By Janefrances Chibuzor
Tourism leaders and stakeholders from across West Africa converged in Accra on Friday for the opening ceremony of the 8th edition of the Africa Travel Expo, Accra Weizo, a sub-regional platform designed to enhance tourism collaboration, ease cross-border travel, and promote cultural integration across Economic Community of West African States(ECOWAS) member states.
The 2025 edition, which is currently ongoing, began with a high-level stakeholders’ conference held at the Accra City Hotel under the theme “Reimagining the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol.” The theme reflects growing regional calls for deeper integration and urgent reforms to improve mobility and unlock the full potential of the tourism industry across West Africa.
Delegates from over ten countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Senegal, The Gambia, and Côte d’Ivoire, joined by participants from Rwanda and Europe, were in attendance. The gathering brought together government officials, private sector leaders, airline executives, tour operators, hoteliers, academics, and digital creators with a shared goal of advancing seamless regional tourism.
Convener of the Africa Travel Expo and regional tourism advocate, Ambassador Ikechi Uko, delivered the opening remarks with a firm call for unity and visionary action.
“West Africa has over 400 million people, some of the largest economies, and some of the most talented individuals. But we continue to receive the least number of tourists. If we acted as a bloc, West Africa would be one of the most powerful destinations in the world,” Uko said.
He recounted a 2024 tourism road trip from Nigeria to Ghana, highlighting various border delays and inconsistencies except in Ghana, which he commended for its seamless and welcoming border experience.
“Ghana stood out as adaptable and efficient. We need the rest of the region to adopt that standard,” he added.
Uko also announced that future editions would feature a full-fledged West African Food Festival, expanding on the success of the “Jollof Rice Wars”. The planned competition will include dishes from Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, The Gambia, and Togo, judged by a neutral panel from East and Southern Africa.
Making her first keynote appearance at a regional forum, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Mrs Maame Houadjeto, pledged Ghana’s commitment to lead and support regional tourism integration.
“Ghana is committed to building new corridors of connectivity, partnering on multi-country packages, and supporting joint training, marketing, and digital innovation,” she said.
Houadjeto further referenced Ghana’s “Beyond the Return” initiative as a template for reconnecting with the African diaspora and advancing the region’s collective tourism identity.
“West Africa is a family. The world doesn’t want just destinations, they want experiences. And we must offer those together, not in isolation,” she added.
Charles Adu-Gyamfi, speaking for the Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF), commended the Expo organisers and echoed the urgent need to simplify travel procedures across the sub-region.
“Despite our population, inter-regional tourism remains low. We must simplify border procedures, standardise service delivery, and improve professionalism,” he said, reaffirming GHATOF’s support for a borderless tourism ecosystem.
In a goodwill message, Yvonne Donkor, President of the Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA), praised the theme as timely and relevant, stating that the free movement of people and services is a cornerstone of regional prosperity.
“This gathering is not only relevant, it is critical. TOUGHA remains committed to policies that empower local operators and strengthen a unified market,” she said, urging delegates to “see Ghana, eat Ghana, buy Ghana, and enjoy our legendary hospitality.”
Prof. Kobby Mensah, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC), called for bold innovation in the sector, stressing that digital transformation is key to scaling African tourism.
“We haven’t been bold enough. Africa is a tourism continent. To scale, we need research, digital tools, and tailored experiences powered by technology,” he said.
Other key figures in attendance included Alhaja Bolaji Mustapha, President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP); Ivan Mugisha from Rwand Air; and representatives of Carnival Calabar, who were honoured despite their absence following the recent loss of two band leaders.
Transport operators such as Sea Coach Express, operating between Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone, were also acknowledged.
These individuals and organisations were recognised as “Champions” and “Enablers” of West African tourism, lauded for their resilience and contributions to regional travel despite structural constraints.
Throughout the opening day, participants engaged in policy-focused seminars and panels, exploring proposals such as a regional tourism visa, harmonised travel documentation, and infrastructure development to support easier movement across ECOWAS member states.
Tour operators from Nigeria, Togo, Benin, and The Gambia called for stronger partnerships among national tourism boards and a joint monitoring committee to ensure enforcement of ECOWAS travel protocols.
A tea break during the sessions provided a platform for networking and exchange, giving stakeholders the chance to build connections and explore collaborative opportunities.
Organisers confirmed that Africa Travel Expo, Accra Weizo will continue over the weekend with additional activities, including the announcement of a 2026 regional tourism road trip and the highly anticipated West African Food Festival.
“We’re not just hosting events, we’re building a movement,” Amb. Uko said in his closing remarks on the opening day.
As the 8th edition continues, there is growing momentum among participants to translate discussions into action, and to realise the ECOWAS vision of free movement through a vibrant, borderless tourism industry.
