Evolution of the industry in Somalia

Prior to independence in 1960, the country had tried to set up an appreciable tourism interaction. This state of affairs was difficult since we started from scratch as in many places of Africa as we did not inherit a fairly good but limited tourism infrastructure and superstructure in place. The years that followed independence saw good growth in tourism industry which was characterized by the strong government involvement and active partnership with the private sector.

In view of the proven potential of the tourism sector, in the Government it was included a Minster of Tourism which defined the growth targets that it hoped to achieve in the years as well as outline the areas where the Government would participate jointly with the private investors in developing the tourist industry. The new Transitional Federal Government will continue I n this policy as outlined in this document covering the following main fields: -

·        Type of Tourism to be encouraged;

·        Protection and development of Somalia Tourist attractions;

·        Protection and Development of tourist infrastructure and superstructure as well as other tourist facilities;

·        Training and manpower development for the sector;

·        Promotion and marketing in the tourist generating markets

·        Research

The Government projected an average growth rate approximately 20% each year in visitor arrivals. With the increase of package tours, tourists tended to stay longer than was the case previously. The growth in demand for hotel accommodation and other facilities increased proportionately. It is worth noting however that the 20% average growth rate targeted than may be somewhat over ambitious considering both internal and external factors that may come into play in the future.

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