Director General of the Gambia Tourism Board, Ida Jeng Njie, has called on Africans to promote the continent's destinations, starting with Gambia. In an interview with This Day, Njie emphasized the importance of showcasing Gambia's unique selling points, including its culture, nature, and people. She highlighted the country's stunning beaches, eco-resorts, and culinary delights as major attractions. According to Njie, Gambia's goal is to increase tourist numbers, which would lead to economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Njie explained that the Gambia Tourism Board is mandated to market and promote Gambia as a tourist destination to its target markets and beyond. She expressed enthusiasm about engaging with Nigerian tourism stakeholders, emphasizing that Gambia has something to offer for everyone. Whether it's exploring the country's natural beauty, learning about its culture, or experiencing its vibrant atmosphere, Njie invited Nigerians and other Africans to visit Gambia. By doing so, she believes that Gambia can increase its tourist numbers and ultimately boost its economy.
The Gambia Tourism Board has identified Nigerians as a key target market, given their reputation as high spenders and frequent travelers. Njie noted that Gambia and Nigeria have strong bonding ties, making it an ideal partnership. By targeting Nigerians, the board aims to show other African countries and the world that promoting intra-African tourism is possible. According to Njie, Gambians understand what it takes to make Nigerians enjoy their visit, and the country is well-equipped to cater to their needs.
Gambia's unique selling point, according to Njie, is its people. She emphasized that when a country's people are its strength, it can achieve great things. From exploring the country's stunning coastline, known as the "smiling coast," to experiencing its vibrant culture, Njie believes that Gambia has something for everyone. The country's eco-resorts, culinary delights, and state-of-the-art conference center make it an attractive destination for leisure and business travelers alike.
Njie highlighted Gambia's natural attractions, including its beautiful beaches, river, and wildlife. She invited visitors to explore the country's flora and fauna, go on a retreat, or hold business meetings and conferences. With its world-class facilities and stunning natural beauty, Gambia is well-positioned to become a top tourist destination in Africa. According to Njie, the country's goal is to showcase its unique attractions and make visitors feel welcome.
The Gambia Tourism Board's efforts to promote Gambia as a tourist destination are part of a broader strategy to boost the country's economy. By increasing tourist numbers, Njie believes that Gambia can create jobs, reduce poverty, and stimulate economic growth. She emphasized that the board is committed to making Gambia a top destination in Africa, and that the country's unique attractions and business opportunities make it an attractive choice for visitors.
In conclusion, Ida Jeng Njie's call to Africans to promote Gambia as a tourist destination is part of a broader effort to boost intra-African tourism. With its unique attractions, business opportunities, and stunning natural beauty, Gambia is well-positioned to become a top destination in Africa. As the country continues to promote itself to Nigerians and other Africans, it remains to be seen how successful its efforts will be in increasing tourist numbers and stimulating economic growth.
Key points
- Gambia targets Nigerians as a key market due to their high spending habits and frequent travel.
- The country's unique selling points include its culture, nature, and people.
- Gambia aims to increase tourist numbers to boost its economy and create jobs.
