Ouagadougou: This Saturday, September 27, 2025, the international community commemorates the 45th World Tourism Day with a focus on “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” Burkina Faso actively participates in this global observance, reflecting on tourism’s role in promoting environmentally and socially responsible practices, economic development, and intercultural understanding.
According to Burkina Information Agency, this year’s celebration coincides with the 15th edition of the Ouagadougou International Tourism and Hotel Exhibition (SITHO), themed ‘Tourism and integration of the peoples of the Sahel.’ These themes emphasize tourism as a catalyst for sustainable transformation and international relations. In 2024, international tourism saw significant growth, with 1.465 billion tourists traveling globally, a 12.2% increase from 2023.
Burkina Faso is part of this trend despite security challenges, with international tourist arrivals rising from 120,803 in 2023 to 132,340 in 2024, marking a 9.6% increase. This growth is attributed to improved security, major international events, and quality hotel infrastructure. Efforts to reclaim territory and enhance security have positively impacted tourism, with a projected 9% increase in overall arrivals in 2024 compared to 2023.
Revenue from tourism reached 90.34 billion FCFA in 2024, a 3.5% increase from 2023. The sector’s ability to create jobs and combat poverty positions it as a reliable ally against violent extremism and youth recruitment by terrorist groups. World Tourism Day serves as a call to action for responsible travel, supporting local initiatives, and promoting Burkina Faso as a destination.
Public and private stakeholders are encouraged to innovate and adapt to market trends, and the government supports initiatives to sustainably anchor domestic tourism as a pillar of development. Discounts during peak domestic tourism seasons and visa-free entry for African citizens aim to make tourism more accessible and promote cultural integration.
The Presidential Vision “Faso Mebo” aligns with sustainable transformation by enhancing city and countryside infrastructure and urban planning. The Burkinabe government acknowledges the contributions of tourism entrepreneurs and associations to this initiative, building a dynamic, resilient tourism sector.
On World Tourism Day, there’s a call for stronger collaboration between public and private actors and financial partners for harmonious tourism development. Despite challenges, promoters continue investing in tourism, demonstrating faith in Burkina Faso’s future. National and international investors are invited to explore opportunities in the Tourism Investment Guide.
Developing tourism that preserves natural and cultural heritage is vital for a responsible, equitable, and resilient future. Stakeholders and the public are urged to embrace cultural diversity and collaborate to make Burkina Faso a hope-bearing, development-driven destination.