The untapped potential of inclusive tourism to drive the growth of Africa’s travel industry was in focus at this year’s Africa Travel Week 2024 part of WTM Africa. A diverse panel of advocates, experts, and tourism suppliers engaged in a discussion, highlighting the significant economic benefits that travellers with disabilities can bring to the continent.
Inclusive travel is a billion-dollar industry that Africa can tap into, and the panellists emphasised the unique spending patterns of this market segment. Travellers with disabilities often spend more, travel with companions, and stay for longer periods, making them a lucrative target for the industry.
According to the World Health Organisation, over 1 billion people worldwide, or 15% of the global population, live with disabilities. This vast demographic encompasses a range of visible and invisible conditions, from mobility issues to cognitive and sensory challenges. As the world’s population ages, with the number of people over 60 expected to double by 2050, the need for accessible travel is only expected to grow.
Source: Travel and Tour World