MONDAY April 1, 2024
By Adam Ihucha
The Tranquility News Correspondent, Tanzania
As the sun-kissed plains of Arusha, Tanzania, prepare for welcoming the world, local tour operators are fine-tuning their tourism packages.
Why? Because the stakes are high—the top travel agents from across the globe are converging for the inaugural International Tourism Summit 2024.
From May 20 to 23, 2024, the exquisite Gran Melia Hotel in the heart of Arusha City will host this momentous event.
Picture it: 100 influential travel agents, each a gatekeeper to wanderlust, gathering under one roof.
This is why the buzz is palpable, and anticipation hangs in the air.
A Symphony of Opportunities
Organised by the local dynamic duo of African Queen Adventures and Rethinking Tourism Africa (RTA), this summit convened by the International Ecotourism Society, is not just another industry gathering, rather it is a symphony of business possibilities.
Hundreds of local tour operators are enrolling for the B2B exhibition, eager to forge connections with these seasoned professionals.
The Tanzanian Tapestry
Arusha, the Tanzania’s majestic safari capital, provides the perfect backdrop. Against this canvas, the convergence promises an immersive experience—one that will linger in memories. Local tour operators and hotels have secured their spaces, ready to showcase their services and products.
The top 100 global travel agents will witness Tanzania’s untamed wilderness, engage with local communities, and marvel at its breathtaking landscapes.
A Visionary Partnership
Ms Alice Manupa, the CEO of African Queen Adventures, co-hosts this historic summit. For her, it is more than an event—it is a commitment to President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of revitalising Tanzanian tourism.
“As travel agents explore our pristine landscapes, they’ll carry the essence of this extraordinary land with them,” Ms Manupa noted.
A Trailblasing Introduction
The African Queen Adventures’ esteemed business partner, Mr Murtaza Kalender, the Founder and CEO of TravelShop Turkey & Vice President of the International Ecotourism Society, deserves applause.
His decision to bring the summit to Africa—specifically Tanzania—opens new horizons.
“This is our chance to introduce a magnificent, undiscovered destination to tourism professionals worldwide,” Mr Murtaza explained.
Wilderness Unveiled
The International Tourism Summit Africa 2024 is not just about boardrooms and handshakes. The ITSA will orchestrate an extraordinary familiarisation (fam) trip.
“Imagine the top agents exploring our natural national parks, encountering diverse wildlife, and falling in love with Tanzania’s soul-stirring beauty,” Ms Manupa said.
A Monumental Occasion
Mr Sirili Akko, the CEO of the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), echoes their excitement.
“The arrival of the top 100 global travel agents is monumental. It signals their confidence in our nation—a premier destination for travel and adventure,” Mr Akko said.
Opening Doors
“As the B2B interactions unfold, local tour companies stand to gain. These doors swing wide open, bridging continents and creating lasting partnerships,” Ms Edna Foya, the RTA Director, said.
As it stands now, Arusha, with its sunsets and savannas, becomes more than a city—it is a gateway to dreamsΩ
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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.
