CHUKS OKOH
For breaking barriers and showing strong commitment towards tourism development in Africa, organisers of Akwaaba African Travel Market have recognized top 100 women in the sector.
The recognition and encomium, which took place at the Travel Expo, holding at Eko Hotel and Suites, were bestowed on the women for reshaping and puting African tourism on the front burner in global tourism space.
Ugochi Madueke, Enugu State Commissioner for Tourism, spoke passionately about women’s pivotal role in tourism.
According to her, “When you talk about tourism, you talk about women. We have taken over the policing room. Yes, now we are there”.
She urged women to stay resolute, focused and determined despite challenges beleaguering development of the sector.
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Tourism, Nabeela Farida Tunis, who was represented at the event described women as ‘the heartbeat of African tourism’ going by their expansive contributions.
“Women dominate the workforce and shape digital experience. Women are now visible in conservation and violence management—owning and managing celebrated hotels.”
While acknowledging challenges such as limited access to finance, she called for systemic change and added that ‘the goal must move beyond empowerment to full expression, positioning women as drivers of inclusive growth’.
The Akwaaba African Travel Market highlights West Africa’s leading international travel and tourism exhibition, designed to promote intra-African travel, trade, and cultural exchange.
Convened by tourism expert Ikechi Uko and supported by partners including the Lagos State Government, Air Peace, Gambia, Wakanow, and Interswitch, the second day of the market featured a vibrant cultural display by Cross River State, showcasing the famous Calabar carnival that captivated the audience.
