Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Ashatu Kijaji, held high-level discussions with the Secretary-General of United Nations Tourism (UN Tourism), Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, on 29 April 2026 in Victoria Falls during the Second UN Tourism Regional Conference on Women’s Empowerment in Tourism in Africa.
During the meeting, Dr. Kijaji congratulated Ms. Al Nowais on becoming the first woman to lead UN Tourism, describing her appointment as a historic milestone for the global tourism sector.
She reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with UN Tourism in order to further develop and promote the tourism industry.
Dr. Kijaji highlighted Tanzania’s achievements in the tourism sector, noting its growing contribution to economic development, foreign exchange earnings, and employment creation.
She said ongoing reforms and investments in tourism infrastructure, marketing, and diversification of tourism products were helping to position Tanzania as a leading destination in Africa.
The discussions also focused on upcoming major events, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027, which will be hosted in East Africa, with Tanzania as one of the host countries.
Dr. Kijaji extended a formal invitation to the UN Tourism Secretary-General to attend the tournament and witness the continental sporting event.
She also requested technical support from UN Tourism, particularly in the use of modern digital technologies to enhance Tanzania’s global promotion and visibility during the event.
In addition, the Minister informed Ms. Al Nowais that Tanzania will host the World Travel Awards 2026 in December this year and officially invited her to attend as a special guest of honour, highlighting the event as an important platform to showcase Tanzania’s tourism excellence.
In response, Ms. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais expressed appreciation for Tanzania’s strong cooperation with UN Tourism and pledged continued collaboration in advancing tourism development initiatives across the country and the African continent.
Earlier, Dr. Kijaji participated in various sessions of the conference, which was officially opened by Zimbabwe’s First Lady, Auxillia Mnangagwa.
The sessions included a Ministers’ Tourism Dialogue, where leaders discussed strategies to enhance women’s empowerment and leadership in the tourism sector across Africa.
