By The Arusha News Reporter
Arusha city is poised to become the epicentre of African tourism this September, as it hosts a landmark Tourism Exhibition alongside the Annual Global Forum of the Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa (APTA).
With more than 100 leading travel industry stakeholders expected to attend, including three of the world’s largest international operators, the event is shaping up to be one of the most significant gatherings on Africa’s tourism calendar this year. The presence of these influential players underscores the growing demand for African travel experiences in the United States market.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Tanzania,” said Mr Sirili Akko, Pro Bono Co-Chairman of the Organising Committee. “We are proud to welcome such a powerful convergence of tourism leaders from across Africa and the world. It’s not just about business—this is a celebration of Africa as a world-class tourism destination, embraced and promoted by US operators right here on African soil.”
Mr David DiGregorio, APTA Executive Board Member from the United States and a long-standing advocate for African tourism, also said: “This exhibition is a true gateway. US operators are eager to discover new products and forge deeper partnerships across Africa and there is no better place to do that than in Arusha.”
In addition to the exhibition and Global Forum sessions, American tour operators and travel advisors will embark on a familiarisation (FAM) trip to the breathtaking Tarangire National Park, offering them first-hand experience of one of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations.
The itinerary will also feature an exclusive Tanzanite experience, giving delegates a glimpse into the rare and valuable gemstone unique to Tanzania – an unforgettable cultural and commercial highlight.
The exhibition will showcase destinations, travel innovations and tourism products from across Africa. With participants expected from East, West, Central and Southern Africa, the event promises to foster robust all Africa collaboration and trade deals.
African operators are particularly excited about the opportunity to engage directly with US buyers. “We’ve been waiting for a platform like this,” said Ms Barawusu, a prominent Ghanaian operator. “Having so many US tour operators gathered in one place opens up incredible opportunities. I’m thrilled to present the richness of West Africa to such an influential market – this is a golden opportunity we simply cannot afford to miss.”
While this year’s event is exclusive to Tanzania, future editions of the APTA Global Forum and Exhibition are set to rotate among other African nations. This makes Arusha 2025 a truly historic milestone – the inaugural East African launch of what is set to become a premier annual tourism Expo on the continent.
