The African Tourism Board (ATB) and Afreximbank are collaborating to propel sustainable tourism development in São Tomé and Príncipe, a beautiful island nation off the coast of West Africa. Their joint efforts aim to attract international investors, improve infrastructure, and empower local communities to thrive in the tourism sector.
This partnership goes beyond simply attracting tourists; it focuses on building a robust tourism ecosystem that benefits the entire country. ATB and Afreximbank will work together to establish platforms for knowledge exchange, provide training programs, and implement capacity-building initiatives. These initiatives are designed to equip local communities and businesses with the skills and resources they need to actively participate in the development of the tourism industry. This approach ensures that the benefits of tourism are widely distributed, contributing to inclusive growth and social development.
A key event in this collaboration is the São Tomé and Príncipe Investment Forum (STEP), scheduled for September 2024. This forum will serve as a vital platform to showcase São Tomé’s unique tourism potential to a global audience. Government officials, private investors, and international organizations will gather to discuss strategies for boosting tourism, agrotourism, and eco-tourism in the region.
The forum will highlight priority investment projects designed to develop sustainable tourism infrastructure, enhance agrotourism ventures, and preserve São Tomé’s rich natural and cultural heritage. The focus on sustainable practices ensures that the development of tourism aligns with the preservation of the environment and local traditions.
Beyond promoting tourism and agrotourism, ATB and Afreximbank are committed to supporting broader economic development initiatives in São Tomé and Príncipe. This includes efforts to improve transportation networks, upgrade hospitality facilities, and implement energy efficiency projects. These projects will make the country more accessible and attractive to visitors while maintaining eco-friendly standards.
The partnership will also see the establishment of green tourism zones, where businesses operate with a strong focus on environmental preservation. These zones will generate local employment, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism reach the communities where it takes place.
This partnership between ATB and Afreximbank is expected to significantly contribute to São Tomé and Príncipe’s GDP and solidify its position as a premier destination in Africa’s rapidly growing tourism market. By working closely with local government agencies, international investors, and key stakeholders, they aim to ensure that the nation’s tourism sector flourishes sustainably, benefiting the entire country for generations to come.
