THURSDAY July 25, 2024
By Adam Ihucha
The Tranquility News Correspondent, Tanzania.
In the serene corridors of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa Summit in Zambia, a ripple of excitement swept through the assembly, a whisper among delegates and dignitaries alike.
The proud badge of honor now adorned the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), a beacon of excellence in tourism, as they were designated the global affiliate members’ representative.
This accolade was far more than just a title; it was an affirmation of Tanzania’s soaring relevance in the world of tourism.
Only a few moments before the announcement, an email had found its way to the inbox of Mr. Wilbard Chambulo, the esteemed Chairman of TATO. With bated breath, he opened the message that would enshrine his association in the annals of history.
“I am pleased to attach a letter from Mr. Ion Vilcu, Director of UN Tourism Affiliate Members and Public-Private Collaboration Department, and Ms. Mar de Miguel, Chair of the Board of Affiliate Members, regarding the designation of TATO as the representative of the affiliate members’ board at the 67th UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa.”
The words glimmered on the screen, each letter a testament to the dedication, hard work, and relentless pursuit of excellence by TATO.
To be appointed as the sole representative of the affiliate members on such a prominent stage was not just an honor for TATO but a radiant spotlight on the entire Tanzanian tourism industry.
The UN Tourism, once known discretely as the UN World Tourism Organization (UN-WTO), had meticulously chosen its representative from among a distinguished group of around 500 global entities.
This elite circle of affiliates spanned the globe, comprising revered universities, esteemed educational centres, destination management organisations intricately weaving the fabric of global tourism, private entities pushing the envelope in search for innovation, and professional or commercial associations setting benchmarks for professional excellence.
Yet amidst this global symphony, the African continent contributed a unique rhythm with only 22 affiliate members.
I am pleased to attach a letter from Mr. Ion Vilcu, Director of UN Tourism Affiliate Members and Public-Private Collaboration Department, and Ms. Mar de Miguel, Chair of the Board of Affiliate Members, regarding the designation of TATO as the representative of the affiliate members’ board at the 67th UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa,” UN Tourim’s message.
The rich cultural tapestry and the unspoiled natural beauty of Africa were embodied in this exclusive group, and now, TATO stood tall as their voice.
TATO’s designation echoed back to the vast, breathtaking plains of the Serengeti, where the spirit of adventure and the harmony of nature play a timeless tune.
It pulsed through the bustling streets of Arusha, where every turn breathes life into Tanzania’s promise of discovery.
Each tour operator and guide, every lodge and safari expedition, converged in this moment of pride, recognising the responsibilities and opportunities this new role bestowed upon them.
As whispers turned to applause in the Zambian hall, Mr. Chambulo envisioned the horizons yet to be charted.
This was not just a victory for TATO but a call to action for every affiliate member, a collective journey towards elevating Africa’s tourism narrative at the global stage.
Holding the mantle as the voice for these diverse and dynamic affiliates, TATO was now poised to advocate for sustainable practices, foster innovative tourism strategies, and catalyze collaboration that transcends borders.
This appointment was a clarion call for a future where Tanzania, and indeed Africa, was not just a destination, but a pioneering force in the global tourism landscape.
In Zambia, as dusk settled over the summit, a new dawn broke for Tanzanian tourism, an uncharted path paved with potential, promise, and pride.
TATO’s representation at this prestigious assembly marked a chapter that promised to be as lush and vibrant as the Serengeti itself, heralding a future where Tanzania’s roar would echo far beyond its borders.
In a historic moment for Tanzania, TATO’s nomination has significantly elevated the country’s burgeoning $3.5 billion tourism industry onto the global stage, unlocking new avenues for investment and development that promise to benefit not only Tanzania but also its neighbouring regions.
This prestigious recognition by a pivotal global organisation highlights Tanzania’s unwavering efforts to enhance its tourism industry, contributing to a broader vision of a thriving, interconnected, and sustainable tourism industry across Africa.
At the heart of this transformative journey, TATO Chairman Mr. Chambulo led a high-profile delegation of tourism industry leaders to the UN Tourism summit in Zambia.
Here, he passionately underscored the critical importance of collaboration in unlocking Africa’s vast investment and growth potential while effectively amplifying the Brand Africa voice.
Themed “Promoting Africa to Unlock Tourism Investments and the Industry Growth Potential,” the second edition of the UN Tourism Regional Conference on Brand Africa placed a spotlight on the indispensable need for collaboration and innovation across the continent.
In 2023, a landmark year for TATO, the organisation became an affiliate member of UN – Tourism during the 25th UN Tourism General Assembly in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
This move aimed at enhancing the role of TATO in global tourism by fostering essential alliances between the private and public sectors.
During his keynote address at the 67th UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa conference, Mr. Chambulo extended a heartfelt invitation to Member States.
He urged them to encourage their private tourism sectors to join the UNWTO affiliate members’ family.
This expansion, he emphasized, would significantly contribute to the network, enabling seamless integration and direct connection of tourism stakeholders with international entities—thereby promoting the internationalisation and dynamisation of national tourism industries.
The Board of Affiliate Members stands firmly behind UN-Tourism’s objective to attract affiliate members, especially from countries within the region that are vital tourism markets or destinations, yet currently have no representation.
These countries include Algeria, Botswana, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Tunisia, and others.
The Programme of Work for the Affiliate Members and the Public-Private Collaboration department has already accomplished several notable activities, one of which was hosting the 2nd World Sports Tourism Congress in Croatia last year.
At the conference, Mr. Chambulo announced a significant development: the 3rd edition of the World Sports Tourism Congress would take place in November 2024 in Madrid, in collaboration with the government of the Madrid Region.
He emphasized the crucial role of sports tourism in the Programme of Work and highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance affiliate members’ participation in key UN-Tourism statutory meetings, a commitment clearly demonstrated at the regional commission.
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Chambulo encouraged all Commission members to leverage the affiliate members’ network.
He stressed that such collaboration would make their countries’ tourism sectors more diverse, sustainable, and competitive, strengthening the collective voice of Africa on the global tourism stageΩ
Recommended Posts
The Tranquility News Reporter/Sub Editor, Tanzania
Patty Magubira is an experienced environmental and business editor whose career started at the Tanzania's state-owned newspaper - The Daily News. He is a man of perfection. Aided by his extensive training as a community forestry expert before joining Tanzania School of Journalism. Magubira had successfully held various key posts in newsrooms, giving him an unmatched connections in media fraternity. Having worked as a bureau chief in Arusha and Mwanza, he managed to build a team work, boosting sales to the highest level ever. He was then promoted to a sub-editor after completing a training in Nairobi, Kenya. His incredible experience, critical thinking and exposure are critical to the quality of any media outlet.
