UN Tourism Secretary General Highlights Namibia’s Role as a Model for Africa
Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary General of UN Tourism, spoke in Namibia, promoting the country as a model for Africa. He presented the ‘Tourism Doing Business’ Investment Guide and highlighted Namibia’s recent growth in foreign direct investment, infrastructure improvements, and diversification of its economy. His remarks emphasized the need for sustainable and inclusive tourism strategies.
Zurab Pololikashvili, the Secretary General of UN Tourism, delivered his remarks at the University of Science and Technology in Namibia, emphasizing the nation’s role as a guiding model for Africa and the world. Reflecting on the late Namibian President Hage Geingob’s words regarding youth and their responsibility for the future, Pololikashvili introduced the ‘Tourism Doing Business’ Investment Guide recently published by UN Tourism.
In his current visit, coinciding with the inauguration of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Pololikashvili reminisced on his earlier meetings with President Geingob, including the First ‘Brand Africa’ Forum in 2021, which successfully gathered leaders from various sectors across Africa and the globe. The Secretary General praised Namibia’s progress in attracting investments, especially noting the impressive $2.6 billion in foreign direct investment for 2023.
Pololikashvili highlighted significant investments from China, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, showcasing Namibia’s efforts to diversify its economy to include tourism, agriculture, and financial services beyond mining. He expressed pride in supporting Namibia’s investment endeavors with the ‘Tourism Doing Business’ guide, which focuses on sustainable and inclusive development strategies.
In his keynote speech titled ‘Sustainable Tourism: Harnessing Technology, Inclusion and Heritage for a Resilient Future,’ he identified advancements in Namibia’s infrastructure, such as enhanced road networks and expanded port facilities. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of building not just successful industries but a resilient future where everyone’s aspirations can thrive.
In conclusion, Zurab Pololikashvili’s recent address in Namibia underlines the nation’s notable achievements in tourism and investment diversification. The introduction of the ‘Tourism Doing Business’ guide reflects UN Tourism’s commitment to sustainable development. With a focus on young people and inclusive growth, Namibia is positioned as a prominent model for African nations and beyond.
Original Source: thediplomatinspain.com
