Tanzania’s impressive organization of the 2023 World Tourism Day (WTD) celebration has drawn high praise from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Held on September 27th in Arusha, the event highlighted the critical role tourism plays in fostering global peace and cultural understanding, aligning with this year’s theme: “Tourism and Peace.”
According to UNWTO officials, the choice of Arusha as the host city for the event perfectly complemented the theme, showcasing Tanzania’s commitment to leveraging tourism as a force for global unity. Dr. Marcel Leijzer, a senior UNWTO representative, remarked that the conference ran smoothly, praising Tanzania’s strong track record in tourism leadership and its peaceful heritage.
Arusha, known as the “safari capital,” provided a fitting backdrop for a three-day conference that included a major travel fair. The expo attracted over 1,000 participants, including tourism industry stakeholders, who explored key topics like sustainable tourism, cultural exchange, and economic development. Industry leaders shared insights into how tourism fosters employment, local prosperity, and, by extension, long-term peace and stability.
This marks the third consecutive year Tanzania, in partnership with Rethinking Tourism Africa, hosted this international event. The success further solidifies the country’s reputation as a hub for global tourism dialogues and innovation.
Sirili Akko, a key figure in Tanzania’s tourism sector, emphasized the importance of such high-profile gatherings in promoting not only tourism but also knowledge exchange, stating that the conference had provided a valuable platform for the industry to grow and innovate.
The event was hailed by participants for its flawless organization and impactful discussions, with exhibitors from across the continent showcasing the region’s diverse tourism offerings. Tanzanian tourism companies were able to highlight their unique contributions to job creation and sustainable development, reinforcing the powerful connection between economic prosperity and peace.
The 2023 World Tourism Day celebration in Arusha stands as a symbol of Tanzania’s rising profile in the global tourism industry, with the event’s success underscoring the importance of collaboration and shared vision in driving the sector forward.