UN Tourism Launches First African Thematic Office in Rabat
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has inaugurated its first thematic office in Africa, located in Rabat, Morocco. The office, established through an agreement signed by Morocco’s Tourism Minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor and UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, will focus on fostering innovation and investment in tourism across the continent. Key initiatives include capacity-building programmes, innovation forums, and continent-wide startup competitions aimed at driving sustainable growth and economic development within Africa's tourism sector. This development aligns with UNWTO’s 2030 Agenda for Africa and Morocco’s broader vision to lead joint African tourism advancements.
The office is also set to enhance communication and coordination with UNWTO members across Africa, ensuring support for regional tourism destinations. The announcement follows a UNWTO report showcasing Morocco’s record-breaking 2024 tourism numbers - 7.4 million international visitors, representing a significant 35% growth compared to 2019, and $10.5 billion in tourism revenue. Minister Ammor highlighted Morocco’s role as a continental leader in tourism development, while Pololikashvili emphasised the office's potential to decentralise operations and bolster Africa’s tourism industry. The initiative marks a significant step in leveraging tourism for socioeconomic progress across the continent.
Source: UNWTO