SOWEDA has taken part in the first ever Cameroon International Tourism trade fair that held from the 4th–6th of November, 2021 at the Limbe Botanic garden. The 3 day event organized by Flora Travel and Tours LTD in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Leisure, brought together hundreds of tourism stakeholders from different domains and localities to showcase the pride and potentials of the South West Region. The event took place under the theme: “Community Participation and Tourism Development”

Launching Ceremony

The fair kicked off with the official launching ceremony on the 4th November, at the jungle village of the Botanic Garden, chaired by the Inspector General at the South West Region Governor’s office, personal representative of Cameroon’s Minister of state, Minister Tourism and Leisure. Also present for the event was the Nigerian High Commissioner to Cameroon, who delivered a special discuss on networking in the tourism field between Cameroon and Nigeria. He was accompanied by the Nigerian Consul Generals for Littoral and West Regions and the South West and North West Regions. Equally in attendance was the SW Regional Delegate for Tourism and Leisure. Several traditional rulers participated at the event to show their support. 

SOWEDA’S Stand

With a beautiful blend of blue, white and green, it was impossible for any visitor to miss SOWEDA’S 3x6m stand.  The entrance of the stand was a pristine representation of the activities carried out at SOWEDA. Visitors were greeted by enticing looking plantain suckers, cassava cuttings and maize seeds, arrayed to catch everyone’s attention. On the right side of the stand, a TV screen displaying a slide show of different schemes undertaken by the South West Development Authority, accompanied by soft welcoming music. Take home reading material on the Establishment was put at the disposal of all. The smiling and welcoming faces of SOWEDA staff at the stand completed the portrait. 

Benefits for SOWEDA 

As an important instrument in the development of the South West Region, SOWEDA’s participation in the tourism fair was important. It was an opportunity to promote agri and agro-tourism which will benefit communities in the South West Region. As many who attended the fair learned, agriculture provides the tourism industry resources for food consumption and also a background for attractions in the rural environment.

It was equally a platform for useful encounters, networking and exchange between SOWEDA and farmers, potential partners and agriculture enthusiasts.