Tunis Advocates Inclusive Tourism Growth
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Farida Tunis has called for tourism growth that creates opportunities for local communities, businesses, and creatives, emphasizing that the benefits of the industry should be widely shared. She made the call during engagements at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London this week, where discussions on ownership, participation, and inclusive growth reinforced Sierra Leone's efforts to make tourism more beneficial to communities.
The Minister highlighted initiatives including Tourism for All, the Year of Ecotourism, and the Year of Culture and Creativity as part of efforts to connect communities, creative professionals, and private sector players while expanding the economic benefits of tourism. Pointing to the creative economy's contribution of approximately 4.5 per cent to gross domestic product (GDP) and its support for 10 per cent of jobs, she described the sector's potential for further growth as significant.
Speaking at the Summit, Tunis stressed the need to challenge outdated perceptions of Africa and recognize the transformation taking place across the continent's tourism destinations. She further highlighted Sierra Leone's preparations to host the third UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, alongside initiatives such as the One Nation Reggae Festival.
According to the Minister, the country's tourism agenda is focused on supporting local businesses, empowering creatives, strengthening supply chains, and ensuring communities share in the benefits generated by tourism activities. She maintained that tourism should extend beyond attracting international visitors to creating economic opportunities, celebrating Sierra Leone's identity, and improving people's livelihoods.
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