on the President of Uganda and those that voted for this so-called law.

We highly respect the good people of Uganda and support the LGBTQ community there. No decent human being would want to support such discrimination.”

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) still remain silent.

Safety and Security for Travelers to Uganda

eTurboNews will continue to warn readers, specifically members and friends of the LGBTQ community, to use extreme caution when traveling to Uganda.

This is a major ramping up of anti-gay laws into unchartered areas.

Uganda’s economy will suffer All evidence shows it will drive investment away from the country. Which multi National CEO would ask employees to go and work there, an investment expert told eTurboNews.

Read more: Shame on Uganda’s President Museveni, Tourism Leaders Warn

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eTurboNews:

This new chapter for Tourism Cooperation in Africa is also a new chapter for the African Tourism Board, the African Union, and the African Continent.

The proud Chairman of the African Tourism Board, Cuthbert Ncube, is traveling to Addis Ababa to sign this historic Memorandum of Understanding between the two organizations at the African Union Headquarters.

This will happen on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at 3.00 pm.

The African Union (AU) comprises the 55 member states that comprise the African Continent’s countries. It was officially launched in 2002 as a successor to the Organisation of African Unity.

The African Tourism Board started with a vision for marketing Africa by its founder Juergen Steinmetz. It emerged by developing a global organization under its leader, Chairman Cuthbert Ncube, and a team of dedicated members.

A team of prominent tourism personalities, such as the former UNWTO Secretary General Dr. Taleb Rifai, the former minister of Tourism from Seychelles, Alain St. Ange, the Hon Memunatu Pratt, Minister of Tourism for Sierra Leone, or the Hon. Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Eswatini Hon. Moses Vilakati, Walter Mzembi, former Minister of Tourism for Zimbabwe are only some of the many leaders sharing and forming this vision for tourism in Africa.

Discussed first in 2017 and launched in Cape Town, South Africa, during the World Travel Market in 2018, the organization is now based in the Kingdom of Eswatini with members across the continent.

The African Union is the pulse of African cooperation on all levels.

Juergen Steinmetz, founding Chair of the African Tourism Board, issued a letter congratulating ATB Chair Cuthbert Ncube.

Dear Cuthbert,

as the founding Chair and Executive Board Member of the African Tourism Board, I would like to relay my heartfelt congratulations on beginning the next big chapter for ATB.

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the African Tourism Board and the African Union.
As always, count on my full support and the full support of the World Tourism Network.

Juergen Steinmetz
Chairman World Tourism Network

ATB Chairman Ncube responded:

Chief, this has come as the result of our commitment towards the cause of the Tourism sector. Thank you for your Resilience and hard work, and thank all our Members who have rallied behind us.

It is a milestone for all of us. Hard work is paying off and to all our Members, we celebrate you.

Cuthbert Ncube
Chairman African Tourism Board

Read more: African Union and African Tourism Board to sign MOU

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eTurboNews:

African continent had celebrated six decades of independence under the umbrella of the African Union, with high expectations for brighter economic prosperity and tourism development.

The continent had celebrated on Thursday this week 60 years of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and its successor, the African Union.

The 60th Anniversary celebration of AU has been observed under the theme “Our Africa, Our Future”.

OAU was formed on 25 May, 1963 when 32 heads from independent African States met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, along with leaders from African liberation movements and created a political and economic roadmap that paved a way for Africa’s complete independence and political and economic development.

Heads of the independent African states formed the OAU with a vision of pan-Africanism and United Africa that would be free to control of its own destiny and resources.

In 1999, the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the OAU convened an extraordinary session to expedite the process of economic and political integration in Africa.

On 9 September, 1999, the Heads of State and Government of the OAU issued “The Sirte Declaration” calling for the establishment of an African Union.

In 2002 during the Durban Summit, the African Union (AU) was officially launched as the successor to the Organization of African Unity.

The celebration of the 60th anniversary is an opportunity to recognize the role and contribution of the founders of the continental organization and many other Africans on the continent and in the diaspora, working hard to foster political and economic development in Africa.

With a vision of “Africa We Want” under the continent’s Agenda 2063, African states are currently encouraging each other to reflect the Pan-Africanism spirit for the continent’s future.

Rich in tourism and natural resources for tourist development, Africa stands as the future destination for global tourists and leisure travelers.

Through his message to mark the Africa Day 2023, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary General Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili said that Africa is a vast and diverse continent, with vibrant cities and rich cultures.

“Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, as well as to a rapidly expanding middle class Africa is also a hub of entrepreneurship and innovation and boasts some of the most exciting tourism destinations on the planet”, said the UNWTO Secretary General.

“For many millions of people across the continent, tourism is a real lifeline. But the sector’s potential is still to be truly realized. Managed properly, tourism can accelerate socio-economic recovery and growth. It can spur wealth creation and inclusive development”, Pololikashvili said.

The removal of tariff barriers and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area undoubtedly brings new opportunities for Africa.

Facilitating the free movement of individuals for business, for work or for studies, will help reduce economic disparities between regions, and deliver more opportunities, particularly for the most vulnerable, including women, who form the majority of the tourism workforce.

At the same time, regional collaboration and harmonized aviation policies in line with the Single African Air Transport Market will help us achieve the objectives of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the UN Agenda 2030.

“We have also realigned our UNWTO Agenda for Africa: Tourism for Inclusive Growth. It aims to directly support our Member States responding to the current challenges of tourism, particularly the need for more trained workers, more decent jobs and more and better-targeted tourism investments”, he said.

“Above all, we will continue to advocate for tourism as driver for positive change and a pillar of economic growth for the continent. On behalf of everyone at UNWTO, I wish you all a happy Africa Day”, concluded the UNWTO Secretary General through his message.

The Galilee International Management Institute of Israel had sent a message and said that Africa Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate the strong and thriving ties between Galilee Institute and the entire African Continent.

Read more: Africa Marks Six Decades of Political Independence

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eTurboNews:

Chinese tourists are eyeing Tanzania, attracted by abundant wildlife resources, the warm beaches of Zanzibar, cultural and historical heritage sites in both – the mainland and the island.

Other than the traditional European and American tourist markets, Tanzania is now eyeing Chinese tourists, mostly ‘photographic’ holidaymakers, to explore the country’s wildlife parks.

China’s fast growing and lucrative outbound travel market has about 150 million Chinese tourists traveling outside their country every year.

Tanzanian Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism had asked the Chinese Embassy in Dar es Salaam to devise joint strategies that would help to reach various parts of China and facilitate travel between China and Tanzania.

Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Mohamed Mchengerwa, held discussions earlier with the Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania, Chen Mingjian, and said Tanzania aims to attract more Chinese visitors to its most attractive tourist sites.

Mr. Mchengerwa said that China alone could help Tanzania to reach its target of five million tourists by the year 2025, banking on the strong Chinese outbound tourist market.

Data from the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) indicates that about 45,000 tourists from China are expected to visit Tanzania by the end of this year (2023), up from about 35,000 Chinese tourists currently recorded per year, mostly business travelers.

Tanzania is among eight African countries which have been approved by the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA) in Beijing as tourist destination for Chinese travelers.

Other African tourist destinations working on attracting Chinese visitors are Kenya, Seychelles, Zimbabwe, Tunisia, Ethiopia, Mauritius, and Zambia.

Tanzania is currently implementing an aviation agreement with China for Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) to operate direct flights between Tanzania and China, from Dar es Salaam to Guangzhou.

The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has recognized China as an upcoming major source of outbound tourists in the world.

A group of about 40 Chinese tourism business executives are currently in Tanzania on familiarization tour of Zanzibar beaches, wildlife parks, cultural and historical sites, developing strategies of attracting Chinese holidaymakers and tourism sector investments.

The Chinese tourism executives are expected to hold business discussions with the Tanzanian tourist counterparts, aiming to get to know each other, then create partnerships between the Chinese and Tanzanian tourism players.

Read more: Chinese Tourists Eyeing Tanzania for Wildlife Safaris

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eTurboNews:

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) entered between the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) and GreenCop Development PTE, Ltd., a Singapore-registered company, will develop the carbon-offset project as they seek to hook a share of the carbon credit billions to bankroll conservation of a territory covering 2.4 million hectares in Southern Tanzania.

The voluntary carbon offset project that promises substantial new green jobs and multi-million-dollar in revenue will implement measures to avoid greenhouse gas emissions and sequester carbon from the atmosphere on the globally renowned ecosystem comprising Selous, Msanjeni, and Kilombero game reserves.

“The partners in this MOU are joined by a shared vision to secure the long-term financial viability of the Selous, Msanjesi, and Kilombero game reserves by protecting nature and addressing climate change, whilst generating financial and economic benefits for local community by selling carbon credits on the international voluntary carbon market,” said TAWA Conservation Commissioner, Mr. Mabula Nyanda, who signed on behalf of the government, while the GreenCop CEO, Mr. Jean-Jacques Coppee, signed for the investors.

High-quality carbon credits are generated through conservation, restoration, and improved management of Tanzania’s forests and other natural resources.

The sale of such credits will generate additional funds to support sustainable development locally.

The project’s responsiveness to the needs and concerns of members of local communities, who will participate in its design and implementation, is critical to its success, reads part of the MOU document seen by eTurboNews.

The communities will directly benefit from the distribution of revenues generated by the sale of carbon credits in line with the applicable Tanzanian laws, regulations, and guidelines.

The project is also expected to stimulate the local economy by providing employment opportunities, funding educational and health initiatives, and developing the use of renewable energies as well as other social-economic programs.

This voluntary carbon offset project will contribute to achieving Tanzania’s international commitments under the Paris Agreement (Nationally Determined Contributions, NDC), and under the High Ambition Coalition’s 30×30 target (30% of land and sea protected areas by 2030).

The project also directly conforms to Tanzania’s National Environmental Master Plan for Strategic Interventions 2022-2032.

GreenCop Development aims to become a leader in the voluntary carbon credit market

The main purpose is to accelerate global transition to a de-carbonized economy by developing environmental assets, nature-based solutions, and register carbon removal projects using latest methodologies. It acts as a proponent for developments and funding opportunities promoting conservation of wildlife while generating economic opportunities for the local population.

The Selous Voluntary Carbon Offset Project has a symbolic significance since GreenCop Development’s management has worked to conserve the Selous game reserve alongside TAWA since 2004. GreenCop Development possesses a long-standing knowledge of the Selous and high expertise of wildlife conservation in the Selous and broader Tanzania.

To successfully design, finance, and develop the project, GreenCop Development has appointed Posaidon Capital AG, a leading global advisory firm on green finance, as its advisor in implementing the project and Tanzania Victory Attorneys and Consultants as a key local advisor. Posaidon Capital AG, a leading capital markets and asset management firm exclusively focused on advising and investing in natural capital is the technical advisor for the project’s development and implementation.

This MOU and the development of the Selous Voluntary Carbon Project (SVCP) to follow marks a significant development in Tanzania’s opportunity for responding in a holistic and strategic manner to challenges posed by climate change through nature conservation and sustainable development.

Dr. Hassan Abbas, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, witnessed the ceremony held on May 18, 2023, at the National College of Tourism in Dar es Salaam on behalf of the Minister, Mr. Mohamed Mchengerwa.

Also, in attendance at the ceremony from the government were the Chairman of TAWA Board of Directors, Major General (retired) Hamis Semfuko; Professor Eliakim Zahabu, Coordinator for National Carbon Monitoring Centre; and Professor Suzana Augustino, member of the TAWA Board of Directors.

Mr. Mchengerwa said in a speech read on his behalf by the Permanent Secretary:

“Tanzania stands a great opportunity for benefiting from the emerging carbon market.”

About 307,800 square kilometers – the equivalent of 32.5% – of  the land area with wildlife, forests, and wetland resources the ministry mandated to protect, forms strata for carbon sequestration to reduced carbon from the atmosphere as well as global warming, he said.

“The resources attract investment in carbon trading as an international initiative to mitigate the impact of climate change,” the Minister explained.

Read more: Tanzania Developing Africa’s Largest Carbon Offset Project

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eTurboNews:

TAAG CEO Eduardo Fairen shares his insights on innovative air finance strategies at the 31st African Aviation Summit. The event, held under the theme Air Finance Strategies for Recovery and Growth took place from May 10th to May 12th, 2023, at The Bill Gallagher Room, Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa, and attracted prominent players in the African aviation industry.

One of the most significant changes for airlines post-COVID is the increased reliance on government aid and loans with only limited government grants available in Africa. That means African airlines increasingly need to be inventive in their approach to financing.

In a special one-on-one interview, which took place on Thursday, May 11, 14h00-14h40, Fairen shared his insights on air finance strategies for African aviation players. He discussed the critical role that TAAG plays as an international connector linking South Africa to Latin America, Europe, and West Africa via the Luanda hub, as well as the company’s growing cargo business in the South African market.

Fairen also touches on the debate over state-owned versus privatized airlines, which has been an ongoing topic in the aviation industry for many years. This discussion is of particular importance to airlines operating in Africa, as the majority of them are state-owned. He discusses the different strategies that airlines can use to expand their reach and increase their market share via either organic growth and codeshares and alliances.

Attendees can expect to gain invaluable insights from Fairen, a seasoned aviation executive with over 40 years of experience. His extensive experience in the aviation industry spans across four continents, holding senior positions in companies such as Iberia, Lufthansa, and DHL. Additionally, Eduardo was the Co-Founder of Vueling Airlines in 2004 and, most recently, served as CEO of Viva Air Peru.

The 31st African Aviation Summit, Air Finance Africa 2023, is a significant event that explores the current state of the aviation industry and the strategies necessary for recovery and growth. As one of the major players in the African aviation industry, TAAG’s participation in the event highlights its commitment to the African aviation industry and dedication to providing innovative solutions to support the recovery and growth of the industry.

TAAG Angola Airlines is proud to be a part of this event and is committed to supporting the growth and development of the aviation industry in Africa.

Read more: TAAG Recovery Strategies at African Aviation Summit

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TAAG Angola Airlines will provide greater mobility options to its passengers and customers, following the market demand upon the recent codeshare agreement between TAAG Angola flagship company and GOL, the leading airline in Brazil.

The company is adding a new frequency to the Luanda – Sao Paulo connection, resulting in six weekly flights overall.

The new frequency will be added on Wednesday and will be operated by a Boeing 777 aircraft following the regular night flight departure from the Luanda International Airport.

On this route, the average load factor is 73%, a positive reference within the civil aviation benchmark. Ticket sales are already open, and passengers benefit from special conditions for purchases made exclusively via the TAAG website.

More than a point-to-point link, Sao Paulo and Luanda are positioned as connection hubs between Latin America, Africa, and Europe, with growing transatlantic demand of passengers, from tourists, families, and the business segment, who use TAAG for transit.

TAAG Angola Airlines is committed to continually improving customer service, providing families and the corporate segment with greater connection availability covering destinations with high demand.

Read more: More Luanda to Sao Paulo Flights on TAAG Angola and GOL

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eTurboNews:

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the Focus Africa Conference will delve into six priorities under IATA’s Focus Africa initiative to strengthen aviation’s contribution to the continent’s economic and social development and improve connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers. Focus Africa is taking place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 20-21 June 2023, with Ethiopian Airlines as the host airline.

“Over the next 15 years, Africa’s passenger traffic is expected to double. The continent stands out as the region with the greatest potential and opportunity for aviation. But this potential is limited by infrastructure constraints, high costs, lack of connectivity, regulatory impediments, slow adoption of global standards and skills shortages, among other factors. The Focus Africa Conference will bring together the continent’s key stakeholders to address these challenges,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, will deliver an Opening Keynote Address. “We are delighted to host IATA’s Focus Africa Conference and welcome the aviation industry to our home, Addis Ababa. Advancing the air transport industry is critical for Africa’s economic growth. The conference will allow industry leaders to join forces and drive the Focus Africa initiative,” said Tasew.

Speakers & Sessions

Walsh, Tasew, and Kamil Alawadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice-President for Africa and Middle East will be speaking at the event along with:

• Yvonne Makolo, CEO RwandAir and Chair of the IATA Board of Governors (2023-2024)
• Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General, African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC)
• Abdulrahman Berthe, Secretary General, African Airlines Association (AFRAA)
• Aaron Munetsi, CEO, Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA)
• Rodger Foster, CEO Airlink
• Poppy Khoza, Director General Civil Aviation, South African Civil. Aviation Authority (SACAA)
• Bradley Mims, Deputy Administrator, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

Session tracks will address:

• Safety
• Aeronautical information management
• Intra-African connectivity
• Airport infrastructure
• Biometrics and security
• Modern airline retailing
• Sustainability
• Skilled workforce

The International Air Transport Association is a trade association of the world’s airlines founded in 1945. IATA has been described as a cartel since, in addition to setting technical standards for airlines, IATA also organized tariff conferences that served as a forum for price fixing.

Consisting in 2023 of 300 airlines, primarily major carriers, representing 117 countries, the IATA’s member airlines account for carrying approximately 83% of total available seat miles air traffic. IATA supports airline activity and helps formulate industry policy and standards. It is headquartered in Montreal, Canada with executive offices in Geneva, Switzerland.

Read more: IATA: Aviation Contributes to Development of Africa

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This morning Visit Portugal left the World Travel and Tourism Council based on not yet confirmed information from a whistleblower within the WTTC structure.

The current situation is unhealthy for WTTC and the Global Travel and Tourism Industry.

African American WTTC Chairman Arnold Donald has not responded to the crisis unfolding at the London HQ.

After Cuthbert Ncube, Chairman of the African Tourism Board, called on WTTC to solve its internal issues, now Alain St. Ange, former minister of Tourism for Seychelles and a Vice President in charge of government relations for the World Tourism Network, is urging the WTTC Chairman Mr. Arnold Donald to take ownership of the situation.

Hon. Alain St. Ange speaks out on the WTTC Crisis

The news about WTTC and the resignation of influential private sector members is troubling. I am sure it’s even more troubling to active players in the broader tourism community. “

It’s even more surprising after WTTC finished the largest and most successful summit in Riyadh with a message of unity.”

WTTC commands an important position as the body where the major private sector meets government representatives and agrees on strategies outside the official political stand. This is opening the needed dialogue for a more conducive tourism industry.

Any family faces challenges, but it cannot be allowed to disrupt the core fabric of the family base.

The WTTC situation may spell disaster.

Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio leaving WTTC after 20 years of active membership should be more than a wake-up message.

Many in the industry supported Manfredi’s ambition to take over the next chairmanship of the Council. It is troubling to hear from a friend that even though a majority for this support was already voted for at the April board meeting, and dismissed by a technicality. Of course, this creates tension.

Manfredi also spoke for Africa at the World Travel and Tourism Council. With the upcoming WTTC Summit in Rwanda, the news of his resignation united African Tourism in seeing this as a major step backward.”

WTTC must remain a global leader with stakeholders in all parts of the globe.

It would be equally sad if WTTC lost this diversity and inclusivity. This may cause more members to no longer see the value of belonging to this global organization.

The COVID pandemic, followed by the Russia – Ukraine war, has impacted the tourism industry, and stability is needed more than ever.

Everyone knows that the situation WTTC is now facing will not disappear by itself. We need the tourism fraternity to rally, talk and save the organization that had grown to be the voice of the private sector trade and the motor behind tourism.

The coming Rwanda Summit plans to have more private sector trade coming forward to sit and meet Government Officials.

We need to save the Rwanda Summit.

The World Tourism Network suggests that the African Tourism Board take a leadership role so that Africa can speak with a clear and powerful voice.

Do it to Africa, for tourism and the economies of the world — save WTTC.

Hon. Alain St. Ange, former minister of Tourism Seychelles, VP World Tourism Network

Read more: The WTTC Situation Could Spell Disaster says Alain St. Ange

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eTurboNews:

UNWTO began in 1925 as the International Congress of Official Tourist Traffic Associations. The International Union of Official Travel Organizations (IUOTO) was renamed in 1947. It was reorganized in 1975 as the World Tourism Organization, which became a UN Specialized Agency in 2003.

The UNWTO is headquartered in Madrid, Spain. UNWTO is governed by its General Assembly, which meets every two years.

Nigerian Lucky George is an icon in the African travel and tourism industry, a long-time publisher of African Travel Times, the Executive Director at the African Travel Commission [ATC], and one of the first members of the World Tourism Network.

Juergen Steinmetz is the publisher of eTurboNews and the founder and chairman of the World Tourism Network. He is also the Hon. founding chairman of the African Tourism Board. Lucky George and Juergen Steinmetz gave the keynote opening speeches at the launch of the African Tourism Board in 2018 in Capetown.

Both publishers have a decades-long history following UNWTO, the World Tourism Organization.

Lucky George is the man behind World Tourism Day. He shared his fascinating story with Juergen Steinmetz in a public conversation last week entitled “It’s Time To Reform The United Nations World Tourism Organisation.”

Lucky explained:

Due to the disconnect between the United Nations World Tourism Organisation [UNWTO], a specialized agency of the United Nations in the field of travel and tourism since 2003, and some of its members, I, Lucky Onoriode George, 2006 Winner of the European Commission Lorenzo Natali Prize for Journalists Reporting Human Rights and Democracy engaged Juergen Steinmetz, Publisher, eTurboNews on the way forward for the UNWTO.

Here is a transcript of this conversation

Lucky George:  Good morning, Juergen

Juergen Steinmetz: Good evening, George from Hawaii. How are you?

Lucky George:  Lagos is fine.

Juergen Steinmetz: I’ve never been to Lagos. I made it to Abuja once and was there for the Commonwealth Tourism Conference. It was a really good experience, I have to say, and I loved the way the women dressed in their colorful clothes. Also, the men, I mean, everyone dressed well, and it’s really like a different world.

Lucky George: Juergen, I guess you enjoyed your stay overall besides that, the people are very colorful and flamboyant.

Juergen Steinmetz: One thing that has stuck in my head since that visit and a significant lesson is that I will never have a desert in the dark anymore.

We were at the Abuja Sheraton Hotel for dinner, and your minister was speaking, and they had problems with the electricity. When the electricity went off, I was at the buffet trying to get a dessert. In the dark, I grabbed something, thinking it was a desert, and put it into my mouth for a bite. It was a glass thing, and I almost screamed after biting on it in the dark.

Lucky George: What a terrible experience.

Juergen Steinmetz: I will never forget that moment and swore never to try such an exercise in the dark again.

Lucky George: I think it’s a good idea.

Juergen Steinmetz: Desserts aren’t good anyway, you know, they have too much sugar, and it’s not good, so forget it.

Lucky George: Absolutely. Yeah.

Juergen Steinmetz:  I guess we were going to discuss the United Nations World Tourism Organization [UNWTO] as you requested, do we?

Lucky George: Yes, Juergen!
You and I know the UNWTO very well, but few people know the history. However, in fact, I was privileged to have been introduced to a man known as Ignatius Amaduwa Atigbi, former Secretary General of the then Nigeria Tourist Association, now the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation [NTDC], an apex tourism agency in Nigeria.

I became his student because I was willing to listen to his stories of how he began his career as a journalist with Reuters in West Africa and later to Fleet Street in London.

From there on, I was educated on the history and the formation of the UNWTO and, the institutionalization of the World Tourism Day Celebration, the formation of the United Nations in Acapulco, Mexico, in 1970.

True, the African Travel Commission [ATC], which decided that their members should continue to receive government support, the status of the International Union of Official Travel Organisation [IUOTO] based in France must change.

How was UNWTO formed?

The members agreed to it, and the chair asked if any lawyer was in the house to guide them. Behold, the only lawyer present was a Nigerian named Odubayo, a staff member of the Nigerian Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

He drafted an agreement that was voted on by members. By 2 am on September 27th, 1970, the motion of renaming IOUTO to the World Tourism Organisation [WTO] was adopted.

Juergen Steinmetz: I didn’t know that. That’s so fascinating.

Lucky George: Yes. And I have the documents, the minutes of meetings.

Juergen Steinmetz: Wow, it’s all new to me.
But you have been in the travel and tourism business longer than I have. I started in the travel business in 1978, but I was more in the practical part. I wasn’t involved in organizations.

My first job was in Morocco, in Africa. I was a tour guide, not a tour guide, but I sold land arrangements to German tourists on a cruise ship for Morocco. So that was my very first job. So, I had no worries with the board and tourism organization.

How did World Tourism Day Started?

Lucky George: That is the story and journey of today’s UNWTO. However, by 1971 in Ankara, Turkey, at the XXII General Assembly Meeting of IUOTO, the African Commission, under the leadership of Nigeria’s Ignatius Amaduwa Atigbi, proposed that September 27th, being the date that transformation of IUOTO to WTO was made possible be set aside and commemorated annually as World Tourism Day.

So, the idea is to commemorate the achievement and look at the necessary adjustments that need to be made.

Juergen Steinmetz: Interesting!

Lucky George: Despite this firsthand account story, there was no document to corroborate the tourism agency’s voices. 

We don’t have any of the documents. So, I took it as a challenge, and I decided to travel from Lagos to Spain on a visit.

Then luckily for me, I have been communicating with a Slovenian guy who was the head of the UNWTO communications department at that time.

I wrote to him and informed him of my intention to come to Spain to seek evidence that Atigbi was the man who proposed the celebration of World Tourism Day in his capacity as the Chairman of the African Travel Commission [ATC].

He was skeptical, though, but he promised to help me once I arrived in Madrid, which was precisely what he did.

We’re looking at the minutes of meetings. Luckily, we first stumbled upon a copy of the minutes of the meeting of 1971 in French, where the history was well documented, and behold; we also located the English version.

That was how I returned home (Nigeria) to the tourism agency and the ministry with my findings. In summary, I instigated that a letter be written to the Secretary General of the UNWTO at that time and demand that the African guy deserves to be remembered and celebrated.

Gladly, there was no objection to Nigeria’s call, and UNWTO, under Secretary General Dr. Taleb Rifai, wrote back to the ministry and promised to honor Late Ignatius Amaduwa Atigbi at the 2009 International World Tourism Day Celebration that was hosted by Ghana.

The Story Behind UNWTO and World Tourism Day

Juergen, that was the story behind the UNWTO and World Tourism Day Celebration.

Juergen Steinmetz: Incredible!

Lucky George: To cap it all, the Nigerian government, through the Federal Ministry of Culture and Tourism, congratulated me and the sum of N200.000. You know I love African tourism, and I guess you still recollect my Zimbabwe exploits.

And, of course, you knew very well when the trouble started in Zimbabwe, I was the one that was contacted by the Chief Executive Officer of Zimbabwe Tourism Authority [ZTA], the late Karigoke Kaseke, who wanted me to come to Zimbabwe with some journalists from around the world.

Juergen Steinmetz: Sure!

Lucky George: I invited you, as the Publisher of eTurboNews, to come, but you eventually sent your Editor in Chief at that time, Nelson Alcantara, and we were in Zimbabwe for 18 days.

Then two or three years later, Zimbabwe co-hosted the UNWTO General Assembly Meeting with Zambia at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Livingstone in Zambia.

That massive turn of events was because of the groundwork that you and I used our platforms to change.

Again, sadly, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority and the ministry failed to pay me the balance of the agreed fee for my services. Shameful!!!

The CNN Task Group and eTurboNews

Juergen Steinmetz: You know my story well with the UNWTO and CNN Task Group. We were the ones who brought CNN into the picture because Anita Mendiratta, who was based in Cape Town, South Africa, didn’t know many of the other people, and we started introducing her to people.

Though, the idea was really that at the end, we were going to get major advertising and thought, this is great.

CNN did well. Anita wrote many excellent articles on eTurboNews. We profiled organizations, initiatives, and individuals. But unfortunately, we never got any share in the advertising.

Lucky George: I know Anita Mendiratta very well. Our last encounter was a bitter one in the Gambia. I saved the Gambia $1.5 million in World Bank tourism funding that the country director was willing to part with for a bogus publicity contract with CNN that I wrestled.

Anyway, that is a story for another day.

Juergen Steinmetz: Yeah, yeah, yeah. You know my story with UNWTO.

Lucky George: Absolutely. Absolutely. The big question is how do we make the UNWTO function with other UN specialized agencies, where each continent would have tenured representatives like the World Health Organization [WHO] and International Labour Organisation [ILO] from all the continents instead of relying on career directors whose interest are their benefits.

Juergen Steinmetz: You are right.

Lucky George: All reputable UN agencies work closely with local and international media, including the UNWTO. They usually don’t pick up calls or reply to emails.

Juergen Steinmetz: No, they don’t.

Lucky George: It’s sad, but we cannot continue to tolerate the excesses of the UNWTO.

Juergen Steinmetz: You have a very valid point. I have had the same experience with them over the years.  Maybe mine has different reasons, but Marcelo Risi, the media guy, has not responded to anything ever since he got his new boss.

Since Zurab Pololikashvili took over, I have not had any phone calls.

UNWTO has banned me from attending their press conferences, specifically at the World Travel Market, where we are an official media partner, and I couldn’t attend. They had hired a bodyguard standing there with my photo in his hand to ensure I didn’t get into the hall.

So, they’re not inclusive in any way. They don’t like criticism, and they don’t respond to criticism. And I guess he (Zurab) can make any decision he wants. And no one cares.

It is sad because even when you look at the general assemblies and the other events they have, their members, many of the ministers, as you rightfully said, change all the time. The new ones from many countries don’t know what the old ministers did.

Lucky George:  So, Juergen, what do we do? Most African countries use UNWTO events as leisure trips and are paid for by their government, of which Nigeria is one.

Juergen Steinmetz: And it’s probably not only in Africa because there is a similar situation in many countries around the world, and if you don’t have the more prominent players, and I’m talking about the UK, the United States, Canada among others, the UNWTO will remain a ragtag agency of the UN.

Lucky George: It’s a mess.

Read more: Exposed! UNWTO 1971 Ankara Minutes on World Tourism Day

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eTurboNews:

Cuthbert Ncube, Chairman of the African Tourism Board, speaking also for the World Tourism Network Africa Chapter issued an open appeal directed to the Hon. Chairman, of the World Travel and Tourism Council, Arnold Donald.

Joint ATB and WTN Statement

There has been excitement all over Africa, in bringing the first World Travel and Tourism Council summit to our continent.

The 23rd World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit will take place in Kigali, Rwanda, 1st – 3rd November 2023 after it was officially announced in Riyadh in November.

The Rwanda Tourism community is already working hard to make this summit the best ever.

WTTC’s annual Global Summit is the most influential Travel & Tourism event on the calendar, and this year, industry leaders will once again gather with key government representatives to continue aligning efforts to support the sector’s recovery and move beyond to a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.

Manfredi Lefebvri, the Africa Chair for WTTC has been instrumental in reaching his hand out to Africa and bringing Rwanda forward to host this upcoming summit.

Equally CEO Julia Simpson has been seen as the influential woman leader in WTTC moving this event forward.

Recent news about Mr. Manfredi Lefebvre and with him Heritage Group operating Abercrombie and Kent Travel Group leaving the organization he proudly belonged to for more than 20 years is disturbing.

Recent news about the disagreements within the top leadership in WTTC in London and other members, staff and associates are equally alarming.

As agreed in Riyadh, the travel and tourism industry has to stand united, specially during the ongoing recovery from the COVID pandemic. This is even more important with armed conflicts spreading in Sudan.

African Tourism Board & World Tourism Network United

The African Tourism Board and the World Tourism Network Africa Chapter is appealing on all parties involved to resolve issues for the good of the organization and tourism as a sector.

WTTC Chair Arnold Donald had announced the Rwanda summit in Riyadh. This was met with great excitement at the Rwanda Development Board and tourism stakeholders in Rwanda and across the African continent.

Hosting such a world event comes with enormous costs for our tax payers and industry sponsors.

WTTC Chairman Arnold Donald

We appeal on Mr. Donald to immediately take ownership of the situation at WTTC and do whatever is necessary to resolve it.

All of us at the African Tourism Board, also speaking on behalf of the World Tourism Network global chairman Juergen Steinmetz, like to see the private and public sector of the tourism industry come together in Rwanda in September to celebrate a united global tourism industry.

Cuthbert Ncube, Chairman African Tourism Board

Read more: African Tourism Board calls for WTTC to Resolve Internal Issues

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Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has continued its global expansion with the opening of Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi, a unique hybrid property featuring 100 spacious deluxe hotel rooms and apartments in the Kenyan capital’s cosmopolitan Westlands neighbourhood.

Soft opened in March 2023 – with full inventory set to come online in the second half of the year – the new upper-midscale property is designed to meet the needs of business and leisure travellers and deliver high levels of comfort and convenience for short or extended stays in a prime location only 5km from the Central Business District.

Alongside 14 deluxe hotel rooms, 30 studio apartments, and 56 one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, the deluxe property features a convenient grab-and-go shop, a modern Italian-inspired all-day dining outlet called The Olive Restaurant, and a stylish rooftop bar named The Aviary Lounge. Here, guests can enjoy cocktails and creative bar snacks while soaking up stunning city views.

The property also boasts an ultra-modern rooftop gym, a heated swimming pool, well-equipped meeting rooms, and easy access to the numerous shopping centres and restaurants for which the Westlands neighbourhood is renowned.

The Nairobi National Park – the only national park in the world within a capital city – is just a 45-minute drive from the property, and the hotel’s team is on hand to help guests arrange day trips for the chance to spot lions, buffaloes, leopards, rhinos, and other big game.

“We are delighted to officially open the doors of Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi and welcome guests and residents to experience our distinctive brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality,” said the property’s General Manager, Mr Daniel Chao. “From our prime location to our spacious rooms and apartments to our vibrant restaurant and chic rooftop bar, our unique hybrid property has all the elements in place to deliver high levels of convenience, experience, and value for business and leisure travellers alike. Fully embracing the four pillars of Dusit Graciousness – Personalised Service, Locality, Well-being, and Sustainability – we look forward to bringing long-term, sustainable value to our broader community too.”

Dusit’s property portfolio spans 17 countries and comprises 49 hotels operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and more than 300 luxury villas under Elite Havens. More than 60 Dusit Hotels and Resorts are in the pipeline worldwide.

Read more: Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi Officially Opens

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eTurboNews:

The World Travel and Tourism Council needs to be resilient now. This is an emergency for WTTC as a pioneer in bringing the global private travel and tourism industry together, and the companies behind it.

Just two days ago eTurboNews was asking if WTTC and its CEO were in trouble? The answer to the troubling question unfortunately is a big YES.

On March 27, eTurboNews had predicted, that Vice Chair Manfredi Lefebvre would be the next chairman for WTTC. At that time the election for Chairman recommendation was expected at a board meeting that took place in April.

The election was taken off the agenda by the CEO for the April board meeting, leaving the recommendation for chairman open. The next WTTC Summit is scheduled in Rwanda for September, where the confirmation for the next chairman will be decided. This was reported on eTurboNews earlier this week.

Today Manfredi Lefebvre together with Heritage Group. the majority of stakeholders in Abercrombie Kent, canceled their membership and resigned from the World Travel and Tourism Council in a surprise development.

Correction

ETurboNews reported first that Silversea is owned by Mr. Lefebvre. This is incorrect.
Silversea was founded by the Lefebvre family in the early ‘90s as a pioneering cruise line offering a personal style of ultra-luxury travel, unrivalled in the world.
In June 2018, two-thirds of Silversea was sold to Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited for an amount in excess of $1 billion in equity value. 
According to its director of communication Jonathon Fishman, who contacted eTurboNews in response to this article, Royal Caribbean Cruises is a member of WTTC and did not cancel its membership.

Mr. Lefebvre was also the Africa Chair and instrumental in bringing the first WTTC summit to Rwanda later this year.

His resignation could mean dark clouds may be on the horizon for the 2023 summit in Rwanda. Canceling the Rwanda summit may be a tsunami for the African travel and tourism world.

American Express Corporate Travel, a key member in WTTC also said good bye.

eTurboNews was told about a list of 20 members. According to a whistleblower these members already decided to resignation as members. Such announcements may be forthcoming as early as next week.

This may trigger an even bigger avalanche.

For many years, stakeholders and governments in the tourism world accepted WTTC was speaking for the private industry, while the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) was representing governments, the public sector.

If the current exodus in WTTC continues, it may very well be fatal for the organization.

A major shift on how public and private partnerships in travel and tourism may be the result.

Under the current WTTC CEO Julia Simpson, the interaction between private and public sector was already outsourced.

According to inside information WTTC CEO Julia Simpson, and Virginia Messina, SVP Advocacy & Communication, Vice Chair Jerry Noonan are being seen by many of treating members and staff disrespectful.

Manipulation, incompetence, LGBTQ discrimination, bullying, are some of the trigger words heard. Obviously WTTC lost its direction. Some say the organization became too British and can no longer operate as a global player.

Perhaps with Julian Simpson as a board member of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), there is a conflict of interest.

According to the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) , they are the very center of London’s business community. LCCI supports their members, make connections to spark new opportunity, and champion the needs and interests of London businesses at home and abroad.

At a time when unity in the travel and tourism industry is more important than ever, this unity seems to be falling apart at WTTC in London.

Read more: Is WTTC Falling Apart? Mass Exodus of Members in Progress

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eTurboNews:

Dusit International opened the Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi, a unique hybrid property featuring 100 spacious deluxe hotel rooms and apartments in the Kenyan capital’s cosmopolitan Westlands neighborhood.

Soft opened in March 2023 – with complete inventory set to come online in the second half of the year – the new upper-midscale property is designed to meet the needs of business and leisure travelers and deliver high levels of comfort and convenience for short or extended stays in a prime location only 5km from the Central Business District. 

Alongside 14 deluxe hotel rooms, 30 studio apartments, and 56 one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, the property features a convenient grab-and-go shop, a modern Italian-inspired all-day dining outlet called The Olive Restaurant, and a stylish rooftop bar named The Aviary Lounge.

A rooftop gym, a heated swimming pool, well-equipped meeting rooms, and easy access to the numerous shopping centers and restaurants for which the Nairobi Westlands neighborhood is renowned.

Source:dusit-international.com

Read more: Sawadee meets Jambo in the new Dusit Princess Hotel Nairobi

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Protea Hotels by Marriott and Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, have unveiled Orlando Pirates F.C. themed hotel rooms, designed to give football enthusiasts a unique and immersive hospitality experience.

Available at the Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott® Johannesburg Melrose Arch, the Orlando Pirates-themed rooms are a must-visit for all fans of the club.

Created by local interior designer, Latoyah Mei, the room is adorned with symbolic black and white stripes showcasing the club’s proud heritage and success over the years. Guests will be welcomed with an iconic mural featuring some of the most legendary players to have graced the fields and hearts of many in the club’s history. Along with modern amenities, the rooms will also feature football memorabilia and natural elements to create a space that is minimal and contemporary.

The themed room serves as a creative celebration of local design, following a request to qualifying South African interior designers based on their experience and expertise, to partake in the Protea Hotels by Marriott and Marriott Bonvoy Orlando Pirates Room Designs. A shortlist of four designers were invited to submit their storyboards. Ultimately, Latoyah Mei founder of Lint Design House was the successful candidate and was selected by the partnership parties, as the official interior designer of the unique Orlando Pirates themed room. Mei’s inspiration was to create a nostalgic atmosphere for the room to evoke a “wow factor” feeling in fans.

“I was intentional about creating a space that is impactful and inspiring, evoking emotions that delivers a memory in one’s mind while experiencing a space. The mural is one of my favourite elements of the room – it really captures the rich history of the Buccaneers and Soweto in an amazing way,” Latoyah Mei comments. “It is really important to me that with each stay, supporters can appreciate something new when they look around the room.”

“The Orlando Pirates-themed rooms at the Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! By Marriott® Johannesburg Melrose Arch offer an immersive and memorable experience that we believe will be cherished by our members and fans,” commented Sean Maher, Market Vice President, South Africa, Marriott International.

“Plans for more themed rooms across the country are underway and we look forward to unveiling these new experiences to our guests soon,” adds Maher.

“We are proud to align ourselves with Marriott Bonvoy, our accommodation partner. Orlando Pirates is a distinct and iconic brand not only in South Africa but also in the African continent and beyond. The Skull & Crossbones were a symbol of hope during the apartheid era and Orlando Pirates continues to be a beacon of hope to all our people,” said Thandi Merafe, the Club’s Media Director.

“We pride ourselves in aligning with brands who have a shared vision and aspiration to deliver excellence to our people. Our fans are the lifeblood of our Club, and we’re excited to offer them an experience that truly embodies the spirit and history in the home city of Orlando Pirates,” adds Merafe.

The launch of the themed rooms follows the announcement of Marriott Bonvoy’s exclusive multi-year partnership to become the official accommodation partner of Orlando Pirates Football Club last year. The partnership offers fans incredible opportunities to experience football in South Africa at a whole new level through unrivalled and exclusive access and events. Fans can now get 15% off standard rates when they book at participating hotels across South Africa.

The Orlando Pirates-themed rooms at the Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Johannesburg Melrose Arch are now available for booking.

Read more: Orlando Pirates F.C. Rooms at Marriott’s Protea Hotel

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eTurboNews:

Africa’s most thrilling and exciting music and entertainment event, FESTAC Africa, will take place at the Arusha International Conference Center, Tanzania in the next few days.

In less than two weeks, FESTAC Africa will be staged in Arusha, Tanzania’s northern tourist city with an array of arts, fashion, music, storytelling, poetry, film, short stories, travel, tourism, hospitality, food and dance through live performances from various countries in Africa and across the world.

FESTAC Africa 2023 will focus on Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) initiatives to ensure African culture in the long term is sustained and preserved in an eco-friendly way.

The festival is expected to bring cultural, hospitality and tourism experts to share insights on how Africa can offset its carbon footprint and also do a workshop to teach organizations how to report accurately on ESG.

Festival participants will have opportunities to experience the continent through travel and tourism and explore Arusha and Tanzania during the festival week.

They will also have opportunities to visit some of Africa’s leading wildlife parks, including the Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park and the spice island of Zanzibar or hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Supported by the African Tourism Board (ATB), FESTAC 2023 will be taking places from May 21 to 27 May, showcasing Africa’s richest cultures, all aiming to attract local and foreign tourists to visit the continent.

African heroes and heroines left their countries and went to exile in different countries in a quest to free Africa and her people from colonial rule, with the armed struggle as their weapon.

The event will also provide a platform for businesses to connect with the right network and a space for collaboration to showcase its latest products and services, connecting marketing professionals and buyers. About 100 to 150 exhibitors are expected at the festival.

“Africa is inviting you to Arusha, Tanzania to continue the fight for total emancipation of Africa, using a different weapon, by uniting her people through music, culture, heritage, tourism, business, networking, trade, hospitality and so much more”, the event organizers said.

The forthcoming FESTAC Africa 2023, Destination Arusha is the World’s Fourth Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture.

It will provide a space for collaboration and showcasing the latest products and services, connecting marketing professionals and buyers. It is all about connecting people with people, organizers said.

FESTAC Africa 2023 will also explore Tanzania’s spectacular landscapes and wildlife treasures on this exceptional safari adventure which lends itself perfectly to Great Migration experiences.

Apart from wildlife parks, participants will get a chance to experience and learn about Tanzania’s famous “Tanzanite gemstone” and the historical business city of Dar es Salaam or “Haven of Peace”.

Key and leading African personalities have aired their views over FESTAC 2023 event, wishing it great success during its weeklong staging.

“My vote has always been for diversity, hybridity, even mongrelisation, the dynamic crucible of the creative adventure. Mentally and spiritually, even long before Festac the First, I have always reserved a cabin on this vessel”, said Professor Wole Soyinka, Noble Prize Winner in Literature.

Zanzibar President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi noted that the event will bring together key personalities in arts, cultural heritage, tourism and leadership.

Former President of Nigeria Chief Olusegun Obasanjo had congratulated the FESTAC 2023 organizers and said that all have played a role in putting together this event.

Dr. Julius Garvey, the Chairman of Marcus Garvey Institute said: “At the heart of every society and every individual in that society is a belief system that shapes its ideas, culture, day-to-day activities and future goals”.

“This is derived from tradition, a history, and knowledge of past experience”, said Dr. Garvey.

Read more: FESTAC Africa Coming to Tanzania’s Arusha

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eTurboNews:

Eswatini Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Eswatini, has launched a new route between King Mswati III International Airport in Manzini, Eswatini, and King Shaka International Airport in Durban, South Africa. 

The route commenced operations on of May 5, 2023. The route will be operated by an Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft with a maximum capacity of 50 passengers, and initially, three flights per week will be available on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with plans to increase frequencies to seven times a week from June 2023, based on demand.

Speaking about the new route, Mr Siboniso Duma the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs and the leader of Government Business in KwaZulu-Natal said, “We are pleased to announce the launch of our new route between Eswatini and Durban. This route not only enhances the tourism potential between the two destinations but also strengthens trade relations. 

‘Eswatini is one of the key regional tourism markets and shares strong historical and cultural ties with the province of KwaZulu-Natal. Pre-pandemic, tourist arrivals from Eswatini averaged 290 000 per annum and in 2022 tourist arrivals demonstrated a strong recovery of 89%. This presents an exciting opportunity for Eswatini Air to grow as a partner in accelerating the recovery of tourism between the two destinations.” 

The introduction of this new route is expected to facilitate trade between KwaZulu-Natal and Eswatini, further strengthening the already strong economic relations between the two destinations. According to the World Bank, over 60% of exports from Eswatini come to South Africa, and over 80% of Eswatini’s imports come from South Africa. The new route will also provide a significant boost to the regional tourism market, with Eswatini being one of the key regional tourism markets and having strong historical and cultural ties with the province of KwaZulu-Natal.

Deputy Chairperson of Economic Development and Planning Committee in eThekwini, Councilor Phili Ndlovu said: “We are excited about the launch of this new route into Durban as we work to drive the recovery of our tourism sector. 

“As the eThekwini Municipality, we look forward to working closely with ESwatini Air, by creating awareness of the new route and providing support to the airline in an effort to demonstrate our commitment to strengthening relationships with our African counterparts and showing the socio-economic benefits of making tourism a priority in achieving a development agenda. Attracting more direct airlines to eThekwini remains key in order to boost tourism and trade.”

To celebrate the launch of the new route, the government of KwaZulu-Natal and Eswatini Air, hosted a delegation of 40 Eswatini dignitaries on board the inaugural flight, which included the Minister of Public Works and Transport, the Minister of Tourism, key media, and select tour operators, in order to facilitate both tourism and trade on the new route. 

Mr Nkosinathi Myataza, ACSA Regional General Manager at King Shaka International Airport concluded by saying “The inaugural flight reinforces the importance of the aviation industry and how it remains a key mode of transport, generating significant benefits for an economy, by enabling tourism and trade, more significant in the context of the IAfCTA. But more so, connecting friends and relatives of these two countries especially the KZN Region with a long history of fraternal relations. It can also not escape us that this is Africa month where we celebrate our continent.”

Read more: New Manzini to Durban Flight on Eswatini Air

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eTurboNews:

Member states of the East African Community are setting for joint and regional tourism promotion and development, aiming to raise the number of visitors and economic development of the region.

The East African Community (EAC) Secretariat had noted that tourism contributes about 10 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the region of which 17 percent are foreign exchange earnings and about seven percent is the counted-on employment in various tourist services.

Director of Productive Sectors at the EAC, Mr. Jean Baptiste Havugimana confirmed that during the just-ended seventh edition of Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo held at Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort in Uganda.

The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo that was staged in late April this year, had brought together the EAC Secretariat, all partner states regional tourism boards and the African Tourism Board (ATB).

The four-day event was officially opened by the Ugandan Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Colonel Tom Butime.

The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo is a tourism event organized by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) every year.

The expo had brought together tourism stakeholders and other service providers in tourism, targeting to meet new clients, network and discuss business deals with potential regional and international buyers.

The seventh edition of the Pearl of Expo had attracted over 150 exhibitors and more than 100 hosted buyers and media from different tourist source markets, including the US, UK, Canada, Switzerland, Australia, Poland, South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria among others.

The African Tourism Board was represented by its Executive Chairman Mr. Cuthbert Ncube who as well, participated at various events and activities during the Expo.

Together with ATB ambassadors, Mr. Ncube visited various tourist attractive sites in Uganda including the Chimpanzee Island on Lake Victoria.

ATB has been co-operating with the East African regional states in tourism development and promotion through participation to key events in East Africa and which is now an upcoming region for intra-Africa tourist destination.

The EAC Secretariat had encouraged partner states to participate in tourism promotional events organized by each and every partner state.

ATB has been the key participant to each national and regional tourism Expo through its Chairman, Mr. Ncube among its other brand ambassadors.

In his opening remarks to the Pearl of Africa Expo, the Ugandan Minister for Tourism Colonel Butime (Retired) had expressed his appreciation on behalf the government and people of Uganda to all the exhibitors as well as hosted buyers and media for attending the event.

He said that Uganda was endowed with unique and diverse attractions that appeal to the international, regional and domestic travelers.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Tourism Board, Dr. Lily Ajarova, said that Uganda and other EAC partner states are keen on promotion of sustainable and responsible tourism.

Director of Productive Sectors at the EAC, Mr Jean Baptiste Havugimana thanked the government of Uganda for inviting the EAC Secretariat and all the partner states to participate at the Expo in the spirit of the EAC integration.

Mr. Havugimana disclosed that the EAC Secretariat and the National Tourism Boards have been supported to participate at the Expo through facilitation of partner states’ delegates and procurement of exhibition booths.

The German International Cooperation Agency, GIZ, also supported the Expo through a Gold Sponsorship package.

He said that the EAC Treaty attaches a lot of importance to the tourism sector owing to the role it plays in the socio-economic development of the region.

Read more: East African States Set for Joint Tourism Promotion

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At 13:00 Central Africa Time today, Qatar Airways Cargo’s Moved by People Boeing 777 freighter landed at Kigali International Airport. In the company of local dignitaries, freight forwarders, partners, and customers, Qatar Airways Cargo’s Chief Officer, Guillaume Halleux, and Yvonne Makolo, Chief Executive Officer of RwandAir officially launched operations at the Kigali Africa Hub.

The Boeing 777 aircraft will fly from Doha to Kigali, twice a week. Since March, Qatar Airways Cargo has created an intra-Africa service between Kigali and Lagos (three times per week), and a weekly service from Istanbul via Doha to Kigali, all operated by an Airbus A310 aircraft. New destinations from Kigali will be announced soon.

In the run-up to the Kigali Cargo Hub launch, QAS Cargo, a subsidiary of Qatar Airways, provided consultancy support to RwandAir Cargo to help improve its cargo handling performance. A team from QAS Cargo visited the cargo handling facilities and presented RwandAir with a detailed action plan for operational improvements and handling performance. The team is now working together on a future roadmap, including a proposed improvement plan for its warehouse infrastructure, which will form part of a long-term strategic plan for the cargo division of RwandAir.

Guillaume Halleux, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways said: “Africa is one of the world’s fastest growing economies, yet for it to develop to its full potential requires investment in logistics infrastructures. Qatar and Rwanda have long-enjoyed bilateral trade agreements, with both Qatar Airways and Qatar Investment Authority having previously invested in Kigali International Airport and RwandAir. It was therefore a logical step that Qatar Airways Cargo supports RwandAir in its cargo ambitions. Our customers will benefit from both a reliable intra-African network through our Kigali hub, as well as enhanced service levels and cost synergies. We are proud to partner with RwandAir in establishing Kigali as the Central African hub in preparation for the Next Generation of air cargo on this fast-growing continent.”

Qatar Airways Cargo currently serves 28 cities in Africa with a mixture of freighter and belly-hold services, carrying up to 2,800 tons to and from Africa.

The launch of Qatar Airways Cargo’s first cargo hub outside Qatar, and in collaboration with RwandAir, creates a strong foundation on which to expand a future-oriented African air cargo network and meet the 3%-5% annual economic growth forecast for the continent over the next decade. More African destinations are due to be added to the network at a later stage.

Read more: Qatar Airways Cargo and RwandAir Launch Kigali Africa Hub

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eTurboNews:

Where are today’s leaders in the global travel and tourism industry in trying to prevent a human and economic disaster for Uganda’s vibrant travel and tourism industry? It appears only the World Tourism Network has been speaking out so far.

The UN’s High Commissioner for Human Rights asked Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni not to sign the bill passed by the Uganda parliament today.

UN Volker Türk called the Anti-Homosexuality Bill 2023 “draconian,” saying it would have negative repercussions on society and violate the nation’s constitution.

The United States added to international outrage over a hardline bill passed by Ugandan lawmakers that criminalize simply identifying as LGBTQ+, prescribes a life sentence for convicted homosexuals, and a death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality.”

If signed into law by the President, it will render lesbian, gay, and bisexual people in Uganda criminals simply for existing, for being who they are. It could provide carte blanche for the systematic violation of nearly all of their human rights and serve to incite people against each other.

Uganda’s parliament just passed a mostly unchanged version of one of the world’s strictest anti-LGBTQ+ bills after President Yoweri Museveni asked that specific provisions from the original legislation be toned down.

The first version of this bill passed in March, when the president asked for some changes.

President Museveni returned the bill to parliament last month, asking lawmakers to remove the duty to report and to introduce a provision to facilitate the “rehabilitation” of gay people. No such provision has been included in the amended bill.

A measure that obliged people to report homosexual activity was amended only to require reporting when a child is involved. Failure to do so is subject to five years in jail or a fine of 10 million Ugandan shillings.

A person (or hotel) who “knowingly allows for his or her premises to be used for acts of homosexuality” faces seven years in jail in this East African Country.

The amended bill also includes the death penalty for certain same-sex acts and a 20-year sentence for “promoting” homosexuality, which would include any advocacy for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer citizens in Uganda.

One of the bravest institutions in Uganda is the Metropolitan Community Church in Kampala.

The church says: “Our greatest moral value and resisting exclusion is a primary focus of our ministry.

We want to continue to be conduits of faith where everyone is included in the family of God and where all parts of our being are welcomed at God’s table.

The Metropolian Community Church in Kampala

Ironically conservative churches may be behind the sentiments against the LGBTQ communities in Uganda.

The article Foreign Policy entitled: How U.S. Evangelicals Helped Homophobia Flourish in Africa explains.

Anti-gay sentiment had previously existed on the continent, but white American religious groups have boosted it.

In 2018, Val Kalende, an LGBTQ+ rights activist who even went on a U.S. State Department-sponsored tour in 2010 for her activism, went on TV during a church service to renounce lesbianism. Kalende, in 2022 wrote an op-ed titled “Unchanged: A lesbian Christian’s journey through ‘ex-gay’ life,” in which she apologized to Uganda’s LGBTQ+ community for her renunciation.

Evangelic churches and Western money had been involved in Uganda in manufacturing and sustaining the ex-gay framework in more than subtle and symbolic ways. Evangelical preachers have traveled across Africa, verbalizing this harmful language.

Suppose the law passes the Uganda parliament for the second time and is signed into law by the President, it will render lesbian, gay, and bisexual people in Uganda criminals simply for existing, for being who they are.

“It could provide carte blanche for the systematic violation of nearly all of their human rights and serve to incite people against each other,” a CNN report says.

A new report published by the Institute for Journalism and Social Change, a new initiative set up by international journalists and activists, revealed that millions of dollars had been granted to groups such as the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU), the influential conservative religious group which has pushed for laws against homosexuality for over a decade.

On Twitter, some voices are very much in favor of this law, putting African pride as a reason to support it.

I think Africa should be allowed to make their own laws and demonize what they want to demonize.

Uganda makes us Great for all Africans Countries.

A group of leading scientists and academics from Africa and worldwide urged President Museveni to veto the bill, saying that “homosexuality is a normal and natural variation of human sexuality.”

Museveni has 30 days to either sign the legislation into law, return it to parliament for another revision, or veto it and inform the parliamentary speaker.

The bill will, however, pass into law without the president’s assent if he returns it to parliament for a second time.

Anita Among, the speaker of the Uganda parliament, said: “Today, parliament has gone again into the history books of Uganda, Africa, and the world, because it brought up the issue of homosexuality, the moral question, the future of our children, and protecting families.”

She asked MPs to “remain steadfast” in their commitments, adding that “no amount of intimidation will make us retract from what we have done. Let’s stand firm.”

Leading international travel and tourism organizations, such as WTTC and UNWTO, have long understood the importance of equality to include LGBTQ communities.

“Travel and tourism are associated with peace, equality, and human connection. Making it a crime to be gay, lesbian, or transgender, and making it a crime for just saying this was wrong is putting travelers visiting such a country in harm’s way unless a visitor is aware of this situation,” says Juergen Steinmetz, Chairman of the World Tourism Network.

“Tour operators and airlines should pledge they will warn travelers to Uganda once this anti-LGBTQ law is signed.”

World Tourism Network warns visitors to Uganda.

Only the World Tourism Network was directly outspoken in urging tour operators and airlines servicing Uganda to warn their clients about the new law once signed.

WTN’s chairman Juergen Steinmetz, who is also the publisher of eTurboNews, refused advertising and promotional articles to be published about Uganda for the time being.

The Ugandan writer and feminist Rosebell Kagumire warned in a tweet that the law could deny queer Ugandans housing, education, and “other fundamental rights” and could be used “by your enemies, and government included … against anyone”.

Flavia Mwangovya, Amnesty International’s deputy regional director, said: “The Ugandan president must immediately veto this law and take steps to protect the human rights of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Amnesty International also calls on the international community to urgently pressure the Ugandan government to protect the rights of LGBTI individuals in the country.”

Read more: UNWTO and WTTC remain still Silent, but WTN warns Travelers Already

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eTurboNews:

The World Tourism Network has set up a “Go funding” Page to assist one of their own – a member of WTN, also a known member of the international travel and tourism community.

He is a pioneer and dreamed of establishing Afghanistan as a travel destination.

Wanted Dead or Alive by the Taliban

He is wanted dead or alive by the ruling political force in his home country, the Taliban.

He contacted World Tourism Network VP Burkhard Herbote in Germany. Burkhard contacted WTN Chairman Juergen Steinmetz in the United States with his story.

The Story of a Tourism Pioneer in Afghanistan

I’m NAME LEFT OUT from Kabul, Afghanistan.

My organization was one of the few pioneers working since 2016 to help our country Afghanistan to become an international destination for tourists.

In 2021 after the collapse of our government, the Taliban initially pushed a propaganda story about tourism continuing.

We organized more than 700 travel agencies from all over Afghanistan to come together.

Of course, tourism companies had big limitations due to the situation in our country, but our group of a few pioneers made a big difference on the world stage.

After the Taliban took over our government in 2021, they banned all our activities regarding tourism.

I am from a small community in Afghanistan of Christians and Islamic people. The Taliban had been infiltrating spies into our community to find out who did not follow Islamic rule.

In reality, everyone, Christians and Muslims, is in real danger. I live in a basement with people I trust. I constantly move from basement to basement. I go out very seldom.

Those in our community that converted from Islam to Christianity committed the most severe crime under Taliban law. Suspicion alone is enough to get killed.

I haven’t met my wife and children for 16 months.

Most of us in the travel and tourism community escaped, and I no longer have contact with them.

The Taliban killed my elder brother in September 2021.
My family has received many subpoenas from the Taliban courts because of me.

They arrested me in December. Luckily they did not realize who I was.

I was in prison with others for three days without food and water, and it was freezing at zero degrees.

I felt it would be my last breath.

I am one of the few people with a valid passport and visa for another country (The country name was left out due to security concerns.)

There are only two choices to get out of Afghanistan. Both are dangerous, and time is essential.

I am also well aware of similar restrictions in the other country. I plan to travel too, but I hope God will show me the future way. After arrival, I will apply with the UN for an official reunification with my wife and little children. The Taliban want to show a good face to the United Nations, and I hope there are chances.

However, transportation and paying for security are substantial financial problems for me. Not just because it is hard to get foreign currency here but because I do not have the money.

I got 200 Dollars from my father-in-law to get the visa, and I have to return the money to him by the end of this month. I don’t know how. He also is not in an ideal financial situation like most people here.

To be able to go into a safer place, I have to get the airline ticket to LEFT OUT. This means I need to get at least 1000 Dollars as soon as possible. Of course, I would pay the money back as soon as I have a chance to do so.

Please also do not mention my name until I am at my destination and secure.

Also, for security reasons, I must delete this text after sending it to you and will always delete further communication.

Please let me know whether the World Tourism Network can help.

WTN was quick to issue this appeal to members everywhere:

World Tourism Network calls on members and the travel and tourism industry to support this member and his family and allow him to start a better life.

Juergen Steinmetz, Chairman World Tourism Network

WTN contacted a member in the receiving country who is willing to assist. This will ensure support for this Afghani WTN member once he reaches his destination. Funds will be needed to support this member until he gets back on his feet. Therefore WTN put a target of $2000.00 to the go founding initiative. Timing is essential because the receiving country also has restrictions when receiving money from many countries.

You can contribute to the WTN Members in Crisis SOS Fund:

eTurboNews will match any funding with a free advertising credit. World Tourism Network would provide a free membership to any non-member helping with this Emergency initiative.

The Taliban

The Taliban is a fundamentalist Islamic militant group that originated in Afghanistan in the early 1990s. The group’s ideology is based on a strict interpretation of Sunni Islam, and they seek to establish a government based on their interpretation of Islamic law, or Sharia law.

The Taliban rose to power in Afghanistan in 1996 after a period of civil war. They ruled the country until they were ousted by a US-led coalition in 2001 following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. During their rule, the Taliban enforced a harsh version of Sharia law, including restrictions on women’s rights and severe punishments for those who disobeyed their rules.

Since their ousting, the Taliban has continued to fight against the Afghan government and coalition forces, carrying out attacks and bombings in various parts of the country. In recent years, they have made significant gains and now control large swathes of the country.

In August 2021, the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan as the US and coalition forces withdrew after 20 years of military involvement.

The fall of Kabul, the Afghan capital, resulted in chaos and a mass exodus of Afghan citizens trying to flee the country. The Taliban has promised to form an inclusive government. Still, their actions since taking control have been met with international condemnation, with concerns about the safety and rights of women and minorities.

Afghanistan Tourism

Afghanistan has a rich history, diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and many attractions that could appeal to tourists. However, Afghanistan’s tourism industry has been severely affected due to years of war, political instability, and security concerns.

Kabul and Mazar-i-Sharif offer historical landmarks, such as the ancient Buddhas of Bamiyan, the Blue Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif, and the Kabul Museum, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts and art.

Afghanistan’s natural beauty is also a draw for tourists. The country has some of the world’s most breathtaking mountain ranges, including the Hindu Kush and the Pamir Mountains, and various wildlife, such as snow leopards and Marco Polo sheep.

Afghanistan is known for its traditional handicrafts, including textiles, carpets, pottery, and jewelry. Visitors can explore local markets and bazaars to purchase unique souvenirs.

Despite the potential for tourism in Afghanistan, safety and security concerns remain a significant challenge. It is essential for travelers to carefully consider the risks and take appropriate safety measures, including staying up-to-date on the latest travel advisories and consulting with trusted local guides.

Overall, while Afghanistan has the potential to be a fascinating destination for travelers, the current security situation in the country makes it a challenging destination for tourism.

For more information on World Tourism Network, membership, and the SOS Fund, go to www.wtn.travel

Read more: Travel Industry Pioneer Wanted by Taliban: A World Tourism SOS

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eTurboNews:

Research shows 12 African cities support and enables the arts, culture, and creative industries.

The 12 African cities that support and enable arts, culture, and creative industry include:

1. Johannesburg, South Africa
2. Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Kongo
3. Dakar, Senegal
4. Nairobi, Kenya
5. Tunis, Tunisia
6. Marrakech, Morocco
7. Luanda, Angola
8. Accra, Ghana
9. Cairo, Egypt
10. Lagos, Nigeria
11. Harare, Zimbabwe
12. Dar-Es-Salam, Tanzania

The index provides a comprehensive overview of the environment for artists and creative entrepreneurs in the twelve cities.

The cities were ranked based on availability and access to cultural venues and facilities, policies supporting the arts, and the cities’ capacity to promote culture.

The index provides much-needed data for investors, funders, creative entrepreneurs, and other sector stakeholders by offering valuable insights into the gaps in the creative and cultural landscape. In this regard, the index serves as a tool for decision-making by stakeholders in the creative and cultural industries. Future updates to the index will include additional cities and track changes in the cities already mapped. 

The Creative Vibrancy Index for Africa (CVIA) is funded by the narrative change organization, Africa No Filter, and the British Council. The Arab Fund for Arts and Culture and the World Cities of Culture Forum are part of the project’s advisory board, providing technical input. 

Moky Makura, Executive Director of Africa No Filter, said:

 “The availability and access to arts, culture, and creativity is increasingly the mark of a thriving city and developed economy.

For us at Africa No Filter, it is also a measure of the support and infrastructure provided to African storytellers to enable them to share their stories, grow audiences and build their sustainability as artists.

We were keen to understand how culturally vibrant the African creative sector is so we know if African stories are being heard.

This index will shine a much-needed spotlight on the state of the creative landscape in Africa and help us all advocate for more support for storytellers on the continent.

We have started with just 12 cities, but our aim is to do this across all major cities on the continent.”

Sandra Chege, Head of Arts Kenya, said: 

“We are excited to collaborate with Africa No Filter and the Creative Economy Practice at CcHUB to develop this important index. We look forward to engaging in the conversations and insight generated through this project on how cultural actors can strengthen the cultural infrastructure of African cities to create a more enabling environment for creative and cultural practitioners.” 

Ojoma Ochai, Managing Partner of the Creative Economy Practice at CcHUB, said: “The ranking of cities is not the main value add.

More important is using the comparative measurement to showcase good practice, inspire dialogue and stimulate more support for the sector.”

Read more: African Cities where arts, culture and creative industries is amazing

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eTurboNews:

This week, Tanzania Tourist Board has officially launched the seventh Edition of the premier Swahili International Tourism Expo (S!TE) to be staged in Tanzania’s commercial city of Dar-es-Salaam early in October of this year.

Branded with “Responsible Tourism for Inclusive Growth”, the two-day expo will take place from October 6 to October 8 at the famous Mlimani City grounds in Tanzania’s commercial capital.

Tanzania Tourist Board’s Director General Mr. Damas Mfugale said this week that the event will focus on inbound and outbound travel to and within Africa, aiming to draw tourism and travel professional from all corners of the world.

The event’s goal is to promote Tanzania’s tourism to international markets and facilitate linking of companies based in Tanzania, Eastern and Central Africa with tourism companies from other parts of the world.

The exhibition will be styled as a business networking event for the tourism industry, with components of social dimensions to attract local people, families and experts during the weekend.

Mr. Mfugale said that about 200 exhibitors are expected to participate the event as well as international 150 hosted buyers from key and leading tourist markets mostly from the United States of America (USA), Germany, France, the Netherlands, United Kingdom and Italy.

Other hosted buyers and exhibitors are expected from Canada, Brazil, South Africa, Spain, Poland, India, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Canada, Turkey, Kenya, Russia, Czech Republic and China, among other nations.

Established in 2014, the Swahili International Tourism Expo had grown from 40 exhibitors to 170 last year, while the number of international buyers has increased to 333 from the initial 24 when established eight years ago.

The forthcoming tourism expo is part of Tanzania’s tourism development under the government’s adopted Five Year Development Plan (FYDP) Three spanning from 2021 to 2025 of which Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) has been placed to be a new tourist product in Tanzania.

Under its 1999 Tourism Policy, Tanzania plans to attract five million tourists who would inject about six billion US dollars (U$ 6 billion) by the year 2025, Mr. Mfugale said.

Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan had guided then launched the Royal Tour documentary will showcase various tourism, investments, arts and cultural attractions available and seen in Tanzania, much to the delight of key players in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Besides taking advantage of the networking and business and learning opportunities during the exhibition, Tanzania Tourist Board is looking to attract participants to visit leading wildlife parks and other tourist-attractive sites including Mount Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti, Selous Game Reserve and the island of Zanzibar.

The Expo will also attract FAM trips to key and leading wildlife parks including Tarangire, Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mkomazi, Nyerere, Saanane, Ngorongoro and ancient ruins in Kilwa and Zanzibar.

Tanzania has been nominated to compete for more than 30 world tourism awards organized by the World Travel Awards (WTA). Leading tourist attractions set for WTA competition are the Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA), Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) and the Zanzibar Island.

Read more: Tanzania Launches 7th Swahili International Tourism Expo

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eTurboNews:

With its ongoing improvement of infrastructure and provision of better services, Zanzibar expects to attract more European tourists, mostly Belgians.

Zanzibar President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi said during a meeting with the Belgian Ambassador to Tanzania Mr. Peter Huyghebaert that tourism is one of the key areas for Zanzibar’s Blue Economy agenda, that would make the island the best destination for tourists from around the globe.

Dr. Mwinyi told the Belgian diplomat that his government has been working hard to modernize island’s airports and other infrastructure at tourists’ attraction sites, along with providing better services so that the visitors can speak positively or become good ambassadors abroad.

Zanzibar president further expressed his happiness to meet and talk to the Belgian Ambassador to Tanzania and said that Belgium has been among the leading sources of inbound tourism to Zanzibar.

With great hopes, Dr. Mwinyi said his government would strengthen bilateral relations with Belgium, aiming to pave the way for more tourists to visit the archipelago, and increase tourism investment flow.

Zanzibar’s strategic position in East Africa, its rich cultures and history, warm beaches of the Indian Ocean and great climate have all attract tourists from all over the world to visit the island.

Sounds of wisdom and the Zanzibar Film Festival are a melting pot of a diversity of traditional African music styles performed at open grounds of the Island’s famous Stone Town, while attracting music and film lovers across the globe.

A visit at Stone Town is a once in a lifetime experience. Must visited tourist heritage sites at the Stone Town are the Slave Market, Anglican Cathedral, the House of Wonders, Sultans’ Palace Museum, the Old Arab Fort and The House of Wonders.

Walking through the Stone Town’s meandering, narrow streets would be an interesting visit of the island’s heritage sites. It would take a visitor through the pathways made up of narrow streets and buildings which were restored to their original condition or status.
After a long tour of numerous historical and heritage sites up to the evening, a tourist can visit the Zanzibar Museum stocked with historical artefacts and literature of the island’s past events.

The museum is stocked with historical data and facts about the slave trade. You can feel the pains of the horrible trade in human being, which could make a visitor shivering at the place he or she is standing.

There is at least, the six most beautiful beaches of Zanzibar. A visitor could prove himself or herself about the beauties of those beaches.

A visitor can start beach visiting at Jambiani Beach which is famous by its emerald green waters.

The beach is best for snorkeling and diving where a visitor can enjoy seeing then play with octopus, several varieties of tropical fish, sea horses and stingrays, or take a deep-sea fishing trip to catch the big trophy fish.

Jambiani beach is also a famous place for windsurfing or kitesurfing. The Indian Ocean provides a pleasant atmosphere for swimming during high tide, while the beach is pleasant to stroll along during the low tide. There are several restaurants serving breakfast and meals at Jambiani beach.

After a trip at Jambiani beach, a visitor can go ahead to visit “Nakupenda Beach”. It is a lovely beach that inspire any visitors to enjoy its beauties.

Scuba or free dive is yet the other tourist activity in Zanzibar, A visitor can opt to take a gear out to the dive sites.

Nungwi Beach is best known as “Lively Beach”. If you are travelling alone or looking for more of a social vibe, Nungwi Beach could be the right place for you.

With resorts and hostels lining the beach and bars and restaurants lining the streets, it is an easy place to meet new people and get travel tips on other epic places to see.

This beach town is known to have an energetic and lively nightlife where you can find good food, drinks and dancing. Nungwi is one of Zanzibar’s active place with a diverse range of nighttime entertainments provided by several beach resorts, hotels, restaurants, and pubs.

Secluded with serene atmosphere, Pongwe Beach is an ideal place for romantic tourists or visitors needing a quiet and personal relaxation mostly during holidays.

Read more: Zanzibar Wants More European Tourists

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eTurboNews:

World Tourism Network is very concerned about its 8 members in Sudan, including the Ministry of Tourism of this African country.

Tourism is a business of peace, and this is what Sudan needs now.

Today, Germany-based World Tourism Network Board member Burkhard Herbote received a late night emergency May Day call from Khartoum in Sudan from a fellow WTN member.

This report by the WTN member in Sudan triggered World Tourism Network to reach out to UNWTO Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili and other tourism and human rights organizations, as well as stakeholders of the international travel and tourism community, and charities.

World Tourism Network’s open call is:

Assist Sudan if you can!

The situation in Sudan is escalating and out of control.

Tourism leaders are pioneers in Sudan. They include hard working staff of the National Tourism Board.

Some are fully paid members of the World Tourism Network and were about to start a chapter in Sudan. Members were ready to work on a plan, so visitors could safely rediscover Sudan’s first-century temples, thundering granite mountains, and undeveloped diving in the Red Sea.

The need to work together may have never been so important after what is evolving after April 15, 2023.

To protect our readers in the current environment, eTurboNews will not disclose the exact name of the caller.

Report by a WTN member in Khartoum, Sudan

“As you might know, we have a very difficult situation in Khartoum since the dawn of the 15th of April. Residents in Sudan’s capital have found themselves trapped in a war zone.

“Fighter jets have been flying low overhead, tanks are roaming our neighborhood, gun battles and bombings shake our city’s streets.

“There is a heavy conflict between the official military and the paramilitary groups in our capital, but most likely also in probable all other cities in the country.

“While we still have some infrastructure in Khartoum, the situation in other cities or areas might be worse.

“Also, in Khartoum, the situation becomes more dangerous and difficult by the hour.

“As the fighting between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), enter its sixth day, the people are leaving Khartoum in cars for neighboring cities, as all public transportation is completely stopped.

“Currently there is only one bridge open for traffic movement out of a total of 9 bridges connecting Khartoum with other regions in the country.

“Gun battles, however, are not isolated to our capital, and are being reported from other provincial capitals and cities.

“Due to the tremendous damage in Khartoum and Khartoum International Airport, all domestic and international flights are cancelled.

“Foreigners cannot leave the hotels still operating, and rescue actions by foreign governments were made impossible.

“Electricity is very sporadic, and some areas of the city have no power at all.

“The same counts for the public water supply.

“Under such circumstances, people get sick very quick. Yesterday, some of water and electricity stations were able to came back online – but on and off.

“The markets and shops are closed; no distribution of food and bottled water is available.

“Several hundred people were shot in our streets. With a temperature of 110F or 43C, the decomposition of dead bodies starts very quickly.

“It’s impossible to collect the bodies or arrange funerals.

“In addition, thousands of people are wounded and professional help is not available. The few hospitals able to remain open have not enough power or water.

“About 75% of our medical services is cut off.

“The paramilitary RSF is using the hospitals for their own people and have thrown out sick citizens.

“It can be expected many more will die.

“While under constant fire, some of our hero doctors continue to perform surgeries under the most extreme condition imaginable.

“They are running out of medicine and supplies. There is no blood. Fuel for generators at hospitals is not available.

“They need everything, but how could it even be delivered with the deadly fighting continuing? We need safe corridors. Essential supplies do not arrive.

“Imagine you live in a large city without electricity, water, in the apartment for the electric stove, refrigerator, bath, toilet.

“Nothing works. I try to keep a little electricity to catch an Internet connection if found to broadcast my message to WTN.

“Khartoum is running out of food, water, and everything else someone needs to survive. Only a few bakeries are still operating with big challenges not having stable power for the oven, not enough flour and water – the list goes on.

“Most people remain in their houses and apartments. Some had no chance to go home and are still in their offices or place of work since the fighting started.

“It is very dangerous to go out.

“When possible, when there is a short gap in the gunfire, people are fleeing from Khartoum, even under very dangerous circumstances.

“People are fleeing, but to where? There is no more petrol, and everyone is trying to find some secure paths out.

“Please have in mind, Sudan is the third largest country in Africa. It borders 7 countries in Northeast Africa.

“Neighbors are Egypt, the Arabian Sea with Saudi Arabia close by, Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Sudan, the Central African Republic, Chad, and Libya.

“Sudan hosts the longest river on the continent – the River Nile and source of water in the country.

“Khartoum is a fast growing city with more than 3 million people.

“When you add the greater surroundings (Omdurman, etc.), there are around 9 million in the greater Khartoum region.

“There are a lot of logistics involved to keep such a dense area alive. All of this stopped within minutes, 5 days ago.

“Even if electricity was available, it has to be prepaid via Internet, but the complete system broke down. Banks are closed, and ATM machines have been destroyed or are out of money. None of the usual mobile apps and electronic services work.

The clashes between the army and its opponents, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), continued as both of them try to control the key sites in Khartoum and other states, especially the military sites.

“On the other side, the army declared that it had control of Khartoum and Merowe airports, Sudan TV and radio station, and other military sites in Khartoum, as well as the military camps which had been under control by the RSF.

“Merowe Airport is an airport serving the town of Merowe in Sudan.

“RSF was working beside the army since 2019, since the end of the Al Basheer government. We were hoping to enter a democratic process, but now we face this mess, and nobody knows what to do except trying to escape.

“While I am writing this message to you I hear gunfire and feel bombings.

“I am so worried about my family, friends, colleagues from [ERASED by eTurboNews], facing huge problems, and I don’t know and cannot help. I have fears on my own.

“All is really very difficult for me, but I want to give a signal out to the world.

“You cannot help, but I have a wish to send my colleagues of the international travel and tourism industry and administration out there in the world: 

“Please pray for Khartoum, pray for Sudan, pray for the Sudanese people, whatever religion you have.

“It is really dramatic, and we don’t know what to do, we are helpless.

“All we have are our families and neighbors. Sometimes we manage to contact family and friends by phone or WhatsApp, but our hearts remain dark.

“Nobody knows whether and when the conflict parties will come to a conclusion and when the gun fire will stop.”

Juergen Steinmetz, Chairman of the World Tourism Network, explains: “Sudan, we are with you. To WTN members and eTurboNews readers: If you would like to contact the writer, please post your comments, or for private messages to be related, go to wtn.travel/contact .”

For more information and membership on the World Tourism Network, go to www.wtn.travel .

Read more: A Call from Hell: WTN Sudan Chapter Asks For Your Prayers

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eTurboNews:

Two thought-provoking panel discussions on the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) recently held by WTM Africa have brought to light the substantial roadblocks hindering the realization of open skies in African continent.

These obstacles include visa restrictions, exorbitant costs, and protectionism. Until these issues are effectively addressed, airlines will not be able to achieve the required load factors to make their routes financially viable, rendering the benefits of open skies irrelevant.

Rui Carreira, non-executive Board member of TAAG, explained that the African Union elected the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) as the executing agency of SAATM. However, AFCAC currently lacks the power to enforce regulations, which poses a challenge to the implementation of SAATM.

AFCAC can only rely on voluntary compliance by airlines and national authorities, explained Carreira. This, in turn, leads to uneven implementation of SAATM across different countries as some countries fully embrace liberalization, while others are hesitant to do so. The result is an uneven playing field for airlines and limited investor confidence.

Local African currencies are another obstacle to open skies because multiple currencies and exchange rates can create added complexity and costs for airlines that operate across multiple countries, added Carreira.

David King, Project Manager: Cape Town Air Access, pointed out that visa accessibility is another massive challenge. Although visa controls are necessary, the process should be easy and seamless. The lack of visa accessibility is currently preventing airlines from attracting passengers. This, in turn, hinders the development of SAATM.

Carreira agreed and reiterated the importance of opening up borders and removing obstacles to enable airlines to explore new markets and grow the economy. He explained TAAG is keen to embrace open skies and explore more countries in Africa, but first, the challenges need to be addressed.

“The benefits of SAATM are undeniable,” said Carreira. He explained that TAAG was forced to close some African routes because load factors were simply too low to justify weekly flights. “It is imperative that Africa follows the example of the EU. The EU started as an economic community of just six countries, and gradually expanded over time to include more member states. The region also developed a common market and customs union, which have helped to eliminate trade barriers and promote economic growth within the region.”

Carreira pointed out that similarly to the EU, African countries can start small and focus on building economic partnerships and regional integration at a smaller scale before scaling up. African countries could also benefit from developing institutions to promote intra-regional trade and economic cooperation.

The panellists acknowledged that the benefits of open skies are immense. Afzal Parambil, regional manager Southern Africa at Emirates, explained that the SAATM would help all airlines, not just African carriers. This is because the opening up borders would help connect passengers to secondary and tertiary destinations in Africa, which is currently a significant challenge.

Adebayo Adedeji, CEO of Wakanow.com, stated that commerce should be a driver in the aviation strategy. The benefits of opening up countries commercially are evident, he said, as airlines need at least an 80% load factor to continue operations.

Parambil also noted that liberalization would change the game, as it did for Emirates and Dubai. He explained that by taking advantage of new opportunities created by open skies agreements and establishing a strong hub-and-spoke model, Emirates has been able to expand its operations and become one of the world’s leading airlines.

The aviation industry is an essential player in driving economic growth and job creation in Africa. According to King, for every 100 tourists arriving on a plane in Cape Town, one job is created. “Every flight that enters your airport is valuable and grows the economy,” he said.

It is vital to remove obstacles and achieve open skies to enable airlines to connect African countries and passengers to their destinations and grow Africa into a global and powerful aviation hub.

Read more: Is Africa Ready for Open Skies?

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In light of Africa’s vast landmass, its population accounting for 16% of the world population, and its low share of global trade of 2%, the continent is an excellent opportunity to develop air transport.

However, as a market, Africa’s share over several decades has remained stagnant at less than 3% of the world market – it is time to take action to change this narrative.

The 11th Aviation Stakeholders Convention, scheduled to take place from 07-09 May 2023 is timely and aligned to address this situation. The Convention, which is proudly being hosted by Ethiopian Airlines under the patronage of the Government of
Ethiopia, will be held under the theme: “Changing the African Aviation Narrative”.

The event will bring together over 400 delegates from Africa and across the globe. The Convention is one of Africa’s leading forums for air transport industry stakeholders to dialogue, exchange knowledge and experiences for the development of the travel ecosystem. Several African airline Chief Executive Officers and aviation industry thought leaders will be present at the event.

Speaking in Addis Ababa on the significance of attainment of sustainability that will change the narrative of Africa’s air transport, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé emphasized the importance of dialogue among stakeholders and collaborative initiatives such as those facilitated by AFRAA: “AFRAA and Ethiopian Airlines are excited to stage this Convention for the travel ecosystem stakeholders to meet, deliberate on strategies to enhance efficiencies, create synergies, develop intra-Africa connectivity, ensure business continuity that will redefine the narrative of Africa air transport industry.”

Mr. Mesfin Bekele, Group CEO Ethiopian Airlines remarked, “We are delighted to host the 11th Aviation Stakeholders’ Convention of AFRAA which will serve as a forum for stakeholders in the industry to put their heads together and discuss the opportunities and pressing issues in Africa’s aviation sector. The forum will showcase the ‘Africa Rising’ mantra manifested in the growing opportunities for all stakeholders in the continent’s aviation industry.”

Event Highlights

The Convention will be held from 07-09 May 2023 at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa Ethiopia. A robust and comprehensive program has been lined up to facilitate discussions on various salient topics, masterclasses, networking opportunities at social events and B2B sessions through a conferencing application.

Delegates will have the opportunity to network and discuss developments in the industry and forge business partnerships. CSR event for youth development in aviation: On 10th May, the Convention activities shall cover a CSR activity aimed at empowering the next generation of aviators at the Ethiopian University. The event will be sponsored by Collins Aerospace and staged in collaboration with AFRAA and Ethiopian Airlines.

Exhibition: There shall be exhibition and showcase of aviation-related products and solutions at the exhibition segment of the Convention.

Sponsors: The Stakeholders Convention is proudly sponsored by Ethiopian Airlines, ASECNA, ATNS, Boeing, Collins Aerospace and Embraer.

Read more: Ethiopian Airlines and AFRAA Aviation Convention in May

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eTurboNews:

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Africa’s civil aviation sector had been losing money for nearly thirteen years now.

Based on IATA’s own calculations, airline industry’s slump on African continent has lasted for way over a decade, with Africa’s air carriers last making profits in 2010.

The statistics released by the IATA last week, suggested that African carriers suffered cumulative losses of $3.5 billion in 2020-2022, the period of the global COVID-19 pandemic and worldwide travel restrictions. Further losses of $213 million in the current year have also been predicted.

High airline operating costs, including aviation fuel and energy, regulatory barriers, slow adoption of global standards and a shortage of skilled crew and staff have been named as the main factors affecting the African air carriers’ performance.

The numbers were released concurrently with the IATA launching a “Focus Africa” initiative to support the civil aviation industry on the continent.

According to independent aviation analysts, jet fuel is 12% more expensive in Africa than in other regions, as only very small amounts are refined on the continent, and transportation costs are high.

Jet fuel accounts for more than 30% of African carriers’ expenses, the experts say.

The IATA said last week it expected air travel in Africa to make a full recovery from the pandemic in 2024, as passenger travel already stands at 93% of 2019 levels.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is a trade association of the world’s airlines founded in 1945. IATA has been described as a cartel since, in addition to setting technical standards for airlines, IATA also organized tariff conferences that served as a forum for price fixing.

Consisting in 2023 of 300 airlines, primarily major carriers, representing 117 countries, the IATA’s member airlines account for carrying approximately 83% of total available seat miles air traffic. IATA supports airline activity and helps formulate industry policy and standards. It is headquartered in Montreal, Canada with executive offices in Geneva, Switzerland.

Read more: IATA: African Airlines Last Made Profits in 2010

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Viking today announced its newest ship for the Nile River—the 82-guest Viking Aton—was “floated out,” marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water. Set to debut in August 2023, the Viking Aton will join the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art ships purpose-built for the Nile River and sail Viking’s bestselling 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary. Viking has seen very strong demand in Egypt, with the 2023 season now sold out and many 2024 sailing dates already sold out. The surge in demand has led Viking to open 2025 sailing dates sooner than originally expected.

“We are pleased with the continued strong interest for our Nile River voyages. Our guests are curious explorers, and Egypt remains a destination of great interest for its many cultural treasures,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “We are proud to be the only western company to build, own and operate ships on the Nile, and with the float out of the Viking Aton, we look forward to welcoming more guests to experience this fantastic region.”

The traditional float out ceremony took place at Massara shipyard in Cairo on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, and is significant because it denotes a ship moving into its final stage of construction. The float out of Viking Aton began at approximately 1:00 p.m. local time when Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen and Sayed Farouk, Chairman of The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.), together pressed the button that signaled to lower the ship-lift of the yard. She will now be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.

The Viking Aton & Viking’s Growing Egypt Fleet

Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new, state-of-the-art Viking Aton is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. The identical sister ship to the Viking Osiris, which was named in 2022 by Viking’s first ceremonial godfather, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon, the Viking Aton features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. In addition to the Viking Osiris, the Viking Aton will join the Viking Ra, which launched in 2018. In response to strong demand, Viking will have six ships sailing the Nile by 2025 with the addition of two new sister ships, the Viking Hathor and the Viking Sobek, which are already under construction and will be delivered in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

Viking’s Pharaohs & Pyramids Itinerary

During the 12-day, Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, or the Grand Egyptian Museum. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring Privileged Access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colorful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

For guests looking to extend their journey, Viking also offers Pre and Post Extensions that provide Privileged Access to archives and exhibits. Guests on the five-day British Collections of Ancient Egypt extension will begin the journey in London, where they will meet their Viking Tour Director, an expert Egyptologist, and experience Privileged Access to two museums: first a private, early morning visit to the Egyptian Collection at the British Museum before it opens to the general public – and then a visit to the home and personal museum of world-renowned architect, Sir John Soane, where the tour will be illuminated by candlelight, a re-enactment of how Soane entertained guests and showcased his exquisite collection of Egyptian antiquities, including a 3,000-year-old Egyptian sarcophagus. Guests will also visit London’s Petrie Museum, which houses more than 80,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt and Sudan. In Oxford, guests will visit the Ashmolean Museum, one of the oldest in the world, and home to a varied collection of Egyptian mummies and art—and go behind the scenes at Oxford University’s Griffith Institute, where they will enjoy a Privileged Access visit to see Howard Carter’s archives, which detail the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. Lastly, guests will have further Privileged Access with an exclusive visit to Highclere Castle to view the Earl’s magnificent private collection of Egyptian artifacts, as well as archives and exhibits not normally accessible to the public.

Additional offerings include a Pre Extension in Jerusalem where guests will explore the ancient history and vibrant culture of Israel’s fascinating capital and a Post Extension to Jordan – Petra, Dead Sea & Amman to view Roman antiquities at Jerash, Crusader-era castles at Kerak or Shobak and experience the lost city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Read more: Viking Marks Float Out of Newest Egypt Ship

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Celebrating Easter Holiday in Africa, a group of Israel tourists arrived in Tanzania and are visiting the premier northern wildlife parks for a weeklong holiday.

A report from the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) said that the visitors from Israel arrived in northern Tanzania a few days ago and are now touring Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti wildlife parks as part of their Easter Holiday itinerary.

Over 240 tourists from Israel have opted to spend their Easter holiday in northern Tanzania, Zanzibar beaches, and heritage sites, the report said.

The Israeli holidaymakers will be visiting Tanzania in the heart of Africa, while several African Christians are making their annual pilgrimage to Holy sites in Israel to commemorate Passover celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Tanzania Tourist Board had launched marketing campaigns targeting Israeli tourists in large numbers, while Tanzanians were looking to travel to Israel for religious pilgrimages.

Israel, the Christian Holy Land, attracts big groups of visitors from Africa wanting to visit its religious historical sites, mostly the Christian Holy places of Jerusalem, Nazareth, and Bethlehem, the Sea of Galilee, and the healing water and mud of the Dead Sea.

African Christian pilgrims visit Israel between March and April every year to pay respects to the various Holy Sites in both Israel and Jordan.

Tanzania is among African destinations now marketing their tourism in Israel to attract Israeli visitors.

Several companies from Tel Aviv are currently marketing African tourism in Israel.

Tanzania and Israel seek to boost bilateral relations that would attract more Israeli tourists and businesspeople, encouraging them to visit and invest in this African safari destination.

Israel is one of the emerging markets for Tanzania tourism.

Read more: Israeli Tourists Visiting Tanzania for Passover

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The meeting will consist of travel and tourism leaders from South Africa, Botswana, Spain, and Sierra Leone on a Ministerial Roundtable titled: “Developing a Sustainable Tourism Industry in Africa by Integrating Cultural, Environment, Good Governance and Social Concerns.” The roundtable is one of the highlights of the African Tourism Investment Summit being held from April 3-5, 2023, in Cape Town, South Africa, under the theme: “Revitalizing Investment in Sustainable Tourism on the African Continent”.

Minister Bartlett, who left the island on Saturday (April 1), has been invited to speak at the highly anticipated summit in his capacity as a well-respected global thought leader on tourism resilience and development. The event is also an opportunity for the tourism minister to explore expansion of the Global Tourism Resilience & Crisis Management Centre’s (GTRCMC) satellite network in Africa, enhance cooperation in the areas of travel and hospitality between Jamaica and South Africa, and engage with the Ministers of Tourism of several African countries who will be attending the summit.

“The Government of Jamaica has been actively working to strengthen ties between Jamaica and the continent of Africa in the areas of travel, trade and investment.”

“From a tourism perspective, Africa is the new frontier and Jamaica and, in fact, the wider Caribbean, are particularly interested in tapping into this new market.  Another important area of cooperation is tourism resilience. We already have a GTRCMC satellite centre in Kenya and we look forward to expanding this important Africa Network,” Minister Bartlett noted. 

“With the strong historical and cultural association between Jamaica and Africa, it is strategic to collaborate and strengthen our tourism cooperation. The summit will provide this opportunity,” he added.

The African Tourism Investment Summit attracts hundreds of ministers, mayors, investors, private equity firms, venture capitalists, decision makers, international buyers and travel professionals to focus on African tourism, investment trends, industry challenges and opportunities. The event is part of Africa Travel Week.

Minister Bartlett will return to the island on April 7, 2023.

Read more: Bartlett to Participate in African Tourism Investment Summit

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is launching “Focus Africa” to strengthen aviation’s contribution to Africa’s economic and social development and improve connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers. This initiative will align private and public stakeholders to deliver measurable progress in six areas.

“Africa accounts for 18% of the global population, but just 2.1% of air transport activities (combined cargo and passenger). Closing that gap, so that Africa can benefit from the connectivity, jobs and growth that aviation enables, is what Focus Africa is all about,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Infrastructure constraints, high costs, lack of connectivity, regulatory impediments, slow adoption of global standards and skills shortages affect the customer experience and are all contributory factors to African airlines’ viability and sustainability. The continent’s carriers suffered cumulative losses of $3.5 billion for 2020-2022. Moreover, IATA estimates further losses of $213 million in 2023.

Delivering on Africa’s Opportunities

Sustainably connecting the African continent internally and to global markets with air transport is critical for bringing people together and creating economic and social development opportunities. It will also support the realization of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) for Africa of lifting 50 million people out of poverty by 2030. In particular, trade and tourism rely on aviation and have immense unrealized potential to create jobs, alleviate poverty, and generate prosperity across the continent.

Africa has a solid foundation to support the case for improving aviation’s contribution to its development. Pre-COVID aviation supported 7.7 million jobs and $63 billion in economic activity in Africa. Projections are for demand to triple over the next two decades.

“Africa stands out as the region with the greatest potential and opportunity for aviation. The Focus Africa initiative renews IATA’s commitment to supporting aviation on the continent. As the incoming Chair of the IATA Board of Governors, and the first from Africa since 1993, I look forward to ensuring that this initiative gets off to a great start and delivers benefits that are measurable,” said Yvonne Makolo, CEO of RwandAir and first female Chair of the IATA Board of Governors (2023-2024).

Six Critical Areas

“The limiting factors on Africa’s aviation sector are fixable. The potential for growth is clear. And the economic boost that a more successful African aviation sector will deliver has been witnessed in many economies already. With Focus Africa, stakeholders are uniting to deliver on six critical focus areas that will make a positive difference. We’ll measure success and will need to hold each other accountable for the results,” said Walsh.

The six focus areas are:

• Safety: Improve operational safety through a data driven, collaborative program to reduce safety incidents and accidents, in the air and on the ground.

• Infrastructure: Facilitate the growth of efficient, secure, and cost-effective aviation infrastructure to improve customer experience and operational efficiency.

• Connectivity: Promote the liberalization of intra-African market access through the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

• Finance and Distribution: Accelerate the implementation of secure, effective and cost-efficient financial services and adoption of modern retailing standards.

• Sustainability: Assist Africa’s air transport industry to achieve the “Net Zero by 2050” emissions targets agreed to by industry and the UN’s International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) member states.

• Future Skills: Promote aviation-related career paths and ensure a steady supply of diverse and suitably skilled talent to meet the industry’s future needs.
The Power of Partnerships

“Partnerships will differentiate the outcome of Focus Africa from previous efforts to stimulate Africa’s development with air transport. By partnering, stakeholders will effectively pool their resources, research, expertise, time and funding to support the common goals of the six work areas,” said Kamil Al Awadhi, IATA Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East.

The partners will be announced and join forces in Addis Ababa on 20-21 June to officially launch the Focus Africa initiative with more details for each task area.

The Timing is Right

Africa continues the path to recovery from the COVID-19 crisis. Air cargo is 31.4% over 2019 levels and air travel is 93% of 2019 levels. Full recovery for air travel is expected in 2024.

Read more: IATA: Aviation Contributes to African Development

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Dr Vanessa Gaitree Bheekhoo Gowreessunkar, a tourism expert on Mauritius has come out strongly to advocate the need for the island a relook at the Vanilla Islands concept.

He published a comprehensive study alongside Maximiliano Korstanje (Argentian) and Shem Wambugu Maingi (Kenyan), which stated that Mauritius forms part of the Indian Ocean Vanilla Island Group alongside Seychelles, Reunion, Madagascar, Comoros, and Mayotte Islands.

The driving force for the original founding of the Vanilla Islands was former tourism minister Alain St. Ange from Seychelles.

“This concept needed to be embraced”, he said.

When St. Ange left Vanilla Island concept started operating in a low-key approach and reduced speed.

Dr Vanessa Gaitree Bheekhoo Gowreessunkar, said that Mauritius offers more than beaches and some cultural attractions.

In his book “Tourism in Crisis,” he stated that Mauritius needed to push forward the concept of good governance, saying that too often, tourism enterprises were subject to a cartel of personalities.

Dr. Vanessa Gaitree Bheekhoo Gowreessunkar said that Mauritius could also seek the assistance of the UNWTO as has been done by several other countries.

The global tourism crisis is ongoing according to Dr. Gowreessunkar. The world was experiencing a mutation of the tourism industry.

The CEO of Vanilla Islands is Pascal Viroleau based in Reunion, France. According to St. Ange commitment, even when it comes to the rotating chairmanship in the organization has become difficult. It needs a strong relaunch.

Read more: Mauritius Tourism to revisit Vanilla Island Marketing Concept?

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