The 20th AKWAABA Africa Travel and Tourism Market opened in Lagos with over 15 countries and 29 exhibitors in attendance. The event fosters African unity through tourism.

The 20th edition of the AKWAABA Africa Travel and Tourism Market kicked off in Lagos, bringing together over 15 countries and 29 exhibitors.

Nations such as Gambia, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, and Mauritius participated in this year’s event, which serves as a platform for fostering unity and collaboration within Africa through tourism.

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Ghanaian traditional ruler, David Nana Anim, who declared the event open, praised the organiser, Mr Ikechi Uko, for sustaining the travel expo for 20 years.

He highlighted the importance of unity among Africans, urging attendees to seize the networking opportunities the platform provides.

“Tourism should be the key driver of the economy all over the world,” Anim said, encouraging collaboration for the growth of the industry.

Mr Ikechi Uko, the organiser, shared plans for future editions of AKWAABA, revealing they will be held alongside other tourism events such as Naija Seven Wonder, Chinet Aviation Expo, and Bantaba Expo.

He explained that this decision reflects Nigeria’s increasing role in global tourism. Uko expressed gratitude to those who have supported AKWAABA over the years and reiterated the importance of Africans exploring travel within the continent.

Delegates, including Agatha Iyok from Cameroon, praised the expo for its ability to inspire and provide professional expertise.

Iyok hopes to launch a similar event in Cameroon, aiming to replicate AKWAABA’s success. Nigerian tourism professionals also commended Uko for elevating the nation’s tourism brand and for promoting collaboration and business growth in the industry.

The event also featured a lively Jollof Rice war between nine chefs, judged by tourism queens from across Africa, with Chef Niychas emerging as the winner.

The 2024 edition of AKWAABA, which began on September 22, will conclude on September 24, offering further opportunities for networking and business expansion.