…Moves To Mobilize $500M Tourism Investments By 2030
By Chidi Ugwu
The Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC-WORLD) is set to unveil a transformative global initiative aimed at revolutionizing tourism and economic cooperation between Africa and the world.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Ambassador Kazeem Akinola Balogun, Vice President, Communications and International Relations, disclosed that the official launch will take place on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at the prestigious Abuja Continental Hotel.
According to him, the launch marks a historic milestone, recognizing Nigeria’s significant role in global tourism due to its large population and robust tourism sector.
Although headquartered in Cotonou, Benin Republic, with regional offices in Lagos, London, Paris, Madrid, and more, Balogun said, AITEC-WORLD’s choice of Abuja for its inaugural event signals the birth of a movement designed to reposition Africa as a global powerhouse in tourism and economic development.
He added that the event will convene influential government officials, diplomats, international organizations, tourism boards, private sector leaders, creatives, youth groups, development partners, and media professionals under the unifying theme “Tourism for Economic Advancement: from Africa to the World.”
AITEC-WORLD’s vision, Balogun said, is to link Africa and the world through tourism as a catalyst for shared economic development, cultural diplomacy, innovation, and sustainable partnerships.
He added that the organisation’s mission goes beyond leisure tourism to harness tourism as a conduit for trade, investment, education, culture, peace, and human connection, stressing that the organization is committed to driving strategic bilateral and multilateral collaborations that unlock tourism’s full potential as a transformative global industry.
“The initiative is anchored by six strategic pillars: Strengthening Africa’s and the global tourism brand. Improving mobility and connectivity. Driving investment and economic growth. Enhancing policies, data, and innovation.Promoting sustainable and inclusive development, and Integrating African and international tourism.
“These pillars aim to showcase Africa’s rich cultural heritage, foster intercultural dialogue, attract global capital, and facilitate investments in tourism infrastructure, SMEs, and sustainable ventures worldwide.
“Additionally, emphasis is more on harnessing technology and smart tourism tools to future-proof the sector, promote economic inclusion, empower tourism professionals, and position tourism as a force for peace, conflict resolution, environmental sustainability, and inclusive growth.
Following the Abuja launch, the AITEC-WORLD Spokesman said the organisation plans to hold further significant regional events: in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from November 4-8, 2025, home to the African Union and a hub for continental diplomacy; and in London, United Kingdom, from November 4-6, 2026, serving as the gateway to Europe and a platform to consolidate international partnerships and visibility in the global tourism economy.
He further called to governments, private sector stakeholders, academia, youth, creatives, media, and all passionate changemakers worldwide to join its inclusive platform, adding that by doing so, they become part of a bold movement aimed at transforming tourism beyond travel—into trade, talent, technology, tolerance, and transformation for shared prosperity.
He emphasized that with the media’s partnership, the message of Africa’s readiness and potential will resonate globally.
As the countdown to August 14th continues, AITEC-WORLD invites all stakeholders to participate in shaping a future where Africa’s tourism and economic potential is realized to the fullest, building bridges of prosperity from Africa to the world and back again. The world is indeed waiting, and Africa is ready.
