UN Tourism Commission for Africa Meets to Boost Social Impact, Innovation, and Youth Empowerment
The UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa (CAF), brought together tourism leaders, government officials, and creative-sector stakeholders to chart a future where tourism drives lasting, inclusive development across the region. The event brought together more than 300 delegates, including 18 Ministers of Tourism, reflecting the high-level support for UN Tourism's work and vision for the region.
Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili opened the 68th session with a call to action rooted in partnership and progress. Reflecting on his first visit to Abuja in 2018, he noted that 'progress is built on partnership and Africa's story is one of resilience and renewal.' He lauded the region's rapid recovery in tourism, driven by streamlined protocols, digital innovation, and targeted skill development, and reaffirmed commitment to the Agenda for Africa: Tourism for Inclusive Growth.
Shared progress celebrated
In Abuja, UN Tourism's Member States in Africa were given a thorough overview of the progress made in advancing shared goals since the Regional Commission's last meeting. Key highlights of this shared progress include:
The launch of the Thematic Office on Innovation for Africa, in partnership with Morocco, designed to drive investment, capacity-building, and digital transformation in tourism.
A strong emphasis on creative industries, music, film, fashion, and cuisine, as drivers of culture-led tourism, visitor engagement, and local livelihoods.
Advancements in education and youth empowerment, including new courses, academy launches in Zambia and Zimbabwe, and expansive training and entrepreneurship programmes.
Tourism can be a ladder out of poverty and a platform for leadership , Pololikashvili said, urging further investment in digital literacy, vocational training, and youth entrepreneurship, particularly for women and marginalized communities.
Key roles for African Member States in UN Tourism
In Abuja, Africa's Member States fulfilled their statutory obligations with elections to key positions that will guide UN Tourism's work forward over the coming years:
Angola; Kenya; Seychelles; Zambia; Zimbabwe will serve on the UN Tourism Executive Council (2025-2029)
Nigeria and Zimbabwe will serve as Vice-Presidents of the UN Tourism General Assembly (2025)
Zambia will Chair the Regional Commission for Africa (2025-2027), with Angola and Nigeria the Vice-Chairs
Looking ahead, Seychelles will host the 69th Meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa (date TBC). Cabo Verde will then host the official celebrations for World Tourism Day 2027.
Innovation to shape Africa's tourism future
The week's discussions underlined a shared vision: tourism led by Africans, powered by innovation, and rooted in cultural identity. Delegates stressed that technology and Artificial Intelligence must serve people first, by widening market access, easing travel, and reinforcing ethical standards.
On the sidelines of the 68th CAF meeting, UN Tourism held a Technical Workshop on AI and Innovation shaping Tourism and Creative Industries for local officials. Discussions focused on placing AI tools and innovation to be at the forefront of tourism development across Africa, as well as on supporting education and entrepreneurial skills for growth as well as the importance of public-private partnerships.
About UN Tourism
UN Tourism is the United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. An intergovernmental organization, UN Tourism has 160 Member States, 6 Associate Members, 2 Observers and over 500 Affiliate Members. The General Assembly is the supreme organ of the Organization. The Executive Council takes all measures, in consultation with the Secretary-General, for the implementation of the decisions and recommendations of the General Assembly and reports to the Assembly. UN Tourism headquarters are based in Madrid, Spain. The election for Secretary General will be in May 2025.
View source
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hospitality Net
2 days ago
- Hospitality Net
UN Tourism Commission for Africa Meets to Boost Social Impact, Innovation, and Youth Empowerment
The UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa (CAF), brought together tourism leaders, government officials, and creative-sector stakeholders to chart a future where tourism drives lasting, inclusive development across the region. The event brought together more than 300 delegates, including 18 Ministers of Tourism, reflecting the high-level support for UN Tourism's work and vision for the region. Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili opened the 68th session with a call to action rooted in partnership and progress. Reflecting on his first visit to Abuja in 2018, he noted that 'progress is built on partnership and Africa's story is one of resilience and renewal.' He lauded the region's rapid recovery in tourism, driven by streamlined protocols, digital innovation, and targeted skill development, and reaffirmed commitment to the Agenda for Africa: Tourism for Inclusive Growth. Shared progress celebrated In Abuja, UN Tourism's Member States in Africa were given a thorough overview of the progress made in advancing shared goals since the Regional Commission's last meeting. Key highlights of this shared progress include: The launch of the Thematic Office on Innovation for Africa, in partnership with Morocco, designed to drive investment, capacity-building, and digital transformation in tourism. A strong emphasis on creative industries, music, film, fashion, and cuisine, as drivers of culture-led tourism, visitor engagement, and local livelihoods. Advancements in education and youth empowerment, including new courses, academy launches in Zambia and Zimbabwe, and expansive training and entrepreneurship programmes. Tourism can be a ladder out of poverty and a platform for leadership , Pololikashvili said, urging further investment in digital literacy, vocational training, and youth entrepreneurship, particularly for women and marginalized communities. Key roles for African Member States in UN Tourism In Abuja, Africa's Member States fulfilled their statutory obligations with elections to key positions that will guide UN Tourism's work forward over the coming years: Angola; Kenya; Seychelles; Zambia; Zimbabwe will serve on the UN Tourism Executive Council (2025-2029) Nigeria and Zimbabwe will serve as Vice-Presidents of the UN Tourism General Assembly (2025) Zambia will Chair the Regional Commission for Africa (2025-2027), with Angola and Nigeria the Vice-Chairs Looking ahead, Seychelles will host the 69th Meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa (date TBC). Cabo Verde will then host the official celebrations for World Tourism Day 2027. Innovation to shape Africa's tourism future The week's discussions underlined a shared vision: tourism led by Africans, powered by innovation, and rooted in cultural identity. Delegates stressed that technology and Artificial Intelligence must serve people first, by widening market access, easing travel, and reinforcing ethical standards. On the sidelines of the 68th CAF meeting, UN Tourism held a Technical Workshop on AI and Innovation shaping Tourism and Creative Industries for local officials. Discussions focused on placing AI tools and innovation to be at the forefront of tourism development across Africa, as well as on supporting education and entrepreneurial skills for growth as well as the importance of public-private partnerships. About UN Tourism UN Tourism is the United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. An intergovernmental organization, UN Tourism has 160 Member States, 6 Associate Members, 2 Observers and over 500 Affiliate Members. The General Assembly is the supreme organ of the Organization. The Executive Council takes all measures, in consultation with the Secretary-General, for the implementation of the decisions and recommendations of the General Assembly and reports to the Assembly. UN Tourism headquarters are based in Madrid, Spain. The election for Secretary General will be in May 2025. View source
Hospitality Net
2 days ago
- Hospitality Net
Posadas Expands All-Inclusive Resort Footprint Across Mexico and the Caribbean
This growth is fueled by a strong strategic vision and solid financial performance, paving the way for new developments in sought-after beach destinations throughout Mexico and the Caribbean. Upcoming openings include marquee locations such as Nuevo Vallarta, Playa del Carmen, Punta Cana, and Los Cabos. Mexico City – Posadas, Mexico's leading hotel operator, is strengthening its commitment to all-inclusive beach resorts with a growing portfolio that will add more than 1,300 new rooms by the end of the year. This momentum is backed by the strong operational performance of its existing properties in top tourist destinations, which continue to post high occupancy rates, competitive pricing, and increasing demand from both domestic and international travelers. Over the past year, Posadas-operated beach resorts averaged 76% occupancy and outperformed the market with rates 31% higher than the competitive set. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, the company reported a 16% year-over-year increase in revenue per available room (RevPAR) at its resorts—underscoring both operational efficiency and the rising appeal of the all-inclusive model among today's more discerning travelers. Our experience in the all-inclusive resort space allows us to continue growing with confidence. We're introducing properties with unique concepts in key destinations like Nuevo Vallarta, Playa del Carmen, Punta Cana, and Los Cabos—offering the market one of the strongest and most profitable platforms, backed by decades of hospitality expertise. Mauricio Elizondo, Vice President of Development at Posadas Key 2025 and Future Openings: Fiesta Americana Nuevo Vallarta (June 2025, 229 rooms): A family-friendly, all-inclusive resort located in the North Hotel Zone of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. The property celebrates warm Mexican hospitality in a relaxed, welcoming setting ideal for families. (June 2025, 229 rooms): A family-friendly, all-inclusive resort located in the North Hotel Zone of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. The property celebrates warm Mexican hospitality in a relaxed, welcoming setting ideal for families. Fiesta Americana Funeeq Punta Cana (498 rooms):A next-generation all-inclusive resort designed to welcome guests of all ages. Located in the exclusive Uvero Alto beach area of Punta Cana, this property will open in Fall 2025 as part of Grupo Posadas' international expansion. The resort blends hospitality, wellness, and entertainment in a high-value tourism setting, with modern infrastructure and tailored experiences for families, groups, and business travelers alike—positioning it as a standout in the Caribbean. (498 rooms):A next-generation all-inclusive resort designed to welcome guests of all ages. Located in the exclusive Uvero Alto beach area of Punta Cana, this property will open in Fall 2025 as part of Grupo Posadas' international expansion. The resort blends hospitality, wellness, and entertainment in a high-value tourism setting, with modern infrastructure and tailored experiences for families, groups, and business travelers alike—positioning it as a standout in the Caribbean. Live Aqua Los Cabos (Spring 2027, 90 rooms): An exclusive development featuring luxury residences and an adults-only Live Aqua hotel in San José del Cabo. The property will offer premium finishes, terraces with Sea of Cortez views, private amenities, and experiences rooted in wellness and signature gastronomy. It marks a strategic investment in the region's luxury hospitality and residential market. Currently, 61% of new rooms under development across the Posadas portfolio are located in beach destinations—reinforcing the company's focus on coastal expansion. The debut of Fiesta Americana Funeeq Punta Cana also signals Posadas' continued success in operating outside of the Mexican market. Posadas continues to leverage its deep hospitality expertise and proven success in the all-inclusive space with the addition of these exceptional resorts, several of which are set to debut in 2025 , added Elizondo. With a diversified portfolio, growing EBITDA (+13% in Q1 2025), and a solid liquidity position, Posadas is cementing its presence in high-growth markets across Mexico and the Caribbean while remaining open to new opportunities that drive long-term value for investors and stakeholders. About Grupo Posadas Posadas is the largest hotel operator in Mexico, with more than 180 hotels and resorts, and more than 27,500 rooms in beach and city destinations located throughout the country and in the Caribbean. Thanks to the positioning of its Live Aqua, Grand Fiesta Americana, Fiesta Americana, The Explorean, Fiesta Inn, Gamma and one Hotel brands, Posadas is an internationally recognized Mexican company. Posadas has been listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV) since 1992. For further information, please visit: About La Colección Resorts La Colección Resorts is comprised of 15 distinctive resorts located in Mexico and the Dominican Republic, encompassing the brands Live Aqua Resorts, Grand Fiesta Americana Hotels & Resorts, Fiesta Americana Hotels & Resorts and The Explorean. Showcasing the best of the destination including warm culture and hospitality, guests are privy to unrivalled accommodations, amenities and entertainment that ensure a superior, world-class vacation experience. The resorts within La Colección include: Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun All Inclusive Adults Only, Live Aqua Urban Resort San Miguel de Allende, Live Aqua Private Residences Los Cabos, Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana, Grand Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive Adults Only, Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun, Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa, Fiesta Americana Cozumel All Inclusive, Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun All Inclusive, Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive & Spa, Fiesta Americana Cancun Villas, Fiesta Americana Acapulco Villas, The Explorean Cozumel and The Explorean Kohunlich. Upcoming openings 2020 & 2021 in Punta Cana, Uvero Alto and Los Corales in Dominican Republic, Tulkal Riviera Maya, Playa Mujeres and Valle de Guadalupe BC in Mexico. For further information, please visit:
Hospitality Net
2 days ago
- Hospitality Net
Swiss Tourism's Long Decline: Can the Alpine Giant Regain Its Global Standing?
Compared to other countries, Switzerland has steadily become less and less popular as a vacation destination, which raises important questions about the factors shaping international tourism flows. This article examines the role of demographic change, particularly ageing populations, in influencing destination rankings and looks at what these trends may imply for the future of Swiss tourism. Switzerland's Tourism: A 70-Year Decline in Global Popularity International travel has steadily increased over the decades. In 1950, there were 25 million international trips, rising to 1.4 billion by 2018 on the eve of the COVID-19 pandemic. This growth has made tourism a significant part of the economy. In Switzerland, for example, travel and tourism accounted for 12.5% of jobs and 9.2% of GDP in 2019. However, trends have been shifting away from Europe, and Switzerland in particular. In 1950, Switzerland was the 5th most-visited country by international travelers; in 1990, it was the 13th most-visited country in the world; by 2018, Switzerland had fallen to the 35th position (UNWTO Barometer). Where tourists choose to spend their holiday has a major impact on national economies. Countries in the Americas and Europe have for instance been losing ground. As figure 1 shows, fewer people are directing their international trips towards the Americas and Europe, while increasingly numbers are setting their sights on Asia and the Pacific. Figure 1. Share of worldwide international travel (arrivals)— Source: EHL The Role of Demographics in the Past Destination choices depend on many factors. Income plays an obvious role, as transportation and accommodation costs can be sizable, especially in certain countries. Scholars have been looking for key decision factors for decades and have consistently found that the cost of living in the destination country and exchange rates were two other important economic factors, perhaps without much surprise. The role of historical and natural sites, of temperature, sunshine as well as snowfalls at destination has also been established. Lastly, geographical, cultural and historical proximity, domestic or international conflicts, migration and political stability undoubtedly play an important role. Travel decisions also depend on non-economic characteristics of the person traveling. For instance, there is evidence that people go abroad less often as they get older. Health typically deteriorates with age - an important aspect to take into consideration before embarking on long-distance trips! One related factor which hasn't been investigated much is the ageing population. For instance, one adult out of five was older than 65 in Japan in 2000. In 2020, it was one adult out of three. As populations age, does that mean that there would be less international travel if all other factors were held constant? The answer is no. The analysis of data shows that it is quite the opposite. The ageing phenomenon is driven mostly by the increases in life expectancy, and to a smaller extent, by the drop in fertility. Living longer is, to a large extent, a by-product of medical progress that allows us to live in better health for longer. There might be an increase of the elderly in society, but this is due to better medical knowledge, meaning that people live longer and in better health, thus enabling more people to travel abroad. The Role of Demographics in the Future The United Nations has made projections on future fertility, mortality and migration rates, which allow researchers to estimate the expected number of old people in society. The OECD also makes projections of future economic growth. Based on these projections and the past effect of the ageing population on international travel, one can make projections of future travel between any pair of countries, ignoring all other factors that influence travel decisions. One can thus simulate future worldwide rankings simply based on changing demographics and income. The following table compares the projections for Sweden and Switzerland, two European countries of similar ranking in 2025: — Source: EHL Simulations predict a different path for the two countries. On average, international arrivals in Sweden would grow by 2.2% ever year, while they would grow by 3.2% in Switzerland. Switzerland could thus maintain its worldwide position and stop the decline that has taken place since 1950. The decline is slated to, on the other hand, continue in Sweden. Why is There Such a Difference? The primary reason for the difference in outcomes is that the two countries attract visitors from vastly different countries. For example, twice as many people in the U.S. traveled to Switzerland (about 1 million) compared to Sweden (about 0.5 million) in 2018 just before the COVID-19 crisis. In contrast, many more travelers from Denmark visited Sweden (2.3 million) compared to Switzerland (57,000). Yet, demographic trends suggest patterns will change: Denmark's population is expected to remain stable at around 6 million, while the U.S. population, driven by higher fertility rates, is projected to grow from 350 million to 400 million by 2070. This means that the market for international travel to Sweden is likely to grow at a slower rate than the market for international travel to Switzerland. Implications For National Tourism Management First of all, there are many factors and thus policy actions that can be taken to influence the attractiveness of a country to international travelers. What we learn from the simulation exercise is that demographic trends in themselves will also play a role. Relative to other European countries, these trends should help Switzerland maintain its standing, without any particular policy efforts. Secondly, tourism operators or policy makers who want to increase international arrivals into a country can also use demographic information to define their marketing targets. As there are more international departures from countries where people live longer (and thus are healthier on average), one could focus marketing resources on countries where life expectancy is higher and projected to increase faster, assuming that all other factors influencing travel decisions are the same. While Switzerland has seen its position as a tourist destination gradually slip since the middle of the 20th century, our simulation indicates that the downtrend is expected to level off in the coming years. Population growth in its key markets, notably in the United States, is likely to continue to bolster Swiss tourism in the near future. Shifting trends, including the ageing population and the increasing popularity of Asia-Pacific, are not predicted to cause a further decline for the Swiss tourism industry. Further Reading We invite you to access the full simulation here or download the PDF. For further details on worldwide travel, please consult the numerous publications from the UN World Tourism Organization. For further details on the role of demographics and simulations, please visit the 'Long-run Economic and Demographic Influences on International Tourism' project. View source
