MAPUTO–
The three-day forum, held from August 20–22 under the theme “Unlocking Africa’s Tourism Potential through Diplomacy and Investment”, convened more than 400 delegates, including over 150 international participants from across Africa, the United States, and Canada.
The Forum was opened by Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Delfina Levi alongside former President Joaquim Alberto Chissano, who underscored the importance of regional collaboration to harness tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and social development.
Her Excellency, Maria Benvinda, Delfina, Prime Minister of Republic of Mozambique, Speaking at the forum
Representing the Mozambican government, Minister of Economy Basílio Muhate welcomed participants from government institutions, the private sector, academia, civil society, and international organisations.
Key Highlights and Discussions
Throughout the event, experts and policymakers engaged in thematic sessions covering:
- Tourism Policy & Institutional Reforms: Calls for political stability, investment-friendly regulations, and long-term planning.
- Infrastructure & Connectivity: Emphasis on railways, ports, air transport, and regional integration to boost accessibility.
- Nature-Based and Cultural Tourism: Promotion of community-led conservation, leveraging Africa’s wildlife, beaches, and cultural heritage.
- Digital Transformation: Adoption of e-payments, smart destinations, and digital platforms to enhance competitiveness.
- Human Capital Development: Operationalising hotel and tourism schools, strengthening training partnerships, and closing the skills gap in hospitality.
Former President Chissano reminded delegates that “tourism can only thrive in an environment of peace, stability, and shared vision.”
His Excellency, former President of Mozambique, Joaquim Chissano making an intervention during the forum while His Excellency, Basilio Muhate, Minister of Economy, Mozambique; Mr. Cuthbert Ncube, Chairman of African Tourism Board and Madam Linda Fernando, the Convener of the forum look on.
Resolutions and Commitments
At the close of the forum, delegates adopted a set of bold resolutions, including:
- Mobilising infrastructure investment and modernising Africa’s tourism sector.
- Simplifying visa processes and creating a regional visa regime to encourage multi-country travel.
- Establishing open skies agreements to improve air connectivity across Africa.
- Streamlining conservation regulations to promote eco-tourism.
- Accelerating digital transformation and expanding digital literacy within the tourism industry.
- Strengthening partnerships between training institutions and the private sector to nurture skilled professionals.
The communiqué described the deliberations as “in-depth, rich in diverse perspectives, and grounded in solid evidence,” stressing that the diversity of voices led to practical solutions for tourism development.
Mozambique Showcases Its Potential
Delegates lauded Mozambique’s warm hospitality and encouraged visitors to experience the country’s renowned beaches, wildlife reserves, and cultural treasures. Secretary of State for Tourism, H.E. Fredson Bacar, in his closing remarks, hailed the forum as “an important platform for dialogue and concrete partnerships at a time when diplomacy and investment are fundamental to consolidating tourism as a driver of sustainable development in Africa.”
Looking Ahead
Participants expressed optimism that ADTIF would evolve into a permanent platform for cooperation, measuring its success by how quickly commitments translate into tangible action.
As the first edition concluded in the “City of Acacias,” the consensus was clear: Africa’s tourism future lies in unity, investment, and innovation to build a more competitive, sustainable, and inclusive sector.
