President Paul Kagame highlighted at the official opening of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) 2023 on November 2 that the prohibitive expenses associated with air travel to and within Africa hinder the tourism sector’s growth. To address this challenge, he advocated for the adoption of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). The summit, hosting over 1,200 participants from the global tourism industry, focused on acknowledging recent growth and analyzing challenges in Africa’s tourism sector. This three-day event, themed ‘Building Bridges to a Sustainable Future,’ marked the first time the WTTC was held in Africa, specifically in Kigali.

During his opening speech, Kagame emphasized Rwanda’s strategic commitment to tourism as a key driver of economic growth. He expressed gratitude for the annual influx of visitors to Rwanda, attracted by the country’s natural beauty, sporting events, and international gatherings. Kagame cited conservation efforts, resulting in Nyungwe National Park’s recognition as a world heritage site, and highlighted investments in infrastructure and skills to host major sports events like the Basketball Africa League.

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Despite the global recovery of the travel and tourism industry, Kagame underscored the persistent barrier of high air travel costs in Africa. He identified the implementation of SAATM as a crucial priority to address this issue and promote sustainable growth in the sector.

SAATM, often known as the unified air transport market, seeks to enhance the aviation sector across the continent by enabling unrestricted movement of airlines between countries.

Emphasizing the importance of the continental market, the Head of State highlighted Africa’s potential as the future hub for global tourism. With a rapidly growing middle class, collaborative efforts with partners like the WTTC are crucial to transforming Africa into a top-tier destination for international travel.

The leader also announced Rwanda’s decision to eliminate visa restrictions for citizens from all African nations and several others. This move extended a warm invitation to delegates, encouraging them to explore various parts of the country.

Organized jointly by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the WTTC stands out as the preeminent annual summit in the travel and tourism industry. This gathering assembles thousands of industry leaders, experts, and governmental representatives to foster collaboration in supporting sector growth and progressing towards a future that is safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable.

Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC, praised the Rwandan government’s endeavors in developing the tourism sector, a pivotal contributor to the economy and a substantial source of employment. She noted that these initiatives have positioned the country among the top 20 in ease of doing business on the continent.

Simpson emphasized that the summit serves as a platform to engage in discussions with governments, advocating for policy changes to cultivate a sustainable industry. One focal point she highlighted is the imperative shift to electric vehicles throughout the supply chain as a strategy to combat climate change.

Meanwhile, Francis Gatare, CEO of RDB, expressed that hosting the WTTC global summit in Rwanda and Africa signifies a remarkable milestone for the continent. He sees it as an opportunity for the world to witness Rwanda’s transformative journey and Africa’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

Gatare extended a welcome to delegates for the upcoming gorilla naming ceremony, Kwita Izina, commemorating 20 years of celebrating conservation efforts that have revived the population of mountain gorillas from the brink of extinction.

According to available data, tourism revenues surged to $445 million in 2022 from $164 million in 2021, marking a substantial 171.3 percent increase. A forthcoming report on tourism in Africa suggests that, with the right approach and concerted investment efforts, travel and tourism could boost Africa’s GDP to $50 billion by 2033 and create six million additional jobs.