African Tourism Board Rolls Out at WTM London

A new, multinational-body to promote the hospitality sector in Africa has been unveiled during World Travel Market in London.

Created by the International Coalition of Tourism Partners, itself based in Seychelles, Brussels, Bali, and Hawaii, the Africa Tourism Board will seek to enhance the sustainable growth, value, and quality of travel on the continent.

Speaking in London, ICTP chairman Juergen Steinmetz explained his vision for the African Tourism Board.

Africa Tourism Board will partner with the World Travel Awards, with the global body helping to promote the new organization.

In partnership with public and private sector members, the Africa Tourism Board will provide leadership and counsel on an individual and collective basis to its member organizations.

Steinmetz also touched on the process of bringing the African Tourism Board home to Africa and building a global network to promote the continent as the safest, most desirable and cleanest tourism destination in the world.

The aim of African Tourism Board is to have a member in each African state – building an unparalleled network across the continent, he explained. The first initiatives from the board include opportunities for investments, visibility, security, safety and connectivity.

Some 200 top tourism leaders, including ministers from many African countries, were in attendance for the event at World Travel Market London.

Also present, was Taleb Rifai, former secretary general of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).