23 Sep 2024

IGAD launches 10-year plan to unify East African tourism

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The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has unveiled a 10-year Sustainable Tourism Master Plan (2024-2034) aimed at unifying tourism efforts across its member countries. The plan, endorsed by IGAD Tourism Ministers and Ethiopia's Ministry of Tourism (MoT), seeks to boost regional tourism development.

MoT Minister Nasise Chali emphasised the plan's importance for regional integration and policy coordination. Ethiopia has committed to leading the plan's implementation, viewing it as crucial for unlocking the region's tourism potential.

IGAD Secretary General Workneh Gebeyehu highlighted tourism's vital role in the region's economy, noting that IGAD member states welcomed over 10 million international tourists in 2023.

The master plan aims to address challenges such as inconsistent regulations, restrictive visa policies, infrastructure deficits, and climate change. It focuses on improving connectivity, enhancing marketing efforts, and building human and institutional capacities across IGAD countries.

This initiative is expected to enhance tourism competitiveness, diversify tourism products, and boost intra-regional tourist exchanges, positioning the East African region as a globally competitive tourism destination.

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Source: AllAfrica