UN Tourism has already presented the preliminary agenda for the 1st UN Tourism Summit for Africa and the Americas, which will be held in the most popular holiday destination in the Caribbean region, Punta Cana in the east of the Dominican Republic, in which ministerial representatives from the 54 countries of the African continent, in addition to the countries of the Americas, will participate.
UN Tourism indicates that after the official opening, a high-level ministerial dialogue will be established entitled: “Building Opportunities between Africa and the Americas”
In this regard, he highlights that “Africa and the Americas are regions endowed with immense cultural wealth, diverse landscapes, and significant historical heritage and connections. Harnessing these attributes through greater tourism cooperation can stimulate economic development, foster cultural exchanges, and encourage sustainable practices on both continents. Dialogue stands as a cornerstone for future collaboration, promising substantial benefits for both regions through the promotion of tourism, shared knowledge, cultural exchange, and economic collaboration. The high-level ministerial debate aims to open new horizons for mutual growth and sustainable development by building bridges across the Atlantic using tourism as a key tool for both continents. By addressing challenges and capitalizing on opportunities in tourism investments, innovation, education, and cultural industries in the sector, the meeting lays the foundation for a transformative partnership that champions economic and cultural prosperity for both regions.”
On the first day, the “Punta Cana Declaration” will be presented and adapted, followed by the keynote presentation: “Building bridges between continents: promoting links between Africa and the Americas”, followed by: the moment of connections in which an informal networking session will be held.
For the second day, on October 4th, the presentation will be: History of our shared roots: Fireside Chat: “Two continents, one story: Cultural connections between Africa and the Americas”
The discussion will highlight the potential of cultural exchanges and joint tourism routes to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation between Latin America and the Caribbean and Africa. Emphasis will be placed on innovative approaches to cultural tourism and the role of creative industries in attracting tourists and generating income. In addition, the debate will explore how these industries can preserve cultural identities, promote responsible travel and boost economic growth.
Following the conclusion of this part of the Congress, the keynote address will be presented: “Panorama of tourism investments: trends and perspectives, context of Africa and the Americas.” The preliminary program indicates another working session will address the topic of Investment: “Unlocking the potential of tourism investments for and between Africa and the Americas.”
Investment in tourism is critical for economic growth and job creation in Latin America and the Caribbean and Africa. This session aims to bring together investors, government officials, multilateral financial institutions and industry stakeholders to explore tourism investment opportunities and discuss innovative financing mechanisms to transform them into reality. Participants will share best practices and discuss strategic partnerships, financing models and key tools to boost investment in tourism through initiatives such as the “Tourism Doing Business Investing In” series of guidelines. Discussions will also emphasize the role of foreign direct investment (FDI) and public-private partnerships (PPPs) in developing strong tourism sectors that contribute to economic resilience and sustainability.
The program includes the following sessions:
Keynote lecture: “The growing role of public and private banking in tourism investment”
Presentation: “Successful model of public and private management for tourism development”
Setting the stage: “The power of education in creating opportunities”
UN Tourism – World Tourism Organization
Education: “Building a better tomorrow, today”
The future of tourism in the Americas and Africa depends on a well-trained, informed, and adaptable workforce. This session will focus on the critical role of education and skills development in ensuring the competitiveness of the tourism sector on both continents. Participants will discuss joint capacity-building initiatives, curriculum development, and partnerships between academic institutions, industry stakeholders, and government agencies. The session will explore innovative strategies to close skills gaps and prepare the workforce for the demands of the modern tourism industry. Emphasis will be placed on the use of digital education and vocational training programs tailored to the unique needs of the Americas and Africa. By fostering collaboration and leveraging technology, this session aims to equip the tourism workforce with the skills needed to drive sustainable growth and economic prosperity in both regions.
Innovation: “Young talents leading the transformation”
In the Americas and Africa, where diverse cultural and natural attractions present unique opportunities for innovative tourism development, innovation is driving the evolution of the sector, with startups playing a key role in economic prosperity. Young entrepreneurs, bringing fresh perspectives, are rapidly adopting new technologies and practices.
sustainable. Their involvement ensures that the sector meets the changing preferences of travellers, focusing on authenticity, sustainability and digitalisation.