London-
Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC World) has successfully organised its third launch, indicating readiness for international operations at the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2026, unveiling the organisation’s global mission, with its President, Ambassador Dine Bouraima calling for stronger global partnerships, responsible investment and improved tourism connectivity to accelerate participation in the global tourism economy.
The global launch, held at South Gallery, Room 20, ExCeL London, marked a significant milestone in the organisation’s development and its ambition to establish a platform connecting African tourism destinations, businesses, investors and institutions with international markets.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Bouraima reaffirmed AITEC World’s commitment to its founding theme, “Linking Africa to the World and the World to Africa,” describing tourism as a strategic instrument for economic development, cultural understanding and international cooperation.
He said the organisation was established on the conviction that Africa deserved more than recognition for its natural beauty, cultural diversity and heritage, stressing the need for meaningful participation in the global tourism economy.
According to him, Africa requires greater investment in tourism infrastructure, destinations, enterprises and human capital, alongside improved air connectivity, accessible travel and expanded opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs.
“Our mission is not to build a one-way bridge. It is to create a two-way relationship of opportunity, trust and shared prosperity,” Bouraima declared.
From Abuja to Addis Ababa and London
The London launch represents the third major milestone in AITEC World’s international development journey. Tracing the organisation’s evolution, Bouraima recalled that its first regional launch took place on August 14, 2025, at the Intercontinental Hotel in Abuja, Nigeria, where the foundation was laid for an international platform bringing together governments, private enterprises, tourism professionals, investors and development partners.
The second continental launch followed on November 6, 2025, at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, extending the organisation’s vision into a broader continental framework. He noted that the Addis Ababa engagement reinforced the importance of regional integration, cooperation and connectivity in building Africa’s tourism future.
The London international launch, he said, represents the next phase of AITEC World’s development, moving from its founding journey towards broader international engagement and practical implementation.
“From Abuja to Addis Ababa, and from Addis Ababa to London, our journey reflects the very essence of our mission: Linking Africa to the World and the World to Africa,”.
Six Strategic Priorities
In outlining AITEC World’s global strategic direction, the President identified six interconnected priorities designed to strengthen tourism cooperation and create economic opportunities.
These include enhancing the international visibility and competitiveness of tourism destinations; improving mobility and connectivity through dialogue on visa facilitation, air transport and regional travel; mobilising investment and expanding business opportunities; strengthening knowledge, policy dialogue and innovation; promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism; and connecting tourism ecosystems across Africa and the wider world.
Bouraima explained that the organisation intends to support stronger destination branding, market access and connections between African tourism operators and international buyers. He also emphasised the importance of responsible investment, research, professional expertise and technological innovation in improving tourism development and decision-making.
On sustainability, he stressed that tourism growth must protect cultural heritage, respect the environment and generate meaningful opportunities for local communities, women, young people and small enterprises. He described the six priorities as the foundation for future programmes, partnerships and measurable achievements.
WTM London Provides Platform for Global Engagement
The President highlighted the significance of AITEC World’s participation in WTM London, describing the international tourism marketplace as an important opportunity to engage stakeholders capable of transforming Africa’s tourism potential into commercial opportunities and practical cooperation.
He called on travel dealers to strengthen connections between African destinations and international markets. Airlines and transport stakeholders were also encouraged to work towards improved access and connectivity, while investors and financial institutions were urged to consider Africa’s tourism opportunities through responsible investment and long-term partnerships.
Bouraima also appealed to governments and international institutions to strengthen cooperation, encourage enabling policies and remove unnecessary barriers on tourism development.
He stressed that AITEC World was not established to replace existing institutions but to complement their work, connect their strengths and translate shared objectives into practical cooperation.
“Our purpose is collaboration, not competition. Our ambition is impact, not prestige. Our measure of success is progress, not publicity,” he said.
Africa Tourism Dialogue to Sustain Momentum
Looking beyond the London launch, Bouraima announced that AITEC World intended to continue its international engagement through the Africa Tourism Dialogue scheduled for November 12–14, 2026, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia as a tourism component of Africa Celebrates which takes place from 10-15 November.
The dialogue is conceived as a platform for deliberations involving policymakers, tourism industry leaders, investors, development institutions and other stakeholders. Its objective is to attempt proffering practical solutions to some of the challenges facing African tourism and strengthen the continent’s connections with the global economy.
According to the President, the London launch should therefore be regarded not as the conclusion of AITEC World’s founding journey but as the beginning of a new chapter focused on international engagement, partnerships and delivery.
Calls for Measurable Results
Bouraima cautioned that the organisation must be judged by the opportunities it creates and the impact of its activities rather than the number of ceremonies, speeches or titles associated with its development.
He said AITEC World’s partnerships must produce tangible results, its meetings must generate opportunities, and its commitments must be followed by implementation. The organisation, he added, would seek to demonstrate its value through practical initiatives that support tourism businesses, strengthen international cooperation and improve opportunities for destinations and communities.
He also expressed appreciation to AITEC World’s leadership, executive board, advisory, representatives, global ambassadors, technical commissioners, members, partners and supporters for their contributions to the organisation’s development, describing institution-building as a collective responsibility, that organisation’s progress depended on shared belief, sustained commitment and collaboration.
A New Chapter for Africa’s Tourism
The President concluded by urging stakeholders to transform tourism potential into shared prosperity through stronger partnerships, responsible investment and international cooperation.
He challenged participants to focus on creating opportunities for African entrepreneurs, facilitating international travel, attracting investment, supporting destinations and preserving cultural identities and heritage.
“Let us build bridges where others see barriers. Let us create partnerships where others see distance. Let us turn Africa’s potential into shared prosperity,” he said.
Bouraima formally declared the third international launch of AITEC World accomplished, reaffirming its commitment to connecting Africa with global markets and bringing international opportunities closer to African destinations, businesses and travellers.
Other Speakers and Dignitaries
Joining AlTEC World President for the unveilling was the Director General of Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Dr. Ola Awakan, who was a Keynote Speaker, delivered an engaging message on the need to create synergy between Africa and the rest of the world in the tourism space.
Other speakers at the event were Dr. Memunatu Pratt, Former Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Republic of Sierre Leone; Dr. Badaki Aliyu, the President of the Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria, (FTAN), represented by Mrs. Susan Akporiaye, the First Deputy President of (FTAN) ; Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria and Special Adviser to AlTEC World; Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha, President of Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP); Dr. Olanma Ojukwu, National Representative of AlTEC World- Benin Republic who also presented AITEC World’s International Strategic Vision, Mission and Objectives
among other prominent tourism stakeholders, who all expressed their support for AITEC World’s mission of “linking Africa to the world and the world to Africa”.
Another highlight of the event was the London Declaration, delivered by Mr. Nkereuwem Onung, the Special Adviser to AITEC World.
The event was Directed by Mr. Ayo Omotoso, Director of Communication and Membership, AITEC World Nigeria and the Vote of Thanks was handled by Mrs. Abiosoye Odeyemi, Director of Culture and Creative Industries- AITEC World Nigeria.
The launch concluded with a renewed call for tourism to serve as a catalyst for economic development, cultural understanding, international friendship and a more connected world.
AITEC World’s international launch at WTM London marks a transition from its establishment phase to a broader programme of global engagement, with the organisation seeking to build partnerships that deliver practical benefits for Africa and its international tourism partners.
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