Latest news with #ZurabPololikashvili
Zawya
01-08-2025
- Business
- Zawya
United Nations (UN) Tourism/ International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Ministerial Summit calls for enhanced cooperation to unlock Africa's growth
Jointly organized by UN Tourism, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the Government of Angola, the high-level event drew more than 300 international delegates around the theme 'Accelerating Synergies for Resilient and Sustainable Growth'. The three-day conference, focused on strengthening the alignment between two of Africa's fastest-growing sectors: tourism and air transport. Both are critical enablers for job creation, innovation, and greater regional mobility. In his opening remarks, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: 'Tourism and air transport are not just engines of growth, they are pathways to empowerment, opportunity, and transformation, through strategic leadership and innovation, Africa's potential can become its reality.' He urged decisive policy action to remove the barriers holding African tourism back. H.E Daniel Marcio, Angola's Minister of Tourism said 'Angola is proud to host such a landmark event, which positions Angola as a regional hub for dialogue and action. Tourism is a key pillar of our national strategy for inclusive development, job creation, and cultural promotion.' In his intervention, H.E Mr. Ricardo de Abreu, Angola's Minister of Transport, emphasized the importance of infrastructure and regulatory reform: 'We must build air transport systems that are not only modern and efficient but also accessible and responsive to the needs of our people. Connectivity within Africa is essential to realizing the continent's economic potential.' ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano commended the initiative's collaborative spirit: 'Tourism and aviation must grow hand in hand. Through shared vision and policy coherence, we can drive sustainable development, enhance safety and security, and ensure no country is left behind.' Connectivity, Policy Reform, Investment The Luanda Conference placed a strong emphasis on advancing Africa's tourism and air transport sectors through enhanced connectivity, regulatory reform, and cross-sector collaboration. Delegates agreed that aligning aviation and tourism policies is vital to unlocking the continent's potential, particularly through open skies agreements, cohesive infrastructure planning, and public-private investment. A central focus was also placed on simplifying visa processes, promoting joint destination marketing, and removing travel barriers to stimulate intra-African tourism. The Conference began with an expert-led workshop featuring technical sessions on innovation, connectivity, investment, and regional integration. Participants explored how technologies like AI and digital platforms can improve service delivery, while also identifying new funding models to expand infrastructure. In-depth discussions addressed how frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) can support harmonized policies and boost regional mobility. Ministerial Discussions and Commitments Over two days of ministerial sessions, high-level officials focused on aligning policy frameworks, driving innovation for inclusive growth, ensuring equitable access to travel, and building resilient transport and tourism systems. The Conference concluded with the formal adoption of the Luanda Ministerial Statement—an affirmation of Africa's collective commitment to developing a seamless, sustainable, and integrated travel ecosystem. Luanda Ministerial Statement Ministers, leaders of delegations and delegates present pledged to: Modernize tourism and aviation infrastructure with support from both public and private investment. Deepen partnerships with key institutions including ICAO, UN Tourism, IATA, AFRAA, AFCAC, and others. Advance mobility reforms through simplified and more affordable visa regimes, fast-track procedures, and longer-validity multi-entry visas. Promote intra-African tourism, including joint destination marketing and greater collaboration with the private sector. Empower youth and women through skills training, entrepreneurship support, and educational initiatives focused on the tourism and aviation sectors. This 2nd conference came at a time of record momentum for African tourism. The continent welcomed 74 million international arrivals in 2024, a 7% increase over 2019 and 12% more than in 2023, signalling strong recovery and renewed global interest in African destinations. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).
Hospitality Net
13-06-2025
- Business
- 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
Zawya
13-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
United Nations (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. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).
Travel Daily News
13-06-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
UN Tourism Commission for Africa meets to boost social impact
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.
Hospitality Net
02-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Shaikha Al Nowais Nominated as First Woman Secretary-General of UN Tourism as Executive Council Builds on Strong Legacy
The UN Tourism Executive Council has met again for a milestone session to build on the legacy of the last eight years. Meeting for its 123rd session, the Council assessed progress made around the priorities of innovation, investments and education and looked ahead with the nomination of Shaikha Al Nowais as new Secretary-General from 2026. Upon confirmation by the UN Tourism General Assembly, Ms. Shaikha Al Nowais will become the woman to hold the position. According to the May 2025 World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism, over 300 million tourists travelled internationally in the first three months of 2025, about 14 million more than in the same months of 2024. On the back of this positive data, Member States were given an overview of the progress made in key areas designed to build a more innovation, resilient and sustainable sector. Over the last eight years, UN Tourism has embraced a transformative vision. We have put tourism at the forefront of the global agenda to enhance its competitiveness and economic value. And we have never lost sight of our key priorities: education, investments, sustainable and rural development, women empowerment, new technologies, and international expansion. Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili Shaikha Al Nowais nominated to make history as first female UN Tourism head Following protocol, the Council elected Shaikha Al Nowais as the next Secretary-General, to begin in January 2026. Her nomination will be put to the UN Tourism General Assembly for their approval. The nomination represents a landmark first for the sector, as the first woman leader of UN Tourism in its 50-year history. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais is an Emirati business leader with over 16 years of experience in global hospitality. As Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels, she has overseen owner relations across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey. A graduate of Zayed University in Finance, she also chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber's Tourism Working Group and serves on the boards of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Les Roches Hospitality Academy. Celebrating shared progress In Segovia, Secretary-General Pololikashvili presented a comprehensive report reviewing the outcomes of his eight-year mandate. The report was built around the main outcomes of the approved Programme of Work, namely: Tourism Insights, including Key data trends shaping the industry's future. Tourism Knowhow, including the development of tourism products. Investments and Innovation, supporting the core drivers of growth Sustainability, with a focus on initiatives aligning with the SDGs. Education and Human Capital development to build a strong, skilled workforce. UN Tourism on the ground and its assistance to Member States. Budget allocation and Human Resources. Highlights included strengthened tourism data systems, expanded rural tourism initiatives (including the Best Tourism Villages and STAR tool), new programming in gastronomy, sports, and urban tourism, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence and social innovation into the Organization's broader agenda. Member States were also updated on the significant growth in the UN Tourism Online Academy, new International Academies in Association with UN Tourism, and record foreign direct investment figures. Strengthening global presence and new Innovation Office for Africa The Council also welcomed updates on the development of Thematic and Regional offices. On the eve of the Executive Council Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and Tourism Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco Fatim-Zahra Ammor and UN Tourism formalized an agreement to create he first UN Tourism Thematic Office on Innovation for Africa in Rabat. The office will advance UN Tourism's 2030 Agenda for Africa, and aims to position tourism as a key driver of development through innovation across the region. 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. UN Tourism Communications Department +34 91 567 8100 UN Tourism
