The Minister of Tourism, Pengdwendé Gilbert Ouédraogo, representing the Prime Minister, officially opened the Forum of Tourism Actors of the AES on September 23, 2026, in Ouagadougou. This event is part of the 16th edition of the International Tourism and Hospitality Fair of Ouagadougou (SITHO). The forum brings together actors from the culture and tourism sectors of the AES member states. The meeting aims to discuss the development of the tourism sector within the confederal space.
The forum's theme, "Integrated Investment and Economic Sovereignty: Building a Competitive Sahelian Tourist Destination," sets the tone for discussions on enhancing the tourism sector. Professionals have been sharing insights on the resources and potential that AES countries can tap into. The valorization of the Niger River, shared by several AES countries, has been a key topic of discussion. Proposals have been made to strengthen cooperation among states and promote a more integrated and economically sovereign tourism sector.
Minister Ouédraogo emphasized the potential of the AES space for tourism development. He called for better networking of the heritage of the three countries, suggesting that combining their cultural and tourism riches could create a more attractive and competitive offer. He also stressed the need to preserve these resources for future generations. The minister highlighted the importance of professionalizing the sector, improving service quality, and investing in infrastructure, transportation, and financing mechanisms.
The minister urged for greater involvement from the private sector, universities, training centers, and local authorities in developing the tourism sector. He encouraged participants to formulate concrete proposals for public policies and tourism investment. Bassolma Bazié, President of the National Commission of the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) of Burkina Faso, welcomed the forum, emphasizing its importance for strengthening cooperation among the three states.
Bazié called for better valorization of the natural, cultural, and historical heritage of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. He believes that pooling their resources can contribute to the economic and social development of populations. According to him, tourism can serve as a lever for economic integration, promoting investment, entrepreneurship, and job creation, especially for young people.
Bazié stressed the need to strengthen the capacities of enterprises and promote local and regional investments. He argued that the sector's benefits should largely accrue to the economies and populations of the confederal space. The 16th edition of SITHO will run from September 22 to 27, 2026, at the Ouagadougou International Craft Fair (SIAO).
The forum provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss and shape the future of tourism in the AES region. It aims to harness the potential of the tourism sector to drive economic growth and development in the region. The event brings together various actors, including government officials, private sector representatives, and experts, to share knowledge and expertise.
Key points
- The forum focuses on integrated investment and economic sovereignty to build a competitive Sahelian tourist destination.
- The event aims to strengthen cooperation among AES countries and promote a more integrated and economically sovereign tourism sector.
- The forum seeks to harness the potential of the tourism sector to drive economic growth and development in the AES region.
