Accessible Tourism: A Lucrative Opportunity for Africa’s Travel Sector

ACCESSIBLE TOURISM EMERGES AS A VITAL GROWTH OPPORTUNITY FOR AFRICA’S TRAVEL SECTOR. EXPERTS STRESS THE NEED FOR TAILORED ACCOMMODATIONS AND ACCESSIBLE INFORMATION TO MEET DIVERSE NEEDS EFFECTIVELY.

At Africa Travel Week 2024, experts underscored the economic potential of inclusive tourism. Travellers with disabilities, constituting over 1 billion globally, exhibit unique spending patterns, making them a profitable market segment. As the global population ages, the demand for accessible travel is expected to surge, necessitating proactive measures.

Tarryn Tomlinson, CEO of LiveAble, highlights the financial imperative facilities for accessible tourism. According to Lois Strachan, host of podcast A Different Way of Seeing, personalized accommodations and accessible information are paramount for travellers with disabilities. Jabaar Mohamed, the Provincial Director for DeafSA Western Cape, urges hospitality staff to inquire about individual needs rather than making assumptions.

Briony Brookes, representing Cape Town, showcases city’s “Limitless CT” initiative, which promotes inclusivity through innovative features. Even small changes have yielded substantial results in attracting diverse travellers to the city. Moreover, the session concludes with a call to action for the African tourism industry to embrace accessibility as a means of fostering inclusivity and unlocking economic opportunities.

In conclusion, accessible tourism emerges as a vital growth opportunity for Africa’s travel sector, offering substantial prospects while promoting inclusivity. Experts stress the importance of tailored accommodations and accessible information to effectively meet diverse needs. By implementing proactive measures, the continent can position itself as a welcoming destination for all travellers.

Africa Travel Week

Africa Travel Week is an annual event that showcases the diverse offerings of Africa’s travel and tourism industry. It serves as a platform for networking, sharing insights, and exploring opportunities for growth within the sector. The event typically features exhibitions, conferences, and seminars where industry professionals, stakeholders, and enthusiasts gather to discuss trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the African travel landscape. Africa Travel Week’s efforts towards accessible tourism also shows their dedication towards region’s travel sector.