The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has set an ambitious target of attracting 10 million intra-community tourists by 2029 under its Regional Tourism Policy (ECOTOUR 2021–2030). In a major step toward this goal, the ECOWAS Commission recently convened a high-level regional workshop on responsible tourism and the free movement of people in Banjul, The Gambia. The event brought together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for boosting tourism within the region, addressing policy challenges, and strengthening economic integration.
Dr. Anthony Elumelu, ECOWAS Private Sector Director, represented ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Ms. Massandjé Touré-Litse, at the workshop. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of harmonizing policies, fostering cross-border cooperation, and implementing inclusive actions to facilitate seamless travel across West Africa. Ms. Ndeye Tabara Touray, Director of Regional Integration and Head of the ECOWAS National Office in The Gambia, also underscored the significance of participatory strategies in advancing regional integration, ensuring that policies benefit local communities and businesses.
Experts at the event highlighted The Gambia’s crucial role as a leading tourist destination within ECOWAS. The country’s tourism sector generates an estimated $85 million annually, contributes 20% to its GDP, and supports over 82,000 direct and indirect jobs. With ECOWAS pushing for greater regional travel and economic integration, the implementation of these recommendations is expected to boost tourism revenues, create jobs, and strengthen the economic ties among West African nations.
The ECOWAS Commission remains committed to fostering a thriving regional tourism sector, ensuring that by 2029, West Africa emerges as a seamless and attractive travel destination for millions of tourists within the region.
