Rome—
On the crisp morning of May 16, 2025, the grandeur of the Hive Hotel in Rome came alive with cross-continental conversations as stakeholders from Africa and Europe gathered for the Africa Europe Tourism Exchange Forum(AETEF) 2025. On the theme,” Bridging Africa and Europe Through Tourism Exchanges “. At the heart of the day’s program was a stirring keynote address by Cav. Sen. Tony C. Iwobi, Senator of Italian Republic (XVIII) and trailblazing voice for the African diaspora in Europe politics.
Speaking under the theme “Sustainable Tourism and Diaspora: A Bridge Between Africa and Europe for a Shared Future,” Sen. Iwobi brought to the forum a compelling perspective that blended political insight with heartfelt advocacy for unity, sustainability, and inclusive development.
“It is an honor for me to be here today, in this beautiful setting of Rome, to contribute to a dialogue I consider crucial,” addressing a room filled with policymakers, diplomats, tourism professionals and media representatives. Drawing from his extension experience as a former Vice President of both the Foreign Affairs and Human Rights Committees in the Italian Senate, Iwobi underscored tourism’s transformative power when steered with purpose and conscience.
Distinguished Senator Tony Iwobi of the Italian Republic, XVIII Legislature receiving his his award as the BEST TOURISM FRIENDLY PERSONALITY from the organisers, (left), Amb. Michelina Sanquest, Director Globetrotters SA Ltd. and Amb. Kazeem Balogun, CEO Kalo Africa Media during the awards ceremony at the Hive Hotel, Rome, ltaly
A Call for Sustainable Tourism
Opening with a firm stance on sustainability, Sen. Iwobi defined sustainable tourism not merely as an environmental imperative but as a “development strategy” that could empower marginalized communities and foster equitable economic growth across continents.
“Tourism must evolve from being about consumption to becoming a symbol of respect,” he said. He advocated for investments in renewable energy within the tourism sector and a shift towards responsible, tech-driven innovation that benefits known African regions and lesser- known European locales.
The Diaspora as a Cultural Bridge
A significant portion of his speech focused on the African diaspora in Europe- a group he described as” an invaluable resource.” With passion and clarity, Sen. Iwobi highlighted the potential of diaspora tourism as both a cultural reconnection tool and an economic catalyst.
He painted a vivid picture of diaspora-led Tourism that celebrates Africa’s rich artistic, historical and culinary traditions, while also breaking down stereotypes and building crosss-cultural understanding.”Diaspora tourism is not only about rediscovery, it is diplomacy in motion,” he said to a resounding applause.
Strengthening SMEs Through Real Pathnerships
In his third point, Sen. Iwobi emphasized the often overlooked yet critical role of small and medium-sized enterprises ( SMEs) in the tourism value chain. Calling them” the backbone of tourism,” he noted the fragile conditions many SMEs face and called for enhanced support in the form of training, financing and digital integration.
“Where SMEs grow stronger, so do communities,” he stated, adding that bridging African and European enterprises through genuine partnerships is key to resilient growth in both continents.
A Vision for a Shared Future
In conclusion, Sen. Iwobi envisioned a future where tourism is “sustainable, digital,cultural and deeply human.” His final call to action urged governments, businesses and civil society to collaborate on a shared vision of mutual progress between Africa and Europe.
“We must view tourism as a transformative force capable of generating economic development and fostering lasting cultural connections,” he said. “Thank you for building, with heart and wisdom, a tourism that brings people together. “
The keynote address set a profound tone for the rest of the forum, positioning tourism not just as an industry, but as a bridge between histories, economies and peoples.
As Rome welcomed leaders and tourist from around the world for the inauguration Pope Leo so was the voices from both sides of Mediterranean, from the messages of Sen. Iwobi was clear enough- the future of tourism is collaborative, conscious and continentally connected.
The forum, organised by Globetrotters SA Ltd, headed Global Amb. Michelina Sanquest and Kalo Africa Media headed by Amb. Kazeem Balogun aims to create a strong synergy between Africa and Europe, leveraging on the power of tourism.
Senator Iwobi was later honoured with the Best Tourism Friendly Personality by the organizers for his unwavering dedication and hard work at ensuring greater collaboration and sustainable synergy between Africa and Europe.
Participants expressed their optimism at the initiative as they look forward to implementation of the resolution arrived at the forum, as it reconvenes next year for another bumper edition.
