The UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa also welcomed the expansion of TAAG, "which improves connectivity in Africa and beyond," a development she noted that "indicates the need to accelerate the implementation of the Single Market for Africa and also unlock Africa's potential in tourism and transport."
At the continental level, the United Nations Tourism Agency (UN Tourism) urged African countries to harmonize visa policies to facilitate continental air connectivity, noting that cumbersome procedures and excessive fees are barriers to investment.
"Visa accessibility is essential, not only to facilitate tourism travel, but also for business, investment, cultural exchanges, and regional integration. We encourage [African] governments to work together to harmonize visa policies and become more competitive," said UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa, Elcia Grandcourt.
The official, speaking at a working session as part of the 2nd UN Tourism and ICAO Ministerial Conference on Tourism and Air Transport in Africa in Luanda, stated that partnerships between governments and investment partners "must address Africa's connectivity and security challenges, but also promote investments in tourism and transport infrastructure."
"These alliances are essential to unlock new opportunities for countries' economic investment. As we grow, we must also address the persistent challenges that limit transport and economic development: visas, difficult procedures, and excessive air fare fees, which become significant barriers to investment," she noted.
She also stated that the first ministerial conference on tourism and air transport in Africa, held in 2019 in Cape Verde, laid the foundation for combining tourism and transport development, noting that the sector is currently demonstrating resilience.
"Africa's current sector demonstrates resilience and growth, and according to current data, international arrivals increased by 9 percent in the first quarter of 2025 (...). This progress is encouraging, but it also challenges us to ensure that growth is sustainable, inclusive, and driven by solid policies and partnerships," she added.
This ministerial conference, taking place in the Angolan capital from July 22nd to 24th, promoted by UN Tourism and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), brings together government leaders from the African continent, aviation and tourism sector operators, and businesspeople.