Morocco to Host 1st UN Tourism Africa Office: Boost for Travel Trade
Morocco is solidifying its position as a tourism leader in Africa by securing the first ever United Nations thematic office for tourism on the continent. This landmark agreement, signed in Marrakech, between Morocco’s Minister of Tourism, Fatim-Zahra Ammor, and UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, marks a significant milestone for African tourism development. For African travel agents, this new office promises to be a game-changer, fostering innovation, attracting crucial investment, and enhancing capacity building across the continent, ultimately leading to richer and more diverse tourism offerings for your clients.
Based in Rabat, the UN Tourism thematic office will serve as a central hub dedicated to propelling Africa’s tourism industry forward. Imagine a dedicated resource center for workshops, conferences, and industry forums right on African soil. This office will also champion startup competitions, nurturing entrepreneurial ventures within the African tourism sector. Minister Ammor highlighted that this initiative aligns perfectly with King Mohammed VI’s vision for African collaboration and the UN Tourism 2030 agenda, reinforcing Morocco's commitment to continental progress. For travel professionals, this means easier access to cutting-edge knowledge and opportunities to participate in shaping the future of African tourism.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the strategic importance of this new presence in Africa. He stated that the Rabat office will ensure more effective decentralized communication and stronger coordination with African partners. Crucially, it will amplify UN Tourism’s actions specifically designed to benefit Africa’s tourism sector. Pololikashvili also acknowledged Morocco’s growing role in attracting global investment to the industry, pointing to the recently launched investment guidelines aimed at attracting and guiding international stakeholders. This focus on investment is vital for African travel agents, as it paves the way for improved infrastructure, new tourism products, and enhanced services, all contributing to a more attractive and competitive African tourism market.
This historic establishment of the first UN Tourism office in Africa marks a new era for the continent's tourism industry. Pololikashvili underscored the deep-rooted partnership between Morocco and UN Tourism, noting that Morocco is a founding member of the organization. This new office signifies a deepened commitment to African member states, promising new projects and enhanced communication channels. For African travel agents, this translates to greater support, resources, and opportunities to thrive in a more connected and globally recognized African tourism landscape. With Morocco’s strong infrastructure and dedication to tourism, this office is poised to be a powerful catalyst for sustainable tourism development and growth across the entire continent, directly benefiting African travel businesses and the experiences they offer.
