OUAGADOUGOU — The 13th edition of the Ouagadougou International Tourism and Hospitality Exhibition (SITHO) and the Ouagadougou International Tourism, Hotel and Catering Showcase (VITHRO), collectively known as SITHO-VITHRO, is held from October 26 to 29, 2023. This year’s theme is “Promotion of internal tourism, factor of resilience,” and features Niger as the guest country of honor.
According to a new release by Burkina Information Agency, the Nigerien delegation is led by the Minister of Tourism and Crafts, Guichen Agaichata, and comprises 36 members. Agaichata stated that the theme aligns well with both Burkina Faso and Niger’s objectives to make tourism a key driver of socio-economic development. “This is entirely possible because of the immense resources that abound in our space and the political will that drives our highest authorities,” she added.
In a period marked by a crisis in international tourism, Agaichata stressed that the promotion of domestic tourism serves as a vital alternative for the development of the tourism sector in Africa. Meeting the head of Niger’s pavilion, Alkhousseini Ag Chekhou, CEO of Nomade crafts and culture of Niger, revealed that he exhibits various artisanal works. These include furniture, interior decorations, jewelry, desks, supports, and beds, all made from silver or leather.
Chekhou was pleased with his participation and endorsed showcasing Africa’s expertise and values like hospitality, unity, cohesion, and peace. “There is a hotelier this morning who ordered a large quantity of works that we brought, such as desks, scenery supports, beds, etc.,” he mentioned.
The head of the Niger pavilion also called for a policy change to require that 40 to 60% of the decor in hotels and public places be sourced from local artisans. He targeted his message towards young people, urging them to appreciate their ethnic heritage and virtues of peace and truth.
Niger’s tourism focuses on three main areas: Saharan tourism in the North, river tourism in the Niger River valley, and cultural tourism predominantly in the Center and East of Niger. These attractions not only bring in foreign currency but also provide employment opportunities for a range of professionals, including artisans, guides, drivers, and innkeepers.
Besides contributing to economic development, tourism fosters cultural exchange and attracts donors, including NGOs and associations. Amid concerns over terrorism and sovereignty in the Sahel, Burkina Faso and Niger have enhanced their military, economic, and socio-cultural cooperation.