IGAD launches 10-year Sustainable Tourism Master Plan in Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, September 19, 2024 (FBC) – Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) today rolled out the region’s 10-year Sustainable Tourism Master Plan (STMP 2024-2034) which aims to shape a more sustainable and inclusive future for the tourism sector in the region.
IGAD Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu, together with IGAD Ministers responsible for Tourism and key leaders from the tourism sector, gathered at the iconic Adwa Victory Memorial Museum Hall to officially launch the IGAD Sustainable Tourism Master Plan 2024-2034.
This significant milestone marks the beginning of a transformative decade focused on advancing sustainable tourism development across the region, fostering collaboration, innovation, and resilience in the industry, it was indicated.
The Master Plan was unveiled in Addis Ababa at a forum organized by the Tourism Ministry of Ethiopia (MoT) in collaboration with partners as part of the commemoration of World Tourism Day.
In his remarks at the launch ceremony, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh stressed that it is high time that IGAD member countries join forces and work in synergy to properly utilize the potential tourism resources in the region.
The Executive Secretary added that STMP 2024-2034 will help to ensure the sustainable development of tourism by strengthening the mutual relations and cooperation between the countries in the IGAD region.
On her part, Ethiopia’s Minister of Tourism, Ambassador Nasise Chali, stated that her country is working extensively to make the tourism sector competitive by developing new world-class tourism destinations while maintaining the existing ones.
She said that the IGAD Sustainable Tourism Master Plan will unite efforts to ensure the comprehensive development of the sector in the region. The Minister asserted that Ethiopia will make efforts for the success of the ten year plan.
It was mentioned that the IGAD region is endowed with immense tourism resources ranging from spectacular landscape to captivating wildlife, from colourful cultures and traditions to magnificent history.