ECOWAS Member States Adopt Key Resolutions for ECOTOUR 19-29
ECONOMIC COMMUNITY OF WEST AFRICAN STATES (ECOWAS) COMMITS TO BOOSTING REGIONAL TOURISM THROUGH ECOTOUR 19-29 INITIATIVES. PRIVATE SECTOR AND MEMBER STATES TO PLAY KEY ROLES.
Tourism experts and the private sector concluded a pivotal three-day meeting on monitoring and evaluating ECOTOUR 19-29. The event, held in Abuja, saw significant resolutions aimed at enhancing regional tourism.
The private sector will now request funding for ECOTOUR 19-29 activities. They will identify and seek support from Technical and Financial Partners (TFPs). Additionally, they will initiate and sign a partnership agreement with the ECOWAS Commission. This aims to foster sustainable tourism and drive economic growth in the region.
Member States have agreed to establish national classification commissions and resource regulation structures. They will also organize awareness sessions for industry stakeholders about the new regulations. This initiative aims to ensure industry-wide compliance and understanding of the new tourism standards.
The ECOWAS Commission committed to several key actions. They will organize capacity-building sessions for national classification commissions and regulatory bodies. They will also establish a harmonized tourism satellite account for member countries. Moreover, the commission will disseminate the new regulations and conduct a mid-term evaluation of ECOTOUR 19-29.
These resolutions were encapsulated in the Final Communique, adopted on May 16, 2024. Mrs. Ruth NDAM, Director of Hospitality & Travel Trade at the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, signed the communique. This document underscores the collective commitment to enhancing tourism in the region.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Anthony Luka ELUMELU, Director of the Private Sector at the ECOWAS Commission, praised the participants. Speaking on behalf of Mrs. Massandjé TOURE-LITSE, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, he appreciated their contributions and ongoing efforts. He reaffirmed the ECOWAS Commission’s dedication to implementing the meeting’s recommendations, aiming to transform the region into a thriving tourist hub.
Future Steps for ECOTOUR 19-29
These resolutions mark a significant step towards a robust and sustainable tourism sector. The collaborative efforts of member states and the private sector promise economic growth and regional integration.
The meeting’s outcomes highlight the importance of collective action. Moving forward, member states and the private sector will play crucial roles in realizing the goals of ECOTOUR 19-29.
