Interview with Nuria Lucia Beholi Epesi
H.E. Secretary of State for Tourism and Tourism Infrastructures - Equatorial Guinea
Nuria Lucia Beholi Epesi
H.E. Secretary of State for Tourism and Tourism Infrastructures - Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea, a nation located on the west coast of Africa, is a destination with enormous tourism potential thanks to its natural diversity, cultural richness and strategic location.
The country offers breathtaking landscapes, from paradisiacal beaches on the island of Bioko to lush tropical forests in the mainland region of Rio Muni. Highlights include the Monte Alén National Park, home to species such as gorillas, elephants and leopards, and the island of Corisco, with white sands and crystal-clear waters reminiscent of the best Caribbean destinations.
In addition to its natural wealth, Equatorial Guinea has a fascinating cultural diversity. Its population is composed of various ethnic groups, such as the Fang, Bubi and Ndowé, each with unique traditions and customs. In the capital, Malabo, you can visit Spanish colonial buildings, such as the Cathedral of Santa Isabel, and the Presidential Palace, which reflect the history of the country.
The government has also shown interest in diversifying the economy and boosting tourism with projects such as the modernization of airports, the construction of luxury hotels and the promotion of ecotourism. However, to achieve sustainable growth, it is necessary to improve connectivity, facilitate the entry of visitors and strengthen training in tourism services.
Equatorial Guinea has the potential to become a reference destination in Africa.
Dear Madam Ministers, are there any tax benefits, subsidies or facilities for investment in hotels, ecotourism or tourist transport within the country?
The Equatoguinean Government has full availability to encourage investment, so there is a projection of fiscal and economic facilities that motivate not only investment but also the creation of new services and economic activities.
We would like to know the most attractive places for national and international tourists, both on the mainland and on the islands.
Equatorial Guinea is a territorially small destination, but with a great natural and cultural diversity making it a destination in which any corner is a place worth knowing and discovering.
Are new hotels and resorts being built, and what standards of quality and comfort are being implemented to improve the visitor experience?
Tourist satisfaction is our priority, the guidelines are aimed at guaranteeing tourism services under international standards of quality, competitiveness and guaranteeing the expectations of visitors.
Equatorial Guinea has a great natural wealth, what programs have been implemented to protect the flora and fauna while developing ecotourism?
The laws for the protection of protected areas are the supporting element to guarantee the protection, conservation and preservation of Equatoguinean flora and fauna.
What measures are being taken to improve connectivity and accessibility to the country for international tourists?
The implementation of the online visa system is to create more accessibility channels, and the air connectivity plan will make possible a greater influx of commercial flights to and from Equatorial Guinea.
Are there new agreements with airlines or improvements in infrastructures such as airports and roads?
Reception infrastructures such as Equatoguinean airports are at the international forefront, and the road network covers the entire national territory.
How can the World Cocoa and Derivatives Tourism Destinations Network or the World Religious Tourism Network, programs of the Tourims and Society Think Tank, collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism of Equatorial Guinea?
Such collaboration involves the study and interaction of various national actors linked to the tourism sector; we express our willingness to study their proposals.
What measures are being implemented to ensure the safety of tourists and improve the perception of the country as a safe destination?
In Equatorial Guinea, tourists do not feel unsafe; in fact, we are a peaceful destination, a safe destination.
Are there training programs for tourism professionals?
Yes, through the units, professional training centers, and through collaboration and twinning agreements.
Are cultural, gastronomic or sporting events being developed to attract visitors and promote domestic and international tourism?
Yes, and we are also preparing the celebration of the International Tourism Fair of Central Africa-Equatorial Guinea (FITAC-Equatorial Guinea) to be held from October 27 to November 2, 2025.
What campaigns are being implemented to make Equatorial Guinea known in markets such as Europe, America or Asia?
Participation in International Fairs and Events, as well as a promotional media plan.
Are there incentives to organize congresses, fairs and international events in the country?
There is full availability to host international events.
Are applications, web pages or network campaigns being developed to facilitate information and attract more visitors?
Yes, because promotion is important to give visibility, and the use of new technology tools is essential.
From Tourism and Society Think Tank, we would like to express our sincere thanks to the Minister of Tourism of Equatorial Guinea for the interview she granted us. It has been an honor to learn first hand about her vision and commitment to tourism development in the country.
We deeply appreciate the time spent and the information shared about the plans and strategies to boost tourism in Equatorial Guinea. We firmly believe in the enormous potential of the country and the importance of promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism.
In this sense, we offer the Ministry all the resources, research and proposals that we develop in Tourism and Society Think Tank, in order to provide innovative ideas and collaborate in the growth of the tourism sector.
The authors are responsible for the choice and presentation of the facts contained in this document and for the opinions expressed therein, which are not necessarily those of Tourism and Society Think Tank and do not commit the Organization, and should not be attributed to TSTT or its members.
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