Telecommunication, electricity challenges affecting tourism
Limited supporting infrastructure such as roads, telecommunication challenges, lack of electricity in tourism destinations—particularly those in rural areas—have been highlighted as some of the issues that are affecting the growth of the country’s tourism sector.
According to an outcome report following tourism sector panel discussions at the recent Malawi Investment Forum (MIF), Malawi has untapped opportunities, including national parks, Lake Malawi and Mount Mulanje which, if fully promoted, can attract a lot of visitors.
The panel discussion, which was chaired by Sunbird chief executive officer Rodger Gardner, had general manager of Protea Ryalls Mischa Lehner, Head of Rest Africa Support Union Industrial Corporation Thokoane Tsolo and general manager of Peermont Umodzi Park Neil Sewnarain as panelists.
Director of Tourism Patricia Liabuba represented the minister during the occasion.
According to the report, access to land for investment, direct flights from major source markets such as London and Dubai as well as uncompetitive investment incentives such as taxes, visa issues and lack of collaboration are also affecting the industry.
However, despite the challenges, the forum recognised efforts being undertaken by government in promoting tourism.
“Most of the challenges facing the sector are beyond the mandate of the ministry responsible for tourism. With regard to airlines, there is need for direct flights from key source markets and Malawian Airlines indicated to have this in their five year strategic plan,” reads the report.
The meeting also resolved that there is need for clear direction on visa requirements, proper collaboration among players in the sector and harmonisation of licences, among others.
“There is need for clear guidelines on investment incentives, simplify investment procedures and change potential visitor’s perception about Malawi and Africa through aggressive marketing,” the report adds.
Noticeable developments that were noted during the discussion include construction of the Mangochi airport, holiday resort at Cape Maclear, Majete Wildlife Reserve as a big five destination and concession of Liwonde National Park and Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve to African Parks and Wildlife.
The decision by Lonely Planet to vote for Malawi as one of the top 10 must see destinations, development of the Malawi 2020 Tourism Development Plan, skills development, enhancing capacity of private sector through private sector reforms were highlighted in the report as some of the noticeable developments.
