Sierra Leone and UN Tourism to Host Women in Tourism Regional Congress

The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of Sierra Leone, in partnership with UN Tourism, is set to host the Women in Tourism Regional Congress from October 29 to 31, 2024, in Freetown.

This landmark three-day event aims to reshape the tourism sector for African women by focusing on education, technological innovation, and better access to finance.

Women constitute 54% of the global tourism workforce, and in Africa, that figure rises to 70%. However, they often hold lower-paid, informal jobs with limited opportunities for advancement. Only 25% of decision-making positions in the industry are held by women, and this gender gap widens at higher leadership levels. These issues are exacerbated by limited access to resources like technology, education, and finance, as well as societal norms that hinder their professional growth.

The Congress, spearheaded by Sierra Leone's Hon. Minister Nabeela Farida Tunis and aligned with SDG 5 and the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa, seeks to empower women with practical tools, mentorship, and equitable opportunities. Its focus will be on fostering leadership, promoting gender-responsive policies, and advancing women's roles in the industry.

Key themes of the event will include education, mentorship, and technological innovation, with workshops offering training on leadership and industry-specific skills. Additionally, a technical workshop on finance access will provide insights on securing capital, developing business plans, and fostering investor relationships to support long-term success for women-led businesses.

The Congress will culminate in a cultural celebration, showcasing Freetown’s vibrant heritage through local craft displays and an open-air carnival, underscoring the importance of cultural industries in empowering women and enriching tourism in Sierra Leone.