TATO Honoured with Prestigious UN Tourism Award for Advancing Affiliate Membership in Africa
The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) has been proudly recognized on the global stage after receiving the “Promotion of the Affiliate Membership in Africa” award from UN Tourism, the specialized United Nations agency responsible for promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism.
The award was presented during the 45th UN Tourism Affiliate Members Plenary Session held in Riyadh on 7 November 2025, where TATO stood among an exclusive group of only 11 Affiliate Members worldwide whose work exemplifies innovation, impact, leadership, and collaboration within the global tourism ecosystem. TATO was recognized alongside major global names like Saudi Tourism Authority, JTB Corp., TripAdvisor, FIA, IFEMA Madrid, CAMARA ARGENTINA DE TURISMO, EHTTA, MADCUP, Fujairah Adventures, and Visit Nayarit – what an honour for TATO
A Landmark Achievement for Tanzania and Africa
UN Tourism’s decision to honour TATO with the Promotion of the Affiliate Membership in Africa award reflects the Association’s outstanding contribution to expanding the visibility, reach, and influence of the Affiliate Membership Program across the continent.
Through TATO’s dedicated outreach and strong advocacy, the number of UN Tourism Affiliate Members in Africa increased from 16 to 26 in a remarkably short period, a milestone achievement that significantly strengthens Africa’s presence in the global tourism network. This growth now represents 5% of the entire global affiliate membership, demonstrating the increasing importance of African tourism institutions, businesses, and innovators in shaping global tourism policy and development.
UN Tourism acknowledged that TATO’s efforts have created a “well-deserved balance” in regional representation and greatly enhanced Africa’s engagement within the international tourism community.
Recognition Among Global Leaders
At the Opening Ceremony in Riyadh, TATO was celebrated as one of the few institutions to receive a recognition award out of a global network of hundreds of affiliate members. The award was conferred during a session attended by ministers, policymakers, tourism executives, and international organizations, all reflecting on the growing influence of public-private partnerships in shaping tourism’s future.
The Affiliate Members Recognition Ceremony showcased achievements in categories spanning sports tourism, innovation, sustainability, knowledge generation, and impactful public-private collaboration.
For TATO, the award highlighted its exceptional leadership in strengthening Africa’s voice, visibility, and participation within UN Tourism platforms and programs.
This honour not only celebrates TATO’s accomplishments but also positions Tanzania as a leading contributor to the global tourism agenda.
TATO’s Role in Driving Africa’s Tourism Advancement
TATO’s recognition was earned through continuous engagement, strategic promotion, and the mobilization of tourism institutions across Africa to join and actively participate in UN Tourism’s Affiliate Membership framework.
Key areas of TATO’s contribution include:
✔ Promoting the benefits of global collaboration
TATO has championed the importance of cross-continental learning, shared knowledge, and partnership-building through the Affiliate Membership network.
✔ Facilitating outreach and recruitment
By proactively connecting African tourism boards, associations, private companies, and academic institutions with UN Tourism, TATO helped expand regional participation.
✔ Strengthening Africa’s representation in global tourism debates
Through its active involvement in advocacy and international forums, TATO has ensured that Africa’s priorities, from sustainable tourism to fair travel policies, are heard and reflected at global decision-making tables.
✔ Championing innovation and responsible tourism
TATO has led by example, promoting best practices in conservation, community engagement, responsible tourism, and tourism governance, all strongly aligned with UN Tourism’s mission.
A Proud Moment for Tanzanian Tourism
TATO’s award marks a historic moment for Tanzania. It is a testament to the country’s leadership in collaborative tourism development, international engagement, and strengthening of Africa’s collective tourism voice.
This milestone further enhances Tanzania’s global reputation as a champion of sustainable tourism, diplomatic cooperation, and public-private partnership excellence.
The recognition is also a tribute to TATO’s members, over 450 licensed tour operators – whose participation, innovation, and commitment fuel the Association’s international impact.
As UN Tourism noted, TATO’s work stands as a true reflection of impact, innovation, and collaboration in promoting African tourism.
A Celebration of Africa’s Growing Influence
TATO’s award aligns with a broader transformation underway across Africa. More African entities are stepping onto global platforms, contributing expertise, exploring partnerships, and shaping tourism policies that benefit local communities and economies.
By elevating Africa’s presence in the UN Tourism Affiliate Membership network, TATO is helping to create:
- stronger regional collaboration,
- increased international visibility,
- more opportunities for investment and innovation, and
- a unified voice advocating for Africa’s tourism agenda.
This recognition from UN Tourism both honours past achievements and sets the stage for even greater collaboration across the continent.
Looking Ahead
The award signifies more than recognition, it is a call to continue building Africa’s tourism capacity, innovation, and global influence. TATO remains committed to working alongside UN Tourism and other African partners to expand affiliate membership further, champion regional inclusion, and promote sustainable tourism growth.
As the world applauds this achievement, TATO stands ready to strengthen its leadership role in advancing Africa’s tourism transformation.
