The organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market,Ambassador, Ikechi Uko has stated that the reason for the event success is the relationships, partnerships he has built over the years and commitment to promote Africa tourism and culture.
This is just as he disclosed that Akwaaba will be expanded next year, by bringing together three events in Nigeria under one platform.
He made this known while delivering his opening remarks at the well attended 20,th edition of the market at the prestigious Eko Hotel in Lagos , Nigeria.
He also said that though Akwaaba participation has increased , he however said that in its 20 years of existence,there were challenges but that the unwavering support from organisations and countries inspired him to create a platform that would elevate African tourism on the global stage.
Going memory lane about the growth of the event, Uko said that he started the event in 2005 with just two participating countries, Ghana and São Tomé and Príncipe but that today Akwaaba has grown into a premier travel and tourism expo with over 20 countries participating..
In his words, “We have been supported by good people and the support has brought us to were we are today despite the challenges we faced when it started.”
The event, the organiser said has had a significant impact on the travel and tourism industry in West Africa, with partnerships established with countries such as Ghana, the Gambia, and some states in Nigeria.
Speaking further on the partnerships the market built in the last 20 years, Uko said, “If we are celebrating 20 years, it’s 20 years with the Gambia, it’s 20 years with Ghana, it’s 20 years with local states, it’s 20 years with Cross River, and it’s 20 years with Eko Hotel and to my partners in the media, it’s 20 years with them”.
He commended participants for their loyalty and commitment to the core values of the event.
Participants at this year’s event, who have been pillars of support to the Akwaaba Travel Market commended Uko for his dedication and commitment to move the market to an enviable height and also promoting the tourism potential of West Africa in particular and Africa in general to the world despite the challenges it encountered over the years
Akwaaba, the participants noted has Played very important roles in the last 20 years of its existence providing business opportunities, promoting African cultures,showcasing tourism potential, fostering industry relationships, and positioning Africa as a key player in the global tourism.
They advised participants to use the Akwaaba platform to build relationships, partnerships and network with one another, adding the market is not just for tourism and culture alone.
Meanwhile, over 60 exhibitors from various African countries are participating in this year’s event as the venue was filled to the bream .
Three notable shows that further spiced the Akwaaba Travel Market was the Miss Tourism peagant with beautiful girls from 10 African countries contesting for honours
The second one is the Calabar Carnival dancers that dazzled participants with their well- rehearsed and calculated dance steps which the participants to conclude that they got the value for the time.
The event was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Ghanaian Chief and tourism expert, Chief Okatachi Nana I, accompanied by other esteemed dignitaries and Ambassador Uko himself.
This moment marked the beginning of what would be a day filled with cultural pride and culinary delight.
The third was the much awaited and talked about JollofRiceWar, where nine Nigerian chefs showcased their culinary talents presenting which includes Nigeria party jollof, coconut jollof, zobo-infused rice, and barbecue
About The Author
