Zimpapers Logo

“Mosi oa Tunya” . . . One of the Seven Wonders of the World

The number of international tourist arrivals increased by four percent to 538 million in the first half of 2015, the latest United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) global tourism barometer says.

Destinations worldwide received 21 million more international tourists between January and June 2015, compared to the same period of 2014.

The barometer shows that Europe, Asia and the Pacific and the Middle East all recorded five percent growth in international arrivals while the Americas registered a four percent increase.

“In spite of this overall growth, results by destination are rather mixed. Safety and security remain a global concern while the economic scenario is comparatively more volatile with the recovery of advanced economies contrasting with the slowdown of emerging economies,” said the UNWTO.

“Tourism demand has also been impacted by lower oil prices and currency fluctuations.”

The barometer shows that Africa recorded a six percent decline in the number of international tourists, with a decline of 10 percent in arrivals to North Africa and four percent in sub-Saharan Africa.

“Alongside the impacts of the terrorist attacks, African destinations have been impacted by the aftermath of the Ebola outbreak in a few West African countries and the slower growth of regional economies depending on the export of oil and other commodities.”

Commenting on the results, UNWTO secretary-general Taleb Rifai said despite increased volatility, tourism continued to consolidate the positive performance it has had over the last five years.

“As UNWTO prepares to meet in Medellin, Colombia, for its 21st General Assembly, this is the appropriate moment to call for a stronger support to tourism as the sector has the potential to deliver on some of the most pressing challenges of our time, namely job creation, economic growth and social inclusion,” he added.

According to the UNWTO forecast issued at the beginning of 2015, international tourist arrivals are expected to increase by three to four percent worldwide for the whole year, in line with the long-term forecast of an average growth of 3. 8 percent a year set for the period 2010 to 2020.

Last year, international tourist arrivals reached 1,138 billion up from 2013 arrivals of 1,087 billion. — New Ziana.