By Fatima Oluwakemi Saka
In commomeration of 2023 World Tourism Day, the World Tourism Organization, a UN specialized Agency has emphasized on the important of tourism as a pillar of the global economies and sustainable growth, saying It plays a central role in our societies and in our individual lives.
Secretary-General of UNWTO Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, made this assertioned, through their website as the whole world marks this anuanlly event.
He added that tourism offers solutions to some of our biggest challenges including the climate emergency and the urgent need to shift to more sustainable economies. “The power of tourism is enormous. But it is not a force that can be taken for granted.”
Revolving around the theme: “Tourism and Green Investments”.
This further highlighted the need for more and better-targeted investments for people, for planet and for prosperity.
However, UNWTO identified investments as one of the key priorities for tourism’s recovery and future growth and development. “Now is the time for new and innovative solutions, not just traditional investments that promote and underpin economic growth and productivity.”
The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres also reiterated that Tourism is a powerful force for progress and mutual understanding.
“But in order to deliver its full benefits, this force must be protected and nurtured. Today, the climate emergency is threatening many travel destinations and the very survival of communities and economies that depend on tourism. And many developing countries that are severely affected by a changing climate are also facing a growing investment deficit and a cost-of-living crisis.”
This further highlighted the call to action of the international community, governments, multilateral financial institutions, development partners and private sector investors to unite around a new tourism investment strategy.