African Travel and Tourism Industry could contribute $168bn to GDP in the next decade (WTTC)

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Travel & Tourism Growth in Africa

Introduction:

The travel and tourism industry in Africa has the potential to significantly contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). According to a report published on November 2 by the World Travel and Tourism Council, this sector has the capacity to contribute an estimated $168 billion to Africa’s GDP and generate about 18 million new jobs over the next decade.

Current Growth Trajectory:

The report, titled “Unlocking opportunities for Travel & Tourism growth in Africa,” highlights an expected average growth rate of 5.1% per year in the travel and tourism industry in Africa. This growth rate is almost twice as fast as the overall economy of the continent.

Key Policies for Accelerated Growth:

To accelerate the pace of growth in the travel and tourism industry, the report emphasizes the necessity for African governments to implement three key policies:

1. Improving air transport infrastructure
2. Facilitating visa issuance
3. Strengthening tourism marketing

Growth Potential and Impact:

The African travel and tourism industry has experienced significant growth over the past two decades. In the year 2000, the sector was worth $75 billion, and by 2019, it had reached $186 billion, accounting for approximately 7% of the continent’s GDP.

This remarkable growth has also led to the creation of several million new jobs. In 2019, the tourism sector employed 25 million people on the continent, compared with 12.3 million in 2000.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • Target 8.9: By 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.
   • Indicator 8.9.1: Tourism direct GDP as a proportion of total GDP and in growth rate.
   • Indicator 8.9.2: Proportion of jobs in tourism industries out of total jobs.

2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   • Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all.
   • Indicator 9.1.1: Proportion of the rural population who live within two kilometers of an all-season road.
   • Indicator 9.1.2: Passenger and freight volumes, by mode of transport.

3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

   • Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard.
   • Indicator 10.3.1: Proportion of population reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed in the previous 12 months on the basis of a ground of discrimination prohibited under international human rights law.

4. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

   • Target 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private, and civil society partnerships, building on the experience and resourcing strategies of partnerships.
   • Indicator 17.17.1: Amount of United States dollars committed to public-private partnerships.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Analysis

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs addressed in the article include:

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

The article emphasizes the potential of the travel and tourism industry to contribute to Africa’s GDP and generate new jobs. This aligns with SDG 8, which aims to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

The article mentions the need for improving air transport infrastructure to unlock the sector’s potential. This relates to SDG 9, which focuses on building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

The article highlights the importance of eliminating discriminatory laws and policies to ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities. This aligns with SDG 10, which aims to reduce inequalities within and among countries.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

The article emphasizes the role of partnerships between governments, private sector, and civil society in unlocking the potential of the travel and tourism industry. This relates to SDG 17, which focuses on strengthening global partnerships for sustainable development.

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:

• Target 8.9: By 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates

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  Source: ecofinagency.com

   

  

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