DAKAR-

The President of the Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC World), Amb. Dine Bouraima, has urged African governments, businesses and investors to embrace tourism as a strategic driver of economic growth, investment and continental integration.

Speaking on 11 July 2026 at the ECO FINANCE Gala of the 100 Most Dynamic Companies in Africa, held at the King Fahd Palace Hotel, Amb. Bouraima said Africa’s future prosperity depends on harnessing tourism to unlock broader economic opportunities.

Addressing an audience of ministers, captains of industry, business executives and development stakeholders, the AITEC World President congratulated Djibril Barry, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ecofinances Enterprises, for establishing one of Africa’s leading platforms for recognising entrepreneurial excellence.

“For more than twenty years, he has transformed this Gala into one of Africa’s most prestigious platforms celebrating dynamic businesses. Africa thanks him for this remarkable contribution,” Bouraima said.
Highlighting tourism’s global economic significance, he noted that according to UN Tourism and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the sector contributes nearly 10 percent of global GDP and supports one in every ten jobs worldwide. However, despite Africa’s rich natural, cultural and human resources, the continent attracts only about five percent of international tourist arrivals.
He described this disparity as an opportunity rather than a setback.

“Tourism should not simply be viewed as leisure. It must become a powerful engine of sustainable economic development,” he stated.
Bouraima explained that AITEC World was established to bridge tourism, trade, investment, economic development and international cooperation under one continental vision.
“Our motto remains: Linking Africa to the World and the World to Africa,” he affirmed.

He recalled AITEC World’s international launch in Abuja in August 2025 and its subsequent inauguration at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa in November 2025, noting that the organisation has continued to expand its network of governments, institutions, investors and private-sector partners across Africa and beyond.
The AITEC World President also reiterated the organisation’s commitment to promoting visa-free travel and seamless connectivity across Africa. He commended countries including Benin, Seychelles, Rwanda, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya and Togo for taking significant steps towards easing movement for African citizens.
According to him, AITEC World’s long-term objective is to see at least 27 African countries implement visa-free travel for Africans by 2035.
“When Africans move more freely, businesses invest more, trade expands, jobs are created and Africa becomes more prosperous,” he said.

Bouraima further highlighted the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between AITEC World and Ecofinances Enterprises, describing it as a strategic partnership aimed at positioning the private sector at the centre of Africa’s economic transformation.

He also extended an invitation to governments, business leaders, investors and development institutions to participate in the third launch of AITEC World slated for London between 2-4 November, 2026 and the Second Africa Tourism Dialogue (ATD 2026) scheduled for 12–14 November 2026 in Addis Ababa.
The forum, he said, will bring together policymakers, investors, tourism leaders and development partners to accelerate investment, strengthen intra-African trade and promote tourism as a catalyst for sustainable economic development.

Concluding his address, Amb. Bouraima stressed that Africa’s destiny rests in the hands of Africans. “Africa’s future will not depend on what the world does for us. It will depend on what we decide to build together.”
He added that, “When tourism grows, investment follows. When investment grows, businesses flourish. And when businesses flourish, Africa prospers.”

The AITEC World President congratulated the 100 companies honoured during the gala, describing them as businesses that are not only achieving commercial success but also contributing significantly to Africa’s long-term prosperity. He reaffirmed AITEC World’s commitment to working with the private sector to advance sustainable economic development across the continent.

The Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC World) has recorded another significant milestone in its drive to strengthen tourism collaboration across Africa, as its National Representative for Seychelles, Mr. Mervin Cedras, and Deputy National Representative, Mr. Christopher Lespoir, officially presented their mandate and credentials to the Principal Secretary of the Seychelles Ministry of Tourism, Mrs. Sherin Francis, in Victoria, Friday.

The official presentation marks the formal commencement of AITEC World’s activities in Seychelles and reinforces the organisation’s commitment to promoting the island nation as one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations on the global stage.

During the meeting, both parties explored opportunities for collaboration aimed at advancing sustainable tourism development, strengthening destination marketing, encouraging investment, and increasing international visibility for Seychelles through AITEC World’s growing continental and global network.

Mr. Cedras reaffirmed AITEC World’s vision of “Linking Africa to the World and the World to Africa,” noting that Seychelles occupies a strategic position in Africa’s tourism landscape due to its world-renowned natural beauty, conservation achievements, and premium tourism offerings.

He stated that AITEC World is committed to working closely with the Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and other stakeholders to showcase the country’s unique tourism assets while contributing to broader African tourism integration and economic growth.

The presentation of credentials also signals the beginning of a stronger partnership between AITEC World and the Government of Seychelles, with plans to support initiatives that promote seamless tourism cooperation, knowledge exchange, investment opportunities, and participation in major continental tourism events.

AITEC World President, Amb. Dine Bouraima, welcomed the development, describing it as another important step in expanding the organisation’s presence across Africa. He expressed confidence in the leadership of Mr. Cedras and Mr. Lespoir to advance AITEC World’s mission in Seychelles and strengthen the country’s engagement with the wider African tourism community.

As AITEC World continues to establish national representations across the continent, the Seychelles office is expected to play a vital role in fostering partnerships that will enhance tourism, cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and Africa’s collective visibility in the global tourism marketplace.

Delivering his speech as an international Special Guest of Honour at the 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of NATOP and Conference, held on 9 July 2026 at the Sen. Oluremi Tinubu Hall, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria, Amb. Bouraima congratulated the President of NATOP, Hajia Bolaji Mustapha, her executive council and the entire membership for a decade of dedicated service to the advancement of tourism in Nigeria.

He described NATOP’s 10-year milestone as a testament to resilience, visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the growth of the tourism sector.

AITEC World President, Amb. Dine Bouraima (3rd-R) joining other dignitaries to cut the 10th anniversary cake during the event

The AITEC World President particularly applauded Hajia Mustapha and her team for the establishment of the association’s new national secretariat in Lagos, describing it as a landmark achievement that strengthens the institutional capacity and credibility of NATOP as one of Africa’s foremost professional tourism associations.

Highlighting AITEC World’s continental vision, Amb. Bouraima explained that the organisation was established to connect Africa to the world and the world to Africa through tourism, trade, investment and economic cooperation.

He recalled the successful inaugural launch of AITEC World in Abuja on 14 August 2025, followed by its second global launch in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and announced preparations for the organisation’s third global launch scheduled for 2 November 2026 in London, which will bring together tourism stakeholders and investors from around the world.

He also invited NATOP and all tourism stakeholders to participate in the 2nd Africa Tourism Dialogue, scheduled to hold in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 12–14 November 2026, at Africa Celebrates 20226, within African Union Headquarters and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa where policymakers, investors, tourism professionals and development partners will discuss practical strategies for unlocking Africa’s tourism potential through seamless travel, investment, stronger partnerships and sustainable economic development.

A major highlight of his address was AITEC World’s formal expression of interest in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NATOP. According to Amb. Bouraima, the proposed partnership will promote tourism development, facilitate investment opportunities, strengthen professional capacity, encourage knowledge exchange and enhance Africa’s competitiveness within the global tourism economy.

He stressed that Africa’s tourism future depends on stronger collaboration among governments, the private sector, development institutions and industry associations, while calling for sustained advocacy for visa facilitation, seamless air connectivity, infrastructure development, destination marketing, digital innovation and sustainable tourism practices.

The AITEC World delegation to the AGM was led by President Amb. Dine Bouraima, including Amb. Kazeem Balogun, Vice President of AITEC World in charge of Communications and International Relations; Dr. Anthony Elumelu, National Representative of AITEC World-Nigeria; Dr. Olanma Ojukwu, National Representative of AITEC World-Benin Republic; and Amb. Ayo Omotosho, National Publicity Director of AITEC World-Nigeria.

The event attracted several distinguished personalities from Nigeria’s tourism and aviation sectors, including Dr. Aare Abisoye Fagade, Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR); Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace; Chief Nkereuwem Onung, Chairman of NATOP’s Board of Trustees and Special Advisor to AITEC World; Amb. Ikechi Uko, also BOT Member and Convener of Akwaaba Africa Travel Market alongside senior government officials, tourism practitioners, members of the diplomatic corps, development partners and industry stakeholders.

The 10th AGM provided another opportunity for stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for strengthening Nigeria’s tourism industry while fostering regional and international cooperation for sustainable growth.

About AITEC World

The Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC World) is a global tourism and economic development organisation dedicated to connecting Africa with the rest of the world through tourism, trade, investment, culture and strategic partnerships.

Founded with the vision of promoting inclusive economic growth and continental integration, AITEC World works closely with governments, international organisations, private sector institutions and development partners to advance tourism development, investment promotion, policy advocacy, destination marketing and capacity building across Africa.

The organisation is also the convener of the Africa Tourism Dialogue (ATD), a premier continental platform that brings together policymakers, investors, tourism professionals and global stakeholders to develop innovative solutions for Africa’s tourism and economic transformation. Through its growing international network, AITEC World continues to champion visa facilitation, seamless air connectivity, sustainable tourism, youth empowerment and stronger global partnerships aimed at positioning Africa as one of the world’s leading tourism and investment destinations.

The President of the Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC World), Amb. Dine Bouraima, will today, 9 July 2026, join leading stakeholders in Nigeria’s tourism industry at the 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference of the National Association of Tour Operators of Nigeria (NATOP).

The landmark gathering will take place at the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Hall, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria, from 10:00 a.m., and is expected to bring together government officials, tourism professionals, destination managers, travel entrepreneurs, hospitality operators, development partners, and industry experts to deliberate on the future of Nigeria’s tourism sector.

The conference will be held under the theme, “Unlocking Nigeria’s Tourism Potential: Strengthening Tour Operations for Sustainable Destination Development,” a timely topic that reflects the growing importance of professional tour operations in building competitive, resilient, and sustainable tourism destinations across Nigeria.

As one of the distinguished international guests, Amb. Dine Bouraima will deliver a goodwill address, congratulating NATOP on its remarkable journey over the past decade and celebrating the association’s achievements in advancing Nigeria’s tourism industry. He is also expected to commend the leadership of Hajia Bolaji Mustapha for steering the association to greater heights, particularly through initiatives that have strengthened institutional capacity and enhanced collaboration within the sector.

In his remarks, the AITEC World President is expected to reaffirm the Council’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote seamless travel across Africa, stronger partnerships between African tourism stakeholders, sustainable destination development, and increased investment in the continent’s tourism economy.

The participation of AITEC World at the anniversary conference further underscores the organization’s vision of fostering greater collaboration among African tourism institutions while positioning tourism as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, regional integration, and cultural exchange.

The 10th AGM also provides an opportunity for industry leaders to review the progress of Nigeria’s tour operations sector, identify emerging opportunities, address prevailing challenges, and chart a strategic roadmap for a more competitive and sustainable tourism industry.

As NATOP celebrates a decade of service and leadership, stakeholders are optimistic that the conference will produce meaningful recommendations capable of unlocking Nigeria’s vast tourism potential and strengthening the country’s position as one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations.

In furtherance of its commitment to promoting sustainable economic development, tourism cooperation, regional integration, and strategic partnerships across Africa, AITEC World paid a high-level courtesy visit to the Headquarters of the Economic and Social Council (ESC) of the Republic of Benin on Wednesday, 3rd June 2026.

The meeting, which commenced at 4:10 PM and lasted approximately forty minutes, took place in a cordial and constructive atmosphere at the ESC Headquarters in Cotonou. The AITEC World delegation was warmly received by His Excellency Mr. Conrad Gbaguidi, President of the Economic and Social Council of the Republic of Benin, alongside members of his executive team.

The delegation was led by Amb. Dine Bouraïma, President of AITEC World, and included the National Representative of AITEC World in Togo, the Deputy Representative of AITEC World in Benin, and the Personal Attaché to the President of AITEC World.

The purpose of the audience was to formally introduce AITEC World and present its vision, strategic objectives, ongoing projects, and long-term roadmap focused on advancing economic growth, tourism development, investment promotion, and regional cooperation throughout Africa and beyond.

During the discussions, Amb. Dine Bouraïma highlighted the organization’s achievements and outlined several flagship initiatives designed to foster stronger collaboration among governments, private sector institutions, development partners, and civil society stakeholders in support of Africa’s socioeconomic transformation.

Particular emphasis was placed on AITEC World’s mission to serve as a platform for dialogue, innovation, partnership-building, and continental integration through strategic tourism and economic initiatives.

His Excellency Mr. Conrad Gbaguidi expressed keen interest in the organization’s vision and commended AITEC World for its dedication to advancing Africa’s development agenda. He acknowledged the relevance and potential impact of the initiatives presented and offered valuable recommendations aimed at enhancing the sustainability and effectiveness of the proposed programs.

The meeting further explored opportunities for future institutional collaboration and strategic synergies between AITEC World and the Economic and Social Council in areas aligned with sustainable development, economic diplomacy, tourism advancement, and regional integration.

As part of the discussions, Amb. Dine Bouraïma officially invited His Excellency Mr. Conrad Gbaguidi to participate in the forthcoming African Tourism Dialogue (ATD), scheduled to hold from 10th to 15th November 2026 at the Headquarters of the African Union in Addis Ababa, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

The continental gathering is expected to convene distinguished leaders, policymakers, business executives, tourism stakeholders, development practitioners, and influential personalities from across Africa and the international community to exchange ideas and promote collaborative solutions for Africa’s advancement.

His Excellency Mr. Conrad Gbaguidi welcomed the invitation with appreciation and recognized the importance of the initiative in strengthening continental dialogue, cooperation, and African integration.

The courtesy visit marked another important milestone in AITEC World’s ongoing institutional engagement within the Republic of Benin and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to building meaningful partnerships that contribute to sustainable development and shared prosperity across Africa.

The AITEC World delegation expressed sincere appreciation to His Excellency Mr. Conrad Gbaguidi and his distinguished team for the warm reception, insightful exchanges, and strong interest demonstrated toward the organization’s mission and activities.

AITEC World remains committed to deepening strategic collaborations and advancing initiatives that support economic growth, tourism promotion, regional integration, and sustainable development across the world.

On the evening of 22nd February 2026, the elegant halls of Benin Royal Hotel in Cotonou came alive as AITEC World hosted a prestigious dinner in honour of Nigerian delegates attending the ‘Nigeria Day’ celebration at FInAB 2026.

The high-level gathering reflected the spirit of regional unity, tourism diplomacy, and cultural collaboration between Nigeria and Benin Republic.

The dinner followed the successful Nigeria Day at the Festival International des Arts du Bénin (FInAB) 2026 and served as a strategic platform for deeper engagement between AITEC World and key stakeholders in Nigeria’s tourism, academic, aviation, media, maritime and cultural and Art sectors.

AITEC World President, Dine Bouraima making his opening remarks at the event

The evening was graced by an array of eminent personalities from Nigeria, including:
Olori Omolara Fashola-Macgregor, Ilawo Kingdom, Abeokuta
Prof. Jeleel Ojuade, Vice Chancellor, Ojaja University
Dr. Badaki Ali, President, Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria
Amb. Ayo Omotoso, CEO, Travelogue
Dr. Bolaji Kelani, Aerovessel Aviation
Pelu Awofeso, Award-winning Journalist
Erelu Abisoye Odeyemi, CEO, Keras Travels and Founder of Afro Fusion Festival
Precious Okonji, Administrative Secretary, FTAN
Ms.Degbetuwa Sammy, Maritime and Tourism Expert
Dr. Shola Sanni, Ojaja University
Ms.Bose Ponu, Kwara State University.

Several other distinguished guests and stakeholders were also in attendance, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

A Warm Welcome from AITEC World Leadership
In his welcome address, Amb. Dine Bouraima, President of AITEC World, expressed profound delight in receiving the Nigerian delegation at the organization’s headquarters in Cotonou. He emphasized the strategic importance of Nigeria to AITEC World’s continental vision and described the visit as a defining moment in strengthening cross-border tourism, trade, and cultural diplomacy.
Amb. Bouraima highlighted the need for sustained collaboration, institutional partnerships, and active Nigerian participation in AITEC World’s programs and initiatives. He reiterated that the future of African tourism lies in unity, structured engagement, and shared economic goals.

Presentation of AITEC’s Vision and Mission
Delivering a comprehensive presentation on the organization, Amb. Kazeem Balogun, Vice President on Communications and International Relations, outlined AITEC World’s mission, operational framework, and expanding global footprint.
His presentation showcased the organization’s strides since inception, its strategic alliances, and its commitment to positioning Africa as a competitive global tourism and economic powerhouse.

In his remarks, Prof. Jeleel Ojuade commended AITEC World for its remarkable achievements within a short period. He expressed his delight at the organization’s progress and pledged the full support of Ojaja University in promoting academic partnerships, research collaboration, and youth engagement initiatives aligned with AITEC’s objectives.

Similarly, Dr. Badaki Ali, President of FTAN, delivered an inspiring presentation reflecting his enthusiasm for AITEC World’s pan-African outlook. He assured the leadership of FTAN’s readiness to deepen collaboration, foster stronger institutional ties, and create mutually beneficial platforms for tourism development between Nigeria and Benin Republic.

An Evening of Fellowship and Diplomacy

Beyond the formal presentations, the dinner provided a relaxed yet purposeful environment for networking, exchange of ideas, and strengthening professional bonds.

Conversations revolved around tourism development, aviation connectivity, cultural exports, academic exchange, and regional economic integration.

The evening concluded with a sumptuous dining experience and a vibrant photograph session, capturing memorable moments of unity, friendship, and renewed commitment to African collaboration.

The delegates expressed admiration at the clarity of vision and the structured growth trajectory of AITEC World.
Commitments to Collaboration.

The AITEC World Dinner not only honoured the Nigerian delegates but also reinforced the growing synergy between stakeholders committed to advancing tourism and economic cooperation across West Africa and the continent at large.

Amb. Michelina Gabrie Sanquest—Board Member of the Africa-International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC World) and Director of Globe Trotters SA Limited—hosted a high-level gathering in Rome, Italy on the 18th January ,2026 bringing together approximately 90 members of the Lions Club and tourism stakeholders in Europe.

The event was honoured by the presence of H.E. Lebeko Sello, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Lesotho to Italy, alongside key tourism and civil society stakeholders. The meeting served as a follow-up and debriefing session to the familiarisation tour organised by Globe Trotters SA Limited in Lesotho, December 2025.

Somw of the participants shared first-hand experiences from the tour, showcasing Lesotho’s diverse tourism offerings and untapped potential. Enthusiasm was high as members encouraged one another to begin preparations for travel to Lesotho in 2026, positioning the Mountain Kingdom as an emerging destination of interest.

A group photograph of some of the Lion Club President, Members and other tourism stakeholders with the Amb. of Lesotho to Italy, H.E. Lebeko Sello and Amb. Michelina Sanquest at the event in Rome

Beyond tourism, discussions also focused on opportunities for charity and community development initiatives to be integrated into future visits.

The Embassy of Lesotho was requested to support the identification of viable projects that could benefit local communities.
The engagement marked a significant step in strengthening the growing partnership between the Kingdom of Lesotho and Globe Trotters SA Limited, while reinforcing people-to-people cooperation in tourism, philanthropy, and sustainable development.

It also exemplified AITEC World’s mission of connecting Africa to the world—and the world to Africa—through strategic tourism and economic collaboration.

The Africa–International Tourism and Economic Council (AITEC World) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Una Voce per Padre Pio (UVPP), Italy, marking a significant step toward strengthening humanitarian collaboration and social impact initiatives across Africa and beyond.

The MoU signing took place in Cotonou, the headquarters when the UVPP went on a mission to Benin just recently.

The partnership is designed to synergize efforts in supporting vulnerable and marginalized groups, with a strong focus on humanitarian assistance, social welfare, sustainable health tourism development.⁹

AITEC World President, Amb. Dine Bouraima and UVPP International President, Ento Palumbo, signing the MoU at the AITEC World Headquarters in Cotonou, Benin Republic

Through this MoU, both organizations commit to jointly advancing projects that address poverty, social exclusion, healthcare challenges, and access to education for socio-economic development.

About Una Voce per Padre Pio (UVPP)

Una Voce per Padre Pio Onlus, now recognized as a Third Sector Entity (ETS), is a respected Italian humanitarian organization founded around 2008. The association operates in Italy and several developing countries in Africa, delivering life-changing interventions for those facing social and economic hardship.

UVPP’s initiatives span:

Support for children and vulnerable families

Healthcare and medical outreach programs

Educational and community development projects

Humanitarian assistance to disadvantaged populations

A group photograph of AITEC World team and UVPP team after a successful MoU signing in Cotonou

Guided by its mission — “to relieve people’s suffering in body and spirit” — UVPP provides support without discrimination, regardless of race, religion, or social status.

A Shared Vision for Impact

By aligning with UVPP, AITEC World reinforces its commitment to social responsibility, recognizing that tourism and health and economic development must go hand in hand with compassion, inclusion, and human dignity. The collaboration is expected to facilitate cross-border humanitarian projects, mobilize resources, and foster people-centered development initiatives, particularly within African communities.

This MoU represents a shared vision of service, solidarity, and sustainable impact, leveraging the strengths of both institutions to bring hope and tangible support to those who need it most.

The WHX Leaders Summit 2025, held in Ghana from 9–10 December 2025, stood out as one of West Africa’s most impactful health leadership gatherings, bringing together political leaders, health ministers, global development partners, and private-sector stakeholders. At the heart of the summit’s success was Ambassador Nancy Q. Sam, Vice President of the ECOWAS Tourism Private Sector under COPITOUR and Regional Representative (West Africa) for AITEC World whose leadership as On-Ground Lead Coordinator ensured a seamless and highly successful convening.

A Strong Background in Regional and Continental Engagement

Ambassador Nancy Q. Sam is widely respected for her work at the intersection of tourism diplomacy, private-sector development, and international cooperation within the ECOWAS region. Through her role at COPITOUR, she has consistently championed cross-border collaboration, institutional partnerships, and inclusive development strategies that align tourism, health, and socio-economic growth.

Ambassador Nancy Sam being presented the awards at the event in Accra, Ghana

Her appointment as Coordinator of the WHX Leaders Summit 2025 Ghana, assisted by David Sam, reflected this strong background and her proven capacity to manage high-level international events involving governments, multilateral institutions, and global corporations.

Convening Africa’s Health Leadership

Under Ambassador Nancy’s coordination, the WHX Leaders Summit successfully brought together fifteen African Ministers of Health and senior government representatives from countries including Senegal, The Gambia, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea Conakry, and several other African nations.

The summit also welcomed the President of the Africa -International Tourism and Economic ( Council World). reinforcing the growing recognition of the link between health systems, tourism, and economic resilience.

Adding global weight to the discussions were representatives from leading international organizations and industry partners, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Pfizer, Siemens Healthineers, Roche, and other major pharmaceutical supporters and strategic partners.

Their presence underscored the summit’s relevance as a platform for policy dialogue, investment, innovation, and public-private collaboration in Africa’s health sector.

Presidential Recognition and National Support

The importance of the WHX Health Summit was further highlighted by the strong backing of the Government of Ghana. The summit was officially acknowledged and honored by the President of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, who personally welcomed all dignitaries at the opening ceremony, signaling Ghana’s commitment to continental health leadership and cooperation.

Ambassador Nancy’s tireless efforts were also recognized by Ghana’s Minister of Health, Hon. Menta, who played a key role in ensuring the overall success of the summit and commended the effective coordination that made the high-level engagement possible.

International Recognition for Outstanding Leadership

In recognition of her exceptional contribution, Ambassador Nancy Q. Sam was presented with a plaque of excellence by the Vice President of Informa Markets, the global organization behind WHX and the renowned Dubai Arab Health Expo.

The award acknowledged her outstanding leadership and coordination in delivering one of the most successful major health summits in West Africa in recent years.

A Lasting Impact

The WHX Leaders Summit 2025 Ghana did more than convene leaders—it strengthened networks, advanced dialogue on health systems development, and reinforced Africa’s collective voice in global health partnerships. Ambassador Nancy Q. Sam’s role was central to this achievement, reflecting her growing influence as a continental coordinator, diplomat, and advocate for integrated development across health, tourism, and the private sector.

Her work at the summit has set a new benchmark for high-level event coordination in Africa and further positioned Ghana as a strategic hub for international health diplomacy in West Africa and beyond.

The WHX Leaders Summit, held in Accra, Ghana, on December 10, 2025, featured a memorable moment that underscored the power of leadership, partnership, and cultural diplomacy within the global health community. During the summit, Mr. Tom Coleman, Group Director of WHX, was specially honoured with the presentation of the Panu di Pinti in recognition of his outstanding leadership and enduring contributions to the advancement of the health sector.

The symbolic honour was presented by Mr. Adnane Yahya, Secretary General of COPITOUR–ECOWAS and National Representative of AITEC World in Guinea-Bissau, alongside Honourable Augusto Gomes, former Minister of Health of Guinea-Bissau. Their joint presentation reflected a shared appreciation for Mr. Coleman’s role in fostering collaboration, innovation, and dialogue across the health ecosystem.

Widely regarded in Guinea-Bissau as a national treasure, the Panu di Pinti is a cultural emblem of exceptional originality and deep social meaning. Traditionally reserved for distinguished individuals, it is offered as a sign of honour and as an expression of fraternity, friendship, and gratitude, making it a fitting tribute to a leader whose influence extends beyond borders.

The ceremony took place in the presence of Amb. Nancy Sam, Vice President of COPITOUR and Regional Representative for West Africa at AITEC World, further reinforcing the regional and institutional significance of the gesture.

This moment of recognition added a unique cultural dimension to the WHX Leaders Summit, highlighting how respect for heritage and shared values can strengthen global partnerships. It also reaffirmed the Summit’s broader vision: building a more inclusive, collaborative, and impactful future for health through leadership that connects people, cultures, and institutions.