The Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC World) has formally launched its international operations at the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2026, calling for stronger partnerships, responsible investment and improved connectivity to expand Africa’s participation in the global tourism economy.
The launch, held at South Gallery, Room 20, ExCeL London, marked the third major milestone in AITEC World’s development and its ambition to build a platform linking African destinations, tourism businesses, investors and institutions with international markets.
Speaking at the event, AITEC World President Ambassador Dine Bouraima reaffirmed the organisation’s founding vision: “Linking Africa to the World and the World to Africa.”
He described tourism as a strategic tool for economic development, cultural understanding and international cooperation.
Bouraima said Africa must move beyond being recognised mainly for its natural beauty, cultural diversity and heritage.
He argued that the continent should secure a more meaningful role in the global tourism economy through increased investment in infrastructure, destinations, enterprises and human capital.
He also called for improved air connectivity, more accessible travel and expanded opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs.
“Our mission is not to build a one-way bridge. It is to create a two-way relationship of opportunity, trust and shared prosperity,” Bouraima said.
From Abuja to Addis Ababa and London
The London ceremony represents the latest stage in AITEC World’s international development journey.
The organisation held its first regional launch on August 14, 2025, at the InterContinental Hotel in Abuja, Nigeria. That event laid the foundation for a platform intended to bring together governments, private-sector operators, tourism professionals, investors and development partners.
Its second launch took place on November 6, 2025, at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The continental event broadened the organisation’s vision and highlighted the importance of regional integration, cooperation and connectivity in shaping Africa’s tourism future.
Bouraima said the London launch signals a transition from AITEC World’s founding phase to a period of wider international engagement and practical implementation.
“From Abuja to Addis Ababa, and from Addis Ababa to London, our journey reflects the very essence of our mission: Linking Africa to the World and the World to Africa,” he said.
Six strategic priorities
At the ceremony, Bouraima outlined six strategic priorities that will guide AITEC World’s global activities.
They include raising the international visibility and competitiveness of African tourism destinations; improving mobility and connectivity through dialogue on visa facilitation, air transport and regional travel; mobilising investment and expanding business opportunities; strengthening knowledge, policy dialogue and innovation; promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism; and connecting tourism ecosystems across Africa and the wider world.
He said the organisation would support stronger destination branding, improved market access and closer links between African tourism operators and international buyers.
Bouraima also stressed the importance of responsible investment, research, professional expertise and technological innovation in strengthening tourism planning and decision-making.
On sustainability, he said tourism growth must protect cultural heritage, respect the environment and create meaningful opportunities for local communities, women, young people and small businesses.
He described the six priorities as the foundation for future programmes, partnerships and measurable results.
WTM London as a platform for engagement
Bouraima described WTM London as an important platform for connecting Africa’s tourism potential with international commercial opportunities and practical cooperation.
He urged travel dealers to strengthen links between African destinations and global markets.
Airlines and transport companies, he said, should work towards improving access and connectivity, while investors and financial institutions should view Africa’s tourism sector through the lens of responsible investment and long-term partnerships.
He further called on governments and international institutions to support enabling policies, deepen cooperation and remove unnecessary barriers to tourism development.
Bouraima emphasised that AITEC World was not created to replace existing institutions, but to complement their efforts, connect their strengths and translate shared objectives into practical cooperation.
“Our purpose is collaboration, not competition. Our ambition is impact, not prestige. Our measure of success is progress, not publicity,” he said.
Africa Tourism Dialogue announced
Looking beyond the London launch, Bouraima announced plans for the Africa Tourism Dialogue, scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa from November 12 to 14, 2026, as part of the tourism component of Africa Celebrates, which runs from November 10 to 15.
The dialogue is expected to bring together policymakers, tourism industry leaders, investors, development institutions and other stakeholders to examine practical solutions to challenges confronting African tourism.
It will also seek to strengthen the continent’s links with the wider global economy.
Bouraima said the London launch should not be viewed as the conclusion of AITEC World’s founding journey, but as the beginning of a new chapter focused on international partnerships, implementation and delivery.
Emphasis on measurable results
The AITEC World president cautioned that the organisation should be judged by the opportunities it creates and the impact of its activities, rather than by the number of ceremonies, speeches or titles associated with its growth.
He said its partnerships must deliver tangible outcomes, its meetings must generate opportunities and its commitments must be followed by implementation.
The organisation, he added, would seek to demonstrate its value through initiatives that support tourism businesses, strengthen international cooperation and improve opportunities for destinations and communities.
Bouraima also thanked AITEC World’s leadership, executive board, advisers, representatives, global ambassadors, technical commissioners, members, partners and supporters.
He described institution-building as a collective responsibility dependent on shared commitment and collaboration.
Speakers and dignitaries
The event featured a keynote address by the Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Dr Ola Awakan, who spoke on the need to strengthen cooperation between Africa and the rest of the world in tourism.
Other speakers included Dr Memunatu Pratt, former Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of Sierra Leone; Dr Badaki Aliyu, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria, represented by the federation’s First Deputy President, Mrs Susan Akporiaye; and Mr Nkereuwem Onung, Senior Special Adviser to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Special Adviser to AITEC World.
Also participating were Mrs Bolaji Mustapha, President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators; and Dr Olanma Ojukwu, AITEC World’s national representative in Benin Republic, who presented the organisation’s international strategic vision, mission and objectives.
The speakers and other tourism stakeholders expressed support for AITEC World’s mission of linking Africa with the world while bringing international opportunities closer to African destinations, businesses and travellers.
Another highlight of the event was the presentation of the London Declaration by Onung.
The ceremony was directed by Mr Ayo Omotoso, Director of Communication and Membership, AITEC World Nigeria. The vote of thanks was delivered by Mrs Abiosoye Odeyemi, Director of Culture and Creative Industries, AITEC World Nigeria.
The launch concluded with a renewed call for tourism to serve as a catalyst for economic development, cultural understanding, international friendship and a more connected world.
AITEC World said its international launch at WTM London marked a shift from establishment to broader global engagement, with the organisation now focused on building partnerships capable of delivering practical benefits for African tourism destinations and their international partners.
