A collaborative effort between WIOMSA, the School of Wildlife Conservation at the African Leadership University, and the Ministry of Tourism Zanzibar, gathered 26 participants from Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, and Tanzania to discuss various aspects of nature-based tourism within the blue economy.
Officially opened on Monday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism Dr Aboud Jumbe, the week-long training has focused on highlighting the significance of nature-based tourism, its role in the blue economy, and its current status in the WIO region.
The workshop discussions have centred around creating a regional report on the state of nature-based tourism, developing a roadmap to unlock its potential, streamlining data collection, and establishing a regional community of practice. Additionally, participants had the opportunity to visit Jozani Forest and Msonge Farm for a firsthand experience of community benefit-sharing and sustainable agricultural practices in nature-based tourism practices in the WIO. Anticipated outcomes from the workshop include increased awareness of nature-based tourism in the blue economy, improved data collection for sustainable practices, and recognition of its importance to local economies.
