In the Mauritanian city of Goundam, the Tourism Month edition 2026 celebrations have kicked off with a conference-debate at the Hôtel de ville. The event was presided over by Amadou Oumar Keïta, deputy prefect of Cercle, in the presence of local authorities, traditional leaders, and various stakeholders. The conference theme, aligned with the national theme, focused on "internal tourism as a vector of patriotism reinforcement."
As part of the celebrations, a visit to various historical, religious, and patrimonial sites in Goundam was organized for local authorities, technical services, and traditional leaders. The sites visited included the Mausolées du quartier Alphaou, the Saint Moumine d'Alphaou, the Grande Mosquée de Goundam, and the Case sacrée du boa de Sabaibangou, among others. This activity aimed to promote the city's cultural and tourist potential.
During the conference, the Prefect of Cercle, in his opening speech, presented the context and objectives of Tourism Month, highlighting the importance of internal tourism in promoting national unity and economic development. He emphasized that internal tourism should not be limited to leisure activities but also seen as a means of discovering one's country, understanding its history, and valuing its heritage.
Mahamane Alidji Cissé, First Deputy Mayor of Goundam, recalled the activities carried out before the conference, including visits to several tourist sites, and expressed his wish for the momentum to continue, making Goundam a well-known and valued cultural and tourist destination. The conference was attended by a large audience, including administrative authorities, mayors, technical service heads, and traditional leaders.
The Tourism Month celebrations in Goundam aim to create a framework for information, reflection, and exchange on the contribution of internal tourism to the knowledge of the national territory, the valorization of historical and cultural heritage, and the reinforcement of national sentiment. The events also seek to promote social cohesion, the transmission of collective memory, and local economic development.
According to local authorities, internal tourism can play a significant role in promoting national pride and unity, as well as contributing to the country's economic growth. The Tourism Month celebrations in Goundam are expected to contribute to the achievement of these objectives, while showcasing the city's rich cultural and tourist potential.
The successful organization of these events demonstrates the commitment of local authorities to promoting tourism and cultural heritage in Goundam. The city's authorities hope that these activities will have a lasting impact on the local community, while attracting visitors from across the country.
Key points
- The Tourism Month celebrations in Goundam focus on promoting internal tourism and national pride.
- Local authorities emphasize the importance of internal tourism in promoting national unity and economic development.
- The events aim to showcase Goundam's cultural and tourist potential, while contributing to the country's economic growth.