ARUSHA : ARUSHA, a Tanzania’s vibrant safari capital, will host a high-profile gathering of the world’s dignitaries, including celebrities and industry experts, for the World Tourism Day and the premiere East African indoors travel and tourism fair in September.
Among the distinguished attendees will be the renowned American celebrity Michael Ruggiero, who is set to play a pivotal role in these events, according to organisers.
“Michael Ruggiero, known for his impactful work in media and tourism, will be attending the conference as part of his extensive mission to create a groundbreaking documentary for the Tanzania tourism industry” said Director of Rethinking Tourism Africa (RTA), Ms Edna Foya.
His participation marks a vital step in his ongoing efforts to boost global awareness and appreciation of Tanzanian tourism.
The documentary, once completed, is slated to be aired on major television networks in the USA, promising a significant outreach.
Ruggiero and his partner Haley Jackson are currently in the pre-production phase of a documentary tentatively titled ‘Wings Over Tanzania.’
This ambitious project is inspired by the historic flying safaris conducted by Osa and Martin Johnson between 1929 and 1930.
These pioneering expeditions hold a legendary status in the annals of adventure and exploration, and Ruggiero aims to bring this remarkable story to life, highlighting the natural beauty and adventurous spirit of Tanzania.
“Wings Over Tanzania is expected to be a game-changer for Tanzanian tourism” Mr Ruggiero said.
Experts predict that the documentary’s worldwide exposure could attract an additional three to five million new visitors to Tanzania over the next five years.
This influx of tourists would provide a tremendous boost to the country’s economy and solidify Tanzania’s status as a top travel destination in the world.
“The documentary aims to capture the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage of Tanzania, appealing to adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike,” he explained.
By revisiting the routes and experiences of Osa and Martin Johnson’s flying safaris, Ruggiero intends to draw parallels between the past and present, showcasing Tanzania’s enduring allure.
Mr Ruggiero’s participation in the World Tourism Day commemoration and the East African travel fair signifies a promising collaboration between media, tourism, and global outreach.
His work will not only offer a visual feast for audiences but also serve as a catalyst for sustainable tourism growth in Tanzania.
“As preparations continue, the anticipation builds for the synergy of history, adventure, and modern storytelling that ‘Wings Over Tanzania’ is set to deliver,” he noted.
With Ruggiero’s expertise and enthusiasm, the world can look forward to a renewed interest in Tanzanian tourism and the beauty of its natural wonders.
Distinguished global speakers of the World Tourism Day commemoration under the theme of ‘Tourism and Peace’ would be Mr. Marcel Leijzer, Technical Cooperation Manager at the UN-Tourism previously UNWTO and Ms. Janine Wencke from Mascountor in South Africa.
The grand gatherings, attracting hundreds of influential figures from the global tourism arena, will unfold from September 25th to 27th, 2024, at the exquisite Gran Melia Hotel nestled in the heart of Arusha city.
Positioned as a distinguished tourism conference and indoor tourism and travel fair in the East African region, the event is orchestrated by the esteemed Rethinking Tourism Africa (RTA) organization in partnership with the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA).
Ebullient organizers are optimistic that this year’s event of delegates and exhibitors will surpass the impressive count of 450 from last year, buoyed by the resurgence of the international tourism market after enduring three challenging years exacerbated by the unforeseen impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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“We anticipate the participation of nearly 600 delegates and exhibitors in this year’s conference and fair, accompanied by a throng of media representatives and myriad regional and international visitors,” Ms Foya.
She further emphasized, “For entrepreneurs, this presents an unparalleled business opportunity to engage with tourism business owners, managing directors, general managers, academicians, sales promotion personnel, front office personnel, and key decision-makers in the tourism industry, all under one roof.”
With just over two months remaining, anticipation and excitement are mounting across the world for this eagerly anticipated event, deemed by some as ‘the most significant indoor conference and show ever’.
“I am eagerly looking forward to participating in the fourth edition of the gathering and fair in Arusha, Tanzania. This is a seamless indoor platform where one can engage with all stakeholders in the tourism industry, all in one place,” expressed Mr Mikael Morlander, the owner of a travel platform based in Copenhagen.
