Tour operators across West Africa are looking for immediate reforms and practical solutions to tackle the lasting challenges they face while traveling across borders within subregions.
The operator called during a panel session in the ongoing 8th edition of the West African Travel Expo (ACCRAWEIZO 2025) on Friday in Ghana.
The theme of the event is “Rethinking the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol.”
Mrs. Borazimstafa, president of the Nigeria Tour Operators Association (NATOP), said that public-private partnerships (PPPs) are essential to achieving seamless cross-border travel in West Africa.
“Tour operators must first move while waiting for policy changes.
“The private sector must start moving forward like in Kenya. The government followed the leadership of the private tourism industry there,” she said.
She urged local governments to work together on infrastructure development, including border facilities, roads and transportation systems.
“We need a good road network that enhances seamless travel, and doing so will dramatically reduce airfares.
“In many cases, it's cheaper to fly to Europe than to neighboring West African countries,” she said.
She also said creating a collaboration of bilingual content will bridge the linguistic disparities in the region. “This will help showcase the region's rich cultural heritage.”
Recounting his recent experience at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, where immigration officers processed the documents with professionalism, Mustafa emphasized that such gestures could significantly change perceptions of travel in West Africa.
“These small acts of courtesy and efficiency build confidence in local travel,” she said.
Patience O'Collie, managing director of God's own travel agency in Togo, also said the comprehensive tourism directory provides better visibility for local operators to connect with local players.
“A directory covering multiple countries in its cross-border travel itinerary and including cultural festivals from across West Africa creates value for both visitors and operators,” says Okorie.
On her side, Aiocomathorn from Benin's Jessica Tour looked back on the daily challenges operators face when crossing the border.
“Our fundamental needs as tour operators are our ability to move freely from one country to another. Without it, we cannot work effectively,” she said.
Session moderator, Gota International's Obama Ojukuu highlighted the role of the media in shaping positive narratives about tourism in West Africa.
