Participation in the 5th Cameroon International Tourism Fair 2026 has strengthened the resolve of the Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA) to deepen intra-African tourism ties, with the union returning home optimistic about new opportunities and partnerships forged during the event in Limbe.
According to TOUGHA President Yvonne Donkor, the decision to attend the fair was strategic, particularly to bridge the gap between West and Central Africa where travel interactions remain relatively limited. She described the experience as impactful, noting that it provided a strong platform to connect with new markets and attract tourism traffic to Ghana.
A key highlight of the trip, she explained, was the quality of networking achieved. Engagements with destination management companies and other industry stakeholders created avenues for long-term collaboration, with the potential to generate tourism flows not only into Ghana but across multiple African destinations.
The international fair, held from March 19 to 21, brought together over 40 global participants alongside a large number of local exhibitors. Activities ranged from exhibitions and high-level discussions to cultural showcases and business networking sessions, all focused on enhancing tourism cooperation across the continent and beyond.
Beyond formal engagements, TOUGHA’s delegation explored several of Cameroon’s top attractions as part of curated post-tour activities. These included Buea, the historic Bimbia Slave Village, Ekom-Nkam Waterfall, Lobe Waterfall and the economic hub of Douala.
Donkor noted that these experiences were not just recreational but strategic, offering insights into how African destinations can be better packaged and promoted, especially to diaspora audiences already interested in the continent.
She emphasised that TOUGHA approached the fair with clear intent, focusing on building partnerships that extend beyond national borders. The connections made, she said, span several countries and are expected to unlock broader global opportunities for Ghana’s tourism sector.
She added that the union has no regrets about participating, stressing that the relationships established during the event are expected to translate into tangible results in the near future.
Overall, TOUGHA’s presence at CITF 2026 highlights its growing commitment to strengthening regional tourism collaboration and diaspora engagement. With fresh insights and strategic alliances secured, the union is positioning Ghana as a key hub in Africa’s evolving tourism landscape.
By: Andrews Kwesi Yeboah