As part of the National Tourism Entrepreneur Award, the General Directorate of Tourism organized a panel on Thursday, September 19, 2024, under the theme: "Tourism and Cultural Diversity: Factors for Bringing Communities Together."  

This event brought together various stakeholders in the sector, including tourism and culture officials, restaurateurs, hoteliers, guides, students, and MCCAT agents.

The panel was opened by Dr. Jacob YARABATIOULA, Director General of ENAM, who emphasized the importance of tourism in connecting cultures. He highlighted the opportunities the sector offers for promoting mutual understanding and respect for cultural diversity.

Mr. Basile B. BAZONGO, a lecturer at Joseph Ki-Zerbo University, then took the floor to present concrete examples of tourist destinations that showcase cultural heritage, demonstrating that tourism can be a lever for economic development while preserving local traditions.

Dr. Soumaila MARE, a lecturer-researcher at Nazi Boni University, addressed the contribution of cultural tourism to social cohesion, stressing the role of responsible tourism in strengthening social ties and exchanges between communities.

The debates were moderated by Mrs. Monique OUEDRAOGO/ILBOUDO, Director General of Tourism, who led the discussions. The ceremony concluded with remarks from Mrs. Adama SEGDA, Deputy Secretary General of MCCAT.