Sierra Leone is set to host the UN Women in Tourism Africa Regional Congress from October 29 to 31, 2024, marking a significant event for the continent’s tourism sector.

In collaboration with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and supported by UN Women and the African Union, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs in Sierra Leone will spearhead this three-day gathering in Freetown.

Themed “Beyond Empowerment to Education, Innovation, and Finance Access,” the congress aims to advance women’s roles in the tourism industry by focusing on leadership, financial inclusion, and technological integration.

Hon. Nabeela Farida Tunis, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and Chair of the Women in Tourism Leadership Africa Committee (WITLAC), emphasized the importance of this event in empowering women across Africa’s tourism sector.

“This congress will provide a platform to enhance women’s leadership and equip them with the tools to access education, financial resources, and innovative technologies,” Tunis stated.

She views the congress as an opportunity for women to move beyond traditional discussions of empowerment and instead focus on practical solutions and initiatives that drive real change.

The congress will attract a diverse group of stakeholders, including high-level policymakers, industry leaders, and women entrepreneurs from across Africa.

The agenda is packed with high-level panel discussions, case studies on gender-responsive policies, and a dedicated workshop on expanding financial access for women.

A key focus will be on the use of new technologies and digital tools to support women-led businesses in tourism.

One of the highlights of the congress will be mentorship opportunities designed to foster connections between experienced leaders and emerging female entrepreneurs.

These sessions aim to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving tourism landscape.

The event will culminate in a closed session chaired by Hon. Tunis, where the WITLAC Action Plan for 2025-2026 will be unveiled. This strategic blueprint will outline fundraising efforts and initiatives to expand women’s participation in tourism leadership roles across Africa.

Hon. Tunis expressed optimism about the outcomes of the congress, stating, “This is more than just a conversation; it’s a turning point for women in tourism. By coming together, we can ensure that women are not only participants but leaders in shaping the future of Africa’s tourism industry.”