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Poverty Reduction through Tourism in Africa
More than 50 million people visit Africa yearly. That's about 5% of all international travel, but on World Tourism Day, these low figures do not reflect the vast role tourism plays in many African economies. One out of every 20 jobs in Africa is in the hotel, tourism and travel industry.
Worldwide, the sector accounts for more than 260 million jobs. That’s about one in twelve jobs, which together contribute to about 9% of global GDP. Tourism is increasingly recognized as a major source of economic growth, particularly in poor countries. The industry is currently growing at a rate of 7% in Africa. This number has the potential to be much higher, but developing tourism requires practical strategies for growth.
Tourism represents 33% of Least Developed Countries exports but a successful tourism sector relies on good safety and security, health and hygiene, infrastructure, education and training.
Supporting and investing in tourism benefits many, not just those earning a living wage from working in the sector. Rwanda has managed to turn its 200 mountain gorillas into a $200 million a year industry. Gorilla tourism has helped improve roads, schools and infrastructure in that specific region where the Gorillas live, as well as successfully conserving the gorilla habitat.
Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa
The non-profit organization Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA), supported by the ILO, promotes sustainable tourism development by raising awareness, conducting research and advocacy, and facilitating capacity building in the industry. It certifies tourism businesses that operate according to the principles of “Fair Trade” and responsible tourism. A special label qualifying businesses is awarded in recognition of their commitment to the principles of fair share, democracy, respect, reliability, transparency, sustainability and related criteria, including fair wages and working conditions, fair purchasing, fair operations, equitable distribution of benefits and respect for human rights, culture and environment. FTTSA supports local communities, economies and businesses that are managed in an ethical and socially and environmentally responsible manner.
Facts and figures
Despite occasional setbacks and structural changes due to new technologies, the industry remains a large source of employment, particularly in developing countries, where it grew rapidly in recent decades.
In 2012 the tourism global economy accounted for more than 260 million jobs, equivalent to about 8.7% of the overall number of jobs (direct and indirect) worldwide, or one in every 11 jobs.
Women represent a majority of the workforce in many countries and Youth employment is significant in the sector. Half of the HCT workforce is under 25 years old.
Tourist arrivals in LDCs (1998-2008) have tripled, with an average growth rate of 13%, and with tourism revenues increasing from 1 to 5.3 billion USD.
The industry is currently ranked first or second in the export earnings of 20 of the 48 least developed countries (LDCs) and is demonstrating steady growth in at least 10 others.
