Tourism leaders from Africa and the Americas have united in a groundbreaking initiative aimed at making tourism a cornerstone of sustainable and inclusive development across both regions. This commitment was formalized through the adoption of the “Punta Cana Declaration,” which emerged from the inaugural joint meeting of the UN Tourism’s Regional Commissions for Africa and the Americas.
The event, which brought together around 200 high-level participants—including 14 ministers representing 27 countries (15 from the Americas and 12 from Africa)—focused on vital themes such as education and investment in the tourism sector. Emphasizing the historic connections and cultural richness shared between the two regions, the summit served as a pivotal platform for enhanced collaboration, innovation, and creative industries in tourism’s future.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili highlighted the summit’s significance, stating, “This gathering is a unique opportunity to create strategic partnerships and foster South-South cooperation, all aimed at enhancing the tourism sectors of both regions.” Joining him were David Collado, Minister of Tourism for the Dominican Republic, and Auxillia Mnangagwa, Patron for Tourism in Zimbabwe, who underscored the importance of cross-regional ties.
UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona emphasized the potential that both regions hold, stating, “Despite our rich heritage and landscapes, challenges like limited connectivity and regulatory barriers hinder our tourism relationship. Our objective is to confront these obstacles directly, promoting economic development, cultural exchange, and sustainability for our communities.”
The Punta Cana Declaration marks a significant step toward South-South cooperation, outlining shared commitments for tourism as a vehicle for inclusive development. The declaration stresses the need for intensified efforts in sustainable tourism development, prioritizing strategic investments, education, and innovation.
Key areas of focus in the declaration include:
- Strategic Investments: Enhancing public-private partnerships and improving connectivity between the regions through better air links and cultural exchanges.
- Skills Development and Training: Emphasizing the importance of tourism education and training, and promoting digital skills to strengthen the workforce.
- Innovation: Supporting entrepreneurial initiatives and innovative solutions focused on sustainability and climate action.
- Creative Industries: Harnessing the cultural sector to attract tourists and develop new destinations while ensuring that benefits are socially inclusive.
- Inter-Regional Cooperation: Conducting market analyses and research to identify growth opportunities and developing joint tourism strategies.
The summit also spotlighted the importance of investments and education in shaping the future of tourism. Leaders from both the public and private sectors, alongside financial institutions, assessed trends and opportunities for collaboration, particularly in driving the green transition in tourism.
In conclusion, the Punta Cana Declaration represents a pivotal moment in tourism collaboration between Africa and the Americas, with a shared vision of creating a sustainable, inclusive future through joint investment and education initiatives.
