Women in Tourism Regional Congress: “Beyond Empowerment to Education, Innovation and Finance Access”

Africa
29 Oct 24

Freetown, Sierra Leone | 29-31 October 2024

Women represent a significant portion of the tourism workforce, accounting for 54% globally and 70% in Africa. Yet they remain concentrated in lower-skilled, lower-paid, and often informal positions, underscoring the urgent need to address systemic barriers and fully harness their potential. To achieve meaningful and systemic change for sustainable development and to advance SDG 5 on Gender equality, the tourism sector must move beyond empowerment efforts to removing structural barriers and providing multi-faceted support for women.

In light of the above, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of the Republic of Sierra Leone will host a three-day Women in Tourism Regional Congress in Freetown, Sierra Leone, from 29 to 31 October 2024, in collaboration with UN Tourism. This event aims to advance beyond empowerment by equipping women in tourism with requisite access and resources, actionable insights, and equitable opportunities. Key priorities include enhancing mentorship, educational, and training initiatives, fostering technological innovation, and improving access to financial resources to facilitate women´s advancement into positions of leadership and influence.