As part of the official activities marking World Tourism Day 2026, diplomats, administrative authorities, and key stakeholders from the tourism and leisure sector gathered for an excursion to the Mefou Wildlife Park.
Led by Mr. NDIORO A MAMOUM, Secretary General of the Ministry of Tourism and Leisure – MINTOUL, the guided tour offered guests a firsthand look at Cameroon’s vibrant natural heritage. The historic event provided a memorable experience for international representatives and local officials alike, placing the nation’s environmental treasures at the center of the global celebration.
The visit served as a powerful showcase of Cameroon’s rich biodiversity, emphasizing the critical role of ecotourism and conservation in modern travel. Attendees explored the sanctuary’s lush landscapes and encountered its protected wildlife, gaining deeper insight into ongoing efforts to preserve delicate ecosystems.
Beyond its environmental focus, the outing functioned as a vital platform for diplomatic engagement and cultural exchange, successfully positioning Cameroon as a premier destination for nature-based travel.
This year’s celebrations took place under the forward-looking theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.” While the overarching focus remains on technological innovation, the excursion at Mefou Park highlighted the essential balance between digital progress and environmental stewardship. Organizers demonstrated that emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, must be harnessed to protect, manage, and promote natural assets rather than distance visitors from the physical world.
Through strategic initiatives like the Mefou excursion, MINTOUL continues to enhance the visibility of Cameroon’s unique travel destinations on the international stage. By directly involving diplomatic representatives and institutional partners, the ministry is building stronger global alliances to spur investment and interest in the national tourism framework. These collaborative efforts reflect a long-term vision to establish sustainable tourism as a major driver of economic growth and international cooperation.
The event underscored that the future of travel lies at the intersection of technology, heritage, and sustainability. By uniting digital innovation with hands-on conservation efforts, Cameroon is setting a precedent for responsible tourism development across the region.
As World Tourism Day 2026 concludes, the Ministry of Tourism and Leisure remains committed to expanding these partnerships and sharing the nation’s natural wonders with the world.
