Realizing the full potential of Africa’s coastal tourism requires a shift in policies and legislative frameworks to create an environment conducive to investment and infrastructure development. Industry executives and policymakers emphasized the need for reforms to attract capital that would support essential infrastructure such as roads, electricity, clean water, and sanitation. These improvements would make coastal destinations more accessible and appealing to tourists while also fostering economic growth in the region.
A recent virtual forum organized by Africa’s Green Economy Summit in collaboration with ESI Africa brought together key players from the tourism sector, government, and finance to discuss investment strategies for the continent’s blue and green economies. The discussions underscored the urgency of creating a supportive regulatory environment to enhance Africa’s standing as a global coastal tourism destination.
According to Victor Shitakha, board chairman of the Kenya Coast Tourism Association, the value of Africa’s coastal tourism industry is expected to exceed 100 billion U.S. dollars by 2030, creating approximately 28 million jobs. However, to achieve this milestone, governments must prioritize conservation efforts, streamline visa application processes for international visitors, and modernize transportation networks. Given that 80 percent of Africa’s tourism activity is concentrated in coastal areas, there is a pressing need to balance growth with sustainability. Shitakha stressed that opening Africa’s airspace to more airlines through an open skies policy, conserving beaches, and engaging key stakeholders such as divers, tour guides, and artisans would enhance the sector’s appeal.
In 2024, Africa welcomed approximately 92 million tourists, representing only 6 percent of the 1.5 billion global travelers. This statistic highlights the continent’s untapped potential in the tourism sector. To attract more visitors, African nations must diversify their tourism offerings beyond beach attractions to include cultural, historical, and adventure-based experiences. Investing in community-driven tourism models can also help preserve Africa’s unique heritage while generating economic benefits for local populations.
The financial sector plays a crucial role in expanding the coastal tourism industry. Abel Sakhau, chief sustainability officer at Sanlam Group, emphasized the importance of fiscal incentives to attract both domestic and foreign investments. He noted that start-ups aligned with the tourism sector could thrive if provided with the necessary capital and regulatory support. Sustainable financing mechanisms, including green bonds and public-private partnerships, could further stimulate infrastructure development and job creation.
Sustainability remains a central concern in the discussion on coastal tourism growth. Judy Kepher-Gona, founder and executive director of Sustainable Travel and Tourism Africa, highlighted the need for investors to adopt environmentally responsible business practices. Prioritizing workforce development, investing in eco-friendly accommodations, and promoting local cultures and heritage would enhance the sector’s long-term resilience. Kepher-Gona also emphasized that empowering local communities to take an active role in tourism governance could help maintain high ethical and environmental standards in the industry.
As Africa seeks to unlock the full potential of its coastal tourism industry, collaboration between governments, investors, and local communities will be essential. Policy adjustments, infrastructure improvements, and sustainability-driven investments can position the continent as a premier coastal tourism destination while ensuring long-term economic and environmental benefits.
