Reaching the peak of Mt Kilimanjaro, having a medical procedure in Tunisia, observing Rhino’s at an eco-lodge in Namibia, rafting the Zambezi River, these are all forms of a growing and eclectic tourism industry in Africa. This year, UNCTAD’s ‘Economic Development in Africa Report 2017’ focuses on ‘Tourism for transformative and inclusive growth’ and encourages African countries to harness the dynamism of the tourism sector.

The United Nations designated 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. The tourism sector has been praised for its capacity to stimulate economic growth through the creation of jobs and by attracting investment and fostering entrepreneurship, while also contributing, if properly harnessed, to the preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity, protection of cultural heritage and promotion of empowerment of local communities.

The UNCTAD report addresses some of the below key questions:

• How does tourism contribute to structural transformation and more inclusive
• How can linkages between tourism and other productive sectors be harnessed to create additional economic opportunities and provide sustainable livelihoods?
• How can the economic potential of intraregional tourism be fostered and better exploited through deeper regional integration?
• What is the relationship between tourism and peace?

The ‘Economic Development in Africa Report 2017’ will be launched on 5 July 2017