Maputo, Mozambique, December 9, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Prime Minister Adriano Maleiane spearheaded the official opening ceremony of the 9th edition of the International Tourism Fair (FIKANI), emphasizing the crucial role of innovative solutions in fostering the development and sustainability of the tourism sector in the country. Maleiane underscored the need for a comprehensive approach that considers socio-cultural factors in promoting tourism.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Maleiane issued a challenge to all stakeholders in the sector, urging entrepreneurs, investors, and local communities to actively implement sustainable tourism measures. He emphasized that the growth of national tourism should be guided by responsible environmental resource exploitation, ensuring the preservation of natural ecosystems and providing tangible benefits to local communities.

In her opening speech, Minister of Culture and Tourism, Eldevina Materula, highlighted the event as an opportunity to rethink the country’s tourism strategy. She stressed the importance of offering new and innovative solutions, aligning with the overarching theme of the ninth edition: “FIKANI for Sustainable Tourism.”

A major highlight of the event was the launch of an Investment guidebook ”Tourism doing Business Investing in Mozambique” prepared by the UNWTO in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. UNWTO African Department Head, Elcia Grandcourt who did the launch in conjunction with the Prime Minister said the document highlights key areas of investment in the tourism sector in Mozambique.

The book, she added, is part of a series of guidebooks that UNWTO launched since last year. For the African region, the guidebook has been launched in Tanzania and Mauritius. The book contains an extensive information on the economic outlook, FDIs into the country as well existing opportunities for investment and doing business in Mozambique’s tourism.

The International Tourism Fair of Mozambique- Fikani, hosted 215 exhibitors, including representatives from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Namibia, and eSwatini. The event showcased diverse offerings and fostering collaborations within the international tourism community.

First published at VoyagesAfriq Magazine