From Mozambique, Fredson Bacar emphasized another essential component: the environmental sustainability tied to tourism. The country boasts more than 2,700 kilometers of coastline and roughly 25% of its territory dedicated to conservation areas, which presents both opportunities and challenges for tourism expansion. Bacar underlined that by respecting these spaces and promoting responsible tourism models, Mozambique can create jobs for young people and attract investment with positive social and environmental impact. It is worth noting that Mozambique was recently recognized as the “World’s Best Sustainable Tourism Destination 2025” at the 2025 World Tourism Awards, a distinction that highlights its efforts to harmonize tourism and nature.
Egypt’s minister, Sherif Fathy, presented his country as a model other African nations can look to. He pointed out that Egypt’s tourism expansion rests on a combination of increased air connectivity—for example, one northern coastal region recorded a 500% rise in air traffic this summer—robust tourism infrastructure (airports, roads, railways), and a training policy that prepares local youth through internships and partnerships with international institutions. The country’s strategy also covers a wide range of tourism products, from cultural heritage to beaches, desert experiences, and eco-tourism: “The goal is for Egypt to become the world’s leading tourism destination in the coming years, given its unparalleled variety of experiences,” Fathy said. He also highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in understanding traveler interests and tailoring tourism offerings to specific audience segments.
All three countries agreed that to make these ambitions a reality, it is essential to advance toward deeper regulation of tourism in Africa with “open skies” agreements that facilitate continental mobility, streamlined or eliminated visas among countries, and better communication between destinations. On a global note, it was recalled that Africa received 74 million tourists in 2024—up 7% from the pre-pandemic period—and is projected to reach 82 million in 2025, making it the fastest-recovering region following the health crisis.
This renewed joint momentum sends a clear message: Africa is not just an emerging tourism backdrop; it is positioning itself as a determined actor ready to lead with homegrown models based on cooperation, sustainable investment, and local value creation. By linking infrastructure, employment, training, sustainability, and smart marketing, Angola, Mozambique, and Egypt are shaping a roadmap other countries can follow. As international travel flows seek more diverse and authentic destinations, this shared strategy opens the door for the continent to expand its market, improve competitiveness, and offer unique experiences to travelers worldwide.
