UN Tourism and TUI Care Foundation Partner to Empower Rural Artists in Africa
UN TOURISM AND TUI CARE FOUNDATION EMPOWER RURAL ARTISTS IN AFRICA THROUGH SUSTAINABLE TOURISM. NEW AGREEMENT AIMS TO BOOST INCOME AND PRESERVE CULTURAL HERITAGE.
UN Tourism and TUI Care Foundation have strengthened their partnership with a new agreement. Signed at the UN Tourism headquarters in Madrid, this agreement aims to empower artists and artisans, especially women and youth, in rural African tourism destinations. TUI Care Foundation is now the first to support the pilot phase of the UN Tourism’s Rural Development Small Grants Programme.
Launch of ‘Colourful Cultures’ Call for Proposals to Support Rural Artists in Africa
The partnership will launch the ‘Colourful Cultures’ Call for Proposals to support artists and artisans in rural areas of Gambia, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, and Zambia. This initiative focuses on preserving cultural heritage and creating sustainable income opportunities through tourism.
Non-profit organizations in these countries can develop innovative projects to benefit artisanal and artist communities. These projects will boost income opportunities, protect intangible cultural heritage, and promote rural tourism.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism Development
UN Tourism and TUI Care Foundation have a history of promoting sustainable tourism. In 2023, they launched the Tourism for Development Fund with EUR 10 million to support sustainable development in Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
During the agreement signing, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said, “Tourism can transform lives and communities, especially in rural areas. By supporting rural artists and artisans, we preserve cultural heritage and create sustainable income opportunities.”
Thomas Ellerbeck, Chairman of TUI Care Foundation, added, “Supporting artists and artisans preserves cultural heritage and promotes economic growth. Our collaboration with UN Tourism, inspired by the TUI Colourful Cultures programme, is a key part of our strategy.”
Tourism is crucial for rural communities, creating jobs, promoting cohesion, and protecting resources. It also empowers women and youth. Rural areas face challenges like depopulation, aging populations, lower income levels, and gaps in infrastructure. The ‘Colourful Cultures’ Call for Proposals aims to increase the capacity, visibility, and support services for artists and artisans in rural tourism.
