By Hon. Cuthbert Ncube and Hon. Dine Bourima
The African Tourism Board has formally announced its endorsement of Honourable Harry Theoharis for the position of Secretary-General for the United Nations Tourism from 2026 to 2029. Hon. Theoharis, a Greek national, possesses a Master of Engineering degree in Software Engineering with Honours from the Imperial College of Science, Technology, and Medicine in London. He has accumulated a decade of experience in senior-level roles in London, engaging in various sectors, including technology, consulting, and finance, while overseeing numerous global initiatives.
Currently, Harry Theoharis is a member of the Hellenic Parliament, representing the ruling party, New Democracy. Prior to his current role, he served as the Deputy Minister of Finance. As Greece’s Minister of Tourism from July 2019 to August 2021, he effectively managed the significant challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership was characterised by introducing innovative strategies aimed at the safe reopening of Greece to international tourists, including developing COVID-19 tracing systems and dynamic marketing campaigns. He exhibited exceptional leadership by uniting diverse stakeholders to rebuild confidence in travel. In recognition of his contributions, he received international accolades, was appointed Chair of the UN Tourism Crisis Management Committee, and successfully led Greece to attain the designation of “Europe’s Leading Destination” at the 2021 World Travel Awards. His leadership has illustrated resilience, innovation, and collaboration in navigating the complexities associated with the tourism crisis.
In acknowledgement of his significant contributions and considerable expertise in the advancement of travel and tourism, His Excellency Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the Prime Minister of Greece, has appointed him to present his candidacy for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations Tourism.
Engagements between the African Tourism Board and Hon. Theoharis have entailed extensive discussions concerning his dedication to Africa in several critical areas, including investment, education and training, climate change, sustainability, and the enhancement of Africa’s visibility and market share in tourism. His commitment to the African continent, coupled with his efforts to position tourism as a vital global catalyst for unity, shared prosperity, and collective resilience in confronting pressing global challenges, aligns profoundly with the mission of the African Tourism Board and the broader objectives of African tourism.
Cuthbert Ncube, Executive Chairman of the African Tourism Board, stated: “The organisation firmly supports the vision of the Honourable Harry Theoharis in implementing stringent measures to ensure that United Nations Tourism adheres to the highest standards of governance. To achieve measurable outcomes, it is essential to systematically evaluate success while fostering transparent communication among governments, businesses, and local communities. Additionally, his commitment to enhancing collaboration in the travel and tourism sector and positioning the African continent on the global stage aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the African Tourism Board.”
It is crucial to recognise that the earliest recorded interaction between Greece and Africa occurred during the Bronze Age, specifically in the fourteenth century BCE when the Minoans established trade relations with Egypt. Initial references to Greek engagement with Africa are found in the Homeric poems, believed to have been composed in the eighth century BCE. Moreover, several initiatives and collaborations between Greece and Africa have emerged over time. Greece is strategically positioned to facilitate tourism between Europe and Africa, particularly regarding expertise, training, and connectivity.
It is imperative to acknowledge the interconnectedness of Europe and Africa, rooted in their shared history, culture, and geography, alongside a collective vision for the future and a community of values.
Europe continues to serve as one of the principal source markets within the travel and tourism sector. At the same time, the European Union remains Africa’s primary partner in key areas such as trade and investment, security, energy, the green transition, and digital transformation. Africa offers a landscape rich with opportunities and unexploited tourism potential. The vision articulated by Hon. Theoharis seeks to strengthen the relationships between Africa, Europe, and the global community through enhanced cooperation at various levels. This initiative aims to promote Africa’s progress in sustainability and digital transformation.
Hon. Harry Theoharis mentioned: ”I am deeply grateful to the African Tourism Board for their support of my candidacy for UN Tourism.
“Africa occupies a special position in the global tourism landscape, renowned for its breathtaking natural wonders, vibrant cultural heritage, and its significant potential to influence the future of tourism worldwide.
“This endorsement reinforces my commitment to advancing a tourism sector that is inclusive, sustainable, and a catalyst for meaningful progress. I eagerly anticipate working alongside Africa’s leaders and stakeholders to fully harness the region’s remarkable tourism potential and contribute to a thriving, globally connected tourism ecosystem.”
Recognising the importance of a candidate for the United Nations Tourism position who is genuinely devoted to the continent’s interests is imperative. The African Tourism Board is committed to supporting Hon. Theoharis’s candidacy and will work closely to advance his vision across Africa.
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About The African Tourism Board
The African Tourism Board (ATB) is a non-profit organisation designated as a strategic partner among African nations to foster the
development, marketing, and implementation of tourism initiatives that address both the evolving needs of local industries and the international tourism market. Its primary objective is to promote Africa as a premier global destination and establish the continent’s presence in the competitive landscape of sought-after tourist locations.
The ATB underscores Africa’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse attractions to position it as a leading travel destination while ensuring the welfare and empowerment of local communities.
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Hon. Cuthbert Ncube is the Executive Chairman African Tourism Board and Hon. Dine Bourima is the Vice President of the African Tourism Board.