Tourism

The tourism sector is playing a key role in the government’s diversification strategy. With the Green Gabon programme promoting conservation and forestry, the country is aiming to attract high-spending visitors with an interest in ecotourism opportunities offered by Gabon’s lush rainforests and diverse wildlife. Initiatives are also under way to upgrade hotels and conference facilities for business tourists, who account for around 60% of visitors to the country. While the sector’s contribution to GDP was just 2.8% in 2011, it is expected to increase steadily with continued attention from the government, which is hoping to double the number of tourist arrivals by 2020. This chapter contains an interview with Alan Bernstein, Executive Chairman, Sustainable Forestry Management Africa.