Tourism players to meet in Arusha in September
What you need to know:
- Organizers are optimistic that the event will surpass last year’s attendance of 450 delegates and exhibitors, thanks to the resurgence of the international tourism market after the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Arusha. Rethinking Tourism Africa (RTA) will assemble industry leaders to highlight tourism and peace’s role in unlocking investment and growth in Tanzania in September this year.
The high profile World Tourism Day and the East African Travel and Tourism Show, will be held in Arusha, organizers said yesterday.
The dual events run concurrently will attract dignitaries, celebrities, and experts, including the US celebrity, Mr Michael Ruggiero, who will grace the shows.
“Mr Ruggiero, an acclaimed American celebrity, will contribute significantly to the events as part of his mission to produce a groundbreaking documentary on Tanzania’s tourism,” RTA Director Ms Edna Foya said.
The documentary, once completed, is slated to air on major television networks in the USA, ensuring significant outreach.
Mr Ruggiero and his partner Haley Jackson are currently in the pre-production phase of a documentary tentatively titled “Wings Over Tanzania.”
Inspired by the historic flying safaris conducted by Osa and Martin Johnson between 1929 and 1930, this ambitious project aims to highlight Tanzania’s natural beauty and adventurous spirit.
These pioneering expeditions hold a legendary status in the annals of adventure and exploration. “Wings Over Tanzania’ is expected to be a game-changer for Tanzanian tourism,” Mr Ruggiero said.
Experts predict that the documentary’s worldwide exposure could attract an additional three to five million visitors to Tanzania over the next five years, providing a tremendous boost to the country’s economy and solidifying Tanzania’s status as a top travel destination.
“The documentary aims to capture Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, appealing to adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike,” he noted.
By revisiting the routes and experiences of Osa and Martin Johnson’s flying safaris, Ruggiero intends to draw parallels between the past and present, showcasing Tanzania’s enduring allure.
Distinguished global speakers at the World Tourism Day 2024 commemoration on the theme ‘Tourism and Peace’ include Mr Marcel Leijzer, Technical Cooperation Manager at UN-Tourism (formerly UNWTO), and Ms Janine Wencke of Mascountor, South Africa.
The event will attract hundreds of influential figures from the global tourism industry, taking place from September 25th to 27th, 2024, at the Gran Melia Hotel in Arusha city.
Rethinking Tourism Africa (RTA) organizes this notable tourism conference and indoor travel fair in East Africa in collaboration with the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA).
Organizers are optimistic that the event will surpass last year’s attendance of 450 delegates and exhibitors, thanks to the resurgence of the international tourism market after the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
”We anticipate nearly 600 delegates and exhibitors this year, along with numerous media representatives and international visitors,” said Ms Foya.
“For entrepreneurs, this is a prime opportunity to network with tourism business owners, directors, managers, academicians, and key decision-makers under one roof.
”With just over two months remaining, global anticipation and excitement for the event are rising, with some describing it as ‘the most significant indoor conference and show ever.’
