The UNWTO has strengthened its collaboration with the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) with the aim of improving connectivity and advancing seamless travel throughout the region.

The new Memorandum of Understanding, signed between UNWTO and AFCAC last month, reflects the importance of boosting co-operation between tourism and aviation to create jobs and drive inclusive growth in Africa, according to a statement issued by the global body.

The agreement is based on shared initiatives, including the promotion of sustainable tourism and the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) – see the infographic below.

UNWTO has actively participated in AFCAC's recent events, particularly the SAATM Pilot Implementation Project aiming to accelerate Africa's interconnectivity by 2025.

“Acknowledging the significance of travel facilitation, UNWTO has also commended countries, including Benin, The Gambia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Seychelles, for offering free visas to African tourists, aligning with the shared vision of increased connectivity,” reads the statement.