The travel and tourism sector in Africa has the potential to contribute $168 billion to the continent's economy and create more than 18 million new jobs, according to a recent report by two international travel and tourism organizations.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Visa Facilitation Services Global (VFS Global) released the data at the 23rd WTTC Global Summit in the Rwandan capital of Kigali.
"Africa’s travel and tourism sector has witnessed an extraordinary transformation. In just two decades, it has more than doubled in value, significantly contributing to the continent’s economy," WTTC President Julia Simpson said. "Growth potential for Travel & Tourism in Africa is massive. It has already more than doubled since 2000, and with the right policies could unlock an additional US$168 billion in the next decade."
The report, titled "Unlocking Opportunities for Travel & Tourism Growth in Africa," highlights the need for key policies in aviation infrastructure, visa facilitation and tourism marketing to achieve 6.5% annual growth, resulting in a contribution of more than $350 billion to the continent's economy.
In 2019, before the global coronavirus pandemic, Africa's travel and tourism sector contributed more than $186 billion to the continent's economy and provided employment for 25 million people.
"This report not only highlights the diverse prospects for economic growth, sustainable tourism, and cross-cultural collaboration but also provides valuable insights for governments to formulate policies and offers businesses a well-defined roadmap for expansion in this thriving market," Zubin Karkaria, founder and CEO of VFS Global, said.
The report highlights opportunities such as improved connectivity, streamlined visa processes and sustainable practices to further drive growth, job creation and economic development in Africa's travel and tourism industry.