The Seychelles Tourism Department, in collaboration with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), organized a comprehensive workshop to delve into the intricacies of the cruise tourism sector in Seychelles. This two-and-a-half-day event, held in August 2024, aimed to conduct a thorough evaluation of the sector’s potential and assess its impact on the island nation’s economy and environment.
The workshop built upon a situational analysis conducted by UNECA in April 2024, providing a platform for key stakeholders, including government officials, industry leaders, environmentalists, and community representatives, to engage in meaningful discussions and contribute valuable feedback. The event was inaugurated by prominent figures such as Professor Pius Odunga, Ms. Carine Rukera, and Dr. Geoffrey Manyara from UNECA, alongside Mr. Paul Lebon, Director General for Destination Planning and Development at the Seychelles Tourism Department.
The workshop delved into various aspects of the cruise tourism sector, including infrastructure, services, and market trends, while also examining the challenges and opportunities presented by this burgeoning industry. Participants focused on the environmental, social, and economic impacts of cruise tourism, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and responsible development. A key objective was to enhance collaboration among government agencies, local businesses, and communities to foster a more harmonious relationship between the tourism sector and the local populace.
The agenda encompassed keynote presentations on global trends, sustainability practices, and relevant case studies, followed by panel discussions that fostered critical thinking and facilitated the exchange of ideas. The second day was dedicated to strategic planning, with breakout sessions focusing on crucial areas such as infrastructure development, environmental management, marketing strategies, and community engagement. The workshop concluded with a plenary session where outcomes from the breakout sessions were presented, discussed, and prioritized, paving the way for future action.
The consultants from UNECA are expected to return in the fourth quarter of 2024 to validate the findings and present the final report. Recognizing the global scope of the cruise industry and the limited bargaining power of destinations like Seychelles, UNECA is developing strategies to enhance the financial outcomes for the country, ensuring that the benefits of cruise tourism are equitably distributed and contribute to the sustainable development of the Seychelles.
