Africa tourism to double by 2030

African countries are likely to double their earnings in tourism to Sh3.5 trillion in the 15 years and the Africa Development Bank (AfDB) predicts the tourism industry will be a mine gold for the continent. This is as governments and other value players embark on high hotel mega projects in addition to product diversification.

The bank's acting Chief Economist and Vice President Steve Kayizzi-Mugerwa, in a statement said international tourist arrivals will by 2030 increase to over 130 million from the current figures of 65 million. In recent years, African tourism has demonstrated rebirth following emergence of new set of tourists arriving in the continent including young people from the developed countries and citizens of emerging economies.

"This is because with the economic liberalisation of the African economies, that removed constraints on foreign currencies, and encouraged an increase in air transport, it is relatively easy to travel to and within the continent,"  said Mugerwa. "Tourist entrepreneurs are now kin to provide packages to the discerning traveler, incorporating leisure and cultural exposure. Policymakers are also beginning to address issues related to visas, in order to reduce bureaucratic hindrances. For example, in East Africa, a single visa allows you to travel within five countries."

He observed that the upward scenario will be driven by State's enthusiasm to improve infrastructure as well as diversify tourism products. "It is therefore clear that tourism will be an important driver of growth and livelihoods in Africa in years to come. Hotel construction could boost the domestic real estate sector, providing employment to thousands of young people," noted Mr Mugerwa. Statistics published in the "Africa Tourism Monitor" indicate that the continent received 65 million tourists.