African Development Bank delegates and conservation experts attending COP16 in Cali, Colombia, have urged joint efforts to increase investment in ecotourism in Africa, emphasizing the sector's potential to drive sustainable development across the continent.
They made the call during a side event hosted by the African Development Bank on Tuesday under the theme: "Valorizing Protected Areas to Promote Ecotourism in Africa." The event, held at the MDB Pavilion, explored the untapped potential of ecotourism to promote sustainable development, protect biodiversity, and create economic opportunities.
Africa, home to the world's second-largest ecological system after the Amazon, is rich in biodiversity and natural resources. Despite this, the continent remains one of the least visited regions for ecotourism. Recognizing this disparity, the Bank has increasingly received requests from its Regional Member Countries to support the development of ecotourism as a critical driver of green growth and sustainable development.
Ecotourism, which offers a unique opportunity to boost local economies, especially in rural areas where national parks are located, can also play a critical role in preserving the continent's unique ecosystems and generating well-paid jobs.
Participants discussed how ecotourism can be harnessed to unlock Africa's ecological and economic potential. Speakers highlighted the importance of creating conducive regulatory frameworks and addressing existing challenges that hinder the development of the ecotourism industry. A key point raised was the role of public-private partnerships in expanding small-scale, community-driven ecolodges and tourism enterprises.
Former International Union for Conservation of Nature Representative Bihini Won Musiti highlighted the unique opportunities in the Democratic Republic of Congo: " Our protected areas cover 32% of the national territory, and 80% of our tourism is ecotourism. However, persistent gaps between potential and profitability remain key challenges we must address to move forward." Musiti stressed the need to bridge these gaps for sustainable ecotourism development. He also highlighted some successful ecotourism projects at community levels that need to be scaled up.
The Principal Environmental Specialist at the African Development Bank, Amadou Bamba Diop who moderated the session, emphasized strengthening regulatory frameworks to unlock Africa's ecotourism potential. " By strengthening regulatory frameworks and promoting investments in ecotourism, we can ensure that natural resources become a driver of sustainable development across the continent," he stated, stressing the link between environmental protection and economic growth.
Jimmiel Mandima, Vice President of Global Programs and Institutional Giving at the International Fund for Animal Welfare, noted that ecotourism could be a game-changer for Africa, but only with concerted efforts and investments. "We need to create enabling environments for ecotourism to thrive, ensuring that local communities benefit and ecosystems are protected. This is the pathway to inclusive and sustainable growth," he said.
Participants explored how the African Development Bank and its partners can provide technical assistance, financial support, and policy guidance to African countries aiming to develop ecotourism strategies. This approach not only attracts private sector investment but also ensures that tourism development is inclusive and benefits local communities.
The event concluded with a call for concerted efforts from governments, the private sector, and development partners to elevate Africa's standing in the global ecotourism market and help it realize its full potential as a leader in sustainable tourism. The Bank also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Africa's transition towards inclusive, green growth by valorizing its protected areas and natural assets.
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