The challenges of sustainable tourism in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Tourism is a key sector for the economic and social development of a country. This is why the DRC has set up initiatives to promote sustainable tourism within the framework of the IX Games of La Francophonie. John Katumba, tourism expert and supervisor of the “Sustainable Development and Tourism” Commission at the National Games Committee, sheds light on these issues.
One of the priorities of this commission was to ensure that the Games of La Francophonie are respectful of the environment. Through a Sustainable Development Charter, developed in collaboration with the International Organization of La Francophonie, measures have been taken to ensure that the Games are environmentally responsible events.
These measures include site remediation, interior and exterior cleaning, waste management, tree planting and eco-citizenship education. The aim is to involve all tourism stakeholders, from service providers to residents, to create a lasting dynamic around this event.
During the Games, John Katumba’s team was particularly involved in waste management. The objective was to make the sanitary facilities in the stadiums as clean as those in the homes of Kinshasa residents. This attention paid to hygiene and the environment reassured the parents and contributed to the good image of the Games.
But the challenges of sustainable tourism go well beyond the Games of La Francophonie. John Katumba emphasizes the importance of working on anchoring development after the event. It invites reflection on the use of the infrastructure built for the Games and the establishment of a team of experts responsible for guiding government decisions. We must prevent these infrastructures from becoming “white elephants” and ensure that they continue to contribute to the development of the DRC, both economically and socially.
In conclusion, the Games of La Francophonie in the DRC have made it possible to highlight the importance of sustainable tourism. Through concrete actions and the involvement of all stakeholders, it is possible to create a lasting legacy for the country. Sustainable tourism is an essential lever for the economic and social development of the DRC, and it is crucial to continue to invest in this area after the Games.
Sentence Conclusion: Sustainable tourism in the DRC has enormous potential and represents a real development opportunity for the country. Thanks to initiatives such as the Games of La Francophonie, it is possible to highlight the natural and cultural riches of the country while preserving the environment.. The challenge now is to extend this momentum and continue to promote sustainable tourism, so that the DRC becomes an essential destination for travelers in search of authentic and environmentally friendly experiences