All plans have been made to launch the much anticipated Africa- International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC -WORLD), a strategic global initiatives that will shape the future of tourism and economic cooperation between Africa and the rest of the world.
AITEC World Vice President, Communications and International Relations, Ambassador Kazeem Balogun who disclosed this at a Press Briefing in Abuja on Thursday said this initiative is crystal clear: to link Africa to the world and the world to Africa, using tourism as a catalyst for shared economic development.
The first unveiling of AITEC-World is scheduled to hold on Thursday 14th August 2025 at the prestigious Abuja Continental Hotel, the Nigeria’s capital while follow by Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in November 4-8 and London, United Kingdom in November 4-6 2026.
The Spokesman said the mission is to create a high-impact platform where tourism becomes more than leisure, but becomes a conduit for trade, investment, education, culture, innovation, peace, and human connection.
Adding that the initiative is built to drive strategic bilateral and multilateral collaborations between Africa and the global community, offering practical solutions to economic challenges and unleashing the full potential of the tourism sector as a transformative industry in the world.
He stated further that AITEC-WORLD is anchored on six foundational pillars that guide its work and inspire its initiatives: first is to strengthen Africa’s and global tourism brand, Improve Mobility and Connectivity.
Also, to drive Investment and Economic Growth, Strengthen Policies, Data, and Innovation, Promote Sustainable and Inclusive Development and the sixth one is to integrate African and International Tourism.
“It is our utmost believe that with once we implement all these major pillars among other ones, we would be able to elevate Africa’s rich heritage while fostering intercultural dialogue across the world and attracting global capital and facilitating investments in tourism, infrastructure, SMEs, and sustainable ventures across the world”.
Giving reason for the launch in Abuja, Amb. Balogun said a global movement begins in Nigeria, adding that the launch of AITEC-WORLD in the country, Thursday 14th August 2025, marks a historic milestone as Nigeria is a very strong country in tourism business, judging from it’s population in the world.
He said, “This is not just a ceremony, it is the birth of a movement that seeks to reposition Africa as a global tourism and economic powerhouse. Even though, we have our headquarters in Cotonou, Benin Republic and other regional offices in London, Paris, Madrid and counting.
“The launch will bring together key government officials, diplomatic missions, international organizations, tourism boards, private sector leaders, creatives, youth groups, development partners, and media professionals—all united under one agenda: Tourism for Economic Advancement: from Africa to the World.
“The Abuja launch is only the beginning. We are proud to announce that AITEC- WORLD will continue its strategic rollouts with upcoming regional launches:
“Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – from 4th to 8th November 2025. A symbolic city, home to the African Union and the beating heart of continental diplomacy. We will engage with global institutions and development bodies to further integrate tourism into broader development goals.
“London, United Kingdom – from 4th to 6th November 2026. Positioned as our global gateway launch into Europe and beyond. London’s launch will consolidate our international partnerships and strengthen our visibility in the global tourism economy”, he added.
The Spokesman called on governments, private sector stakeholders, academia, youth, creatives, media, and passionate change-makers to join this global family. “It’s your platform. This is the opportunity to be part of a bold and inclusive movement committed to changing narratives and building futures”.
