Nyalandu calls for teamwork to boost tourism in East Africa

Tanzania Natural Resources and Tourism minister, Lazaro Nyalandu

Natural Resources and Tourism minister, Lazaro Nyalandu has urged East African Community partner states to honour timeline agreed upon in the just concluded meeting on tourism and wildlife sector.
He made the remarks here when addressing the just-concluded meeting of Ministers/Cabinet Secretaries responsible for Tourism, Wildlife Management, and EAC affairs of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda to resolve their ongoing differences in tourism and wildlife management.

The meet which was organized by the EA trading bloc was held to discuss among others, Partner States denying entry of tourist vehicles registered in other Partner States, harassment of driver guides at border crossings, disparities in fees charged, cross border cooperation in wildlife law enforcement and cooperation and support in addressing multi-lateral environment agreements.
Nyalandu also encouraged Partner States to work jointly to implement the decisions, commending the three neighboring states for working with Tanzania in resolving all challenges facing the important sectors.
“I am sure if these challenges are resolved, Partner States will improve the standard of living for people in the region,” the Tanzanian official said.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism who is also a Chairperson of EAC Council of Ministers, Phyllis Kandie also commended the readiness of the three Partner States to meet and discuss the challenges in the tourism sector. She reiterated the commitment of Kenya towards EAC integration agenda.

Uganda Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Egunyu Akiror Agnes expressed gratitude that the meeting was finally considering issues that have been outstanding in the sector since 2010. She also reiterated Uganda’s commitment in supporting the integration agenda.
Deputy Secretary General in charge of Productive and Social Sector, Jesca Eriyo stated: “As three founding Partner States of EAC, we share a rich history that should encourage us rather than hinder our progress towards the integration.”
During the meeting ministers urged Partner States to sensitize law enforcement officials and the public on appropriate conduct when interacting so as to reduce incidences that may affect operations of the tourism sector. 

They also urged Partner States to build capacity for tour operators to appreciate the importance of security while operating in the region to reduce misunderstandings between the two sectors. 

They also urged Partner States to engage relevant ministries to work out modalities to develop frameworks that will ensure smooth movement of citizens of EAC Partner States across borders and within is improved to enhance intra-regional tourism.  

SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN