This archive report was first published on 14 June 2020.
As the African tourism sector struggles to recover from the devastating effects of Covid-19, a Kenyan professor has been appointed to the African Tourism Board to help drive innovation and growth.
Professor Masibo Lumala, a visiting professor at Purdue University in the US and a senior lecturer at Moi University, has been appointed to the board's Technology, Innovation, Free Movement and Facilitation Committee.
With his vast experience and tourism knowledge, Professor Lumala will play a key role in developing strategies for the board, particularly in the areas of tourism technology and innovation in Africa.
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), international travel generated $38 billion for Africa in 2020, but the sector is now facing significant challenges due to the pandemic.
With the industry staring at two million direct and indirect job losses, Professor Lumala's appointment is seen as a positive step towards recovery.
As the African Tourism Board works to promote intra-African tourism and visits from travellers outside the continent, Professor Lumala will also be involved in research and sensitisation of tourism stakeholders.
It remains to be seen when most African countries will fully open up their borders to travel and tourism, but with Professor Lumala on board, the industry is hopeful that it can bounce back to its pre-pandemic status.
