The 39^th Annual Africa Travel Association (ATA) Congress  place in Kampala, Uganda last wek. The theme of this year’s Congress, which has attracted local, regional and international delegates, is Tourism is Everyone’s Business. The Congress was organised under the High Patronage of the President of Republic of Uganda, His Excellency, President Yoweri Museveni.

A key event of the Congress is the ATA awards ceremony recognising outstanding contribution to the tourism sector in Africa. In this year award, the NEPAD Agency has been honoured with the recognition of Dr. Ibrahim Assane Mayaki (Chief Executive Officer) and the NEPAD Agency for Leadership and commitment to building strong partnerships to support the development of the tourism sector in the continent. The Award was received on behalf of Dr. Mayaki and the NEPAD Agency by Mrs. Estherine Lisinge Fotabong (the Director of Programme Implementation and Coordination).

Receiving the award on behalf of the Dr. Mayaki and the Agency, Mrs. Fotabong commended the efforts and contributions of ATA in promoting and bringing visibility to Africa tourism, as well as providing a platform for stakeholder engagement. Mrs. Fotabong stressed that the continent is counting on the cooperation of the private sector, such as ATA, to sustain touristic activities in the continent, as well as create jobs, especially among the youths.

The occasion was graced by dignitaries including: the First Lady of Republic of Uganda Honourable Janet Museveni, Ambassador Amina Ali (the African Union Permanent Representative to USA) and HE. Scott Delisi (USA Ambassador to Uganda).