Chad's Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Handicrafts, Abakar Rozzi Téguil, has called for a digital transformation of the country's tourism sector. On the occasion of World Tourism Day, celebrated on September 27, 2026, Téguil emphasized the importance of using digital tools and artificial intelligence to promote Chad's tourism industry. This year's theme, "Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Reimagine Tourism," highlights the role of technology in shaping the sector.
According to Téguil, the tourism experience now begins long before a visitor arrives, through online research, images, videos, and digital recommendations. He sees digital technology as a historic opportunity to increase Chad's visibility and showcase its natural and cultural wealth. The country boasts significant tourist attractions, including the Ennedi massif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Zakouma National Park, the Ounianga lakes, Lake Chad, and a diverse array of cultures, traditions, and artistic expressions.
Chad's tourism ambitions are outlined in the government's "Tchad Connexion 2030" national development plan, which aims to diversify the economy. The plan includes the "Chantier 12" project, focused on promoting Chad's cultural and tourist attractions. The government also intends to strengthen the "Tchad Nouvelle Destination" brand, modernize tourist communication tools, and support the digitalization of sector professionals.
To improve the tourist experience, the government plans to enhance access to information, facilitate visitor experiences, and train young people in new tourism and digital technology-related jobs. Another measure announced is the exemption of African nationals from visa requirements, effective January 1, 2027. This decision aims to boost tourism, handicrafts, and cultural industries by making it easier for visitors to enter the country.
The Ministry of Tourism is also working to structure major tourist destinations, including Zakouma and Ennedi, through the development of tourist plans. These plans will help organize destinations, attract investment, develop tourist activities, and build national competencies. Téguil emphasized the importance of involving local populations in the benefits of tourism development, stating that the sector's growth should improve the lives of citizens.
While digital technology and artificial intelligence offer new possibilities for promoting tourist destinations, Téguil stressed that they cannot replace the human aspect of tourism. The minister highlighted the need for a balance between technology and the warm hospitality that visitors expect from Chad's tourism sector. By leveraging digital tools and artificial intelligence, Chad aims to increase its visibility and attract more tourists to its unique cultural and natural attractions.
The government's efforts to boost tourism are expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy and local communities. By developing the tourism sector, Chad hopes to create jobs, generate revenue, and promote cultural exchange. As the country continues to invest in digital technology and infrastructure, it is poised to become a more attractive destination for tourists and investors alike.
Key points
- Chad's government is using digital technology and artificial intelligence to promote its tourism sector and showcase its natural and cultural riches.
- The country aims to increase its visibility and attract more tourists through the "Tchad Connexion 2030" national development plan.
- African nationals will be exempt from visa requirements, effective January 1, 2027, to boost tourism and economic growth.
