This initiative reflects Benin’s commitment to promoting its tourism destination to the Brazilian public, Afro-descendant diasporas, and international tourism stakeholders, while strengthening ties between the two countries. Following recent official visits to Brazil by His Excellency Mr. Patrice Talon, President of the Republic of Benin, the country will participate in the Black Travel Summit 2025, scheduled for November 13–16, 2025, in Rio de Janeiro. This participation is part of the ongoing exchanges with Brazilian authorities, particularly with the Brazilian Tourism Promotion Agency (EMBRATUR).
The Black Travel Summit: A Strategic Global Platform
The Black Travel Summit is the premier annual gathering for creators, professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors of African descent in the travel sector. Since its inception, it has established itself as a global platform celebrating, accelerating, and amplifying the impact of Afro-descendant initiatives in international tourism. The event brings together thought leaders, influencers, and specialized media, offering a unique space to share experiences, promote destinations, and foster lasting partnerships.
Each edition features conferences, workshops, networking sessions, thematic panels, and B2B meetings, enabling participants to exchange insights on industry trends and create synergies across continents. For Benin, this showcase represents an opportunity to highlight its wealth of attractions, strengthen its relationship with the diasporas, and position the country as a tourism destination capable of attracting international travelers seeking authenticity and diversity.
Benin: A World of Splendors to Discover
Since 2016, Benin has placed tourism at the heart of its economic and social development strategy, considering it a key driver of growth and sustainable opportunities. The government has made significant investments to modernize and expand tourism infrastructure while highlighting the country’s historical, cultural, and natural heritage. This transformation aims to diversify the economy, generate sustainable jobs, and boost related sectors such as hospitality, transport, and leisure.
Benin offers a unique array of experiences: a journey through history at the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage site; exploration of Ganvié, the renowned stilt village; the famous Amazon Esplanade; the historic city of Ouidah; encounters with wildlife and nature at Pendjari National Park; and immersion in arts, culture, and Vodun spirituality.
This richness and diversity have received international recognition: Benin was ranked among the Top 10 Best Destinations to Discover in 2024 by Lonely Planet and listed among the 25 Best New Destinations to Visit in 2025 by the prestigious U.S. magazine AFAR. These distinctions confirm not only the country’s exceptional appeal but also the relevance and effectiveness of its strategy to make tourism a central pillar of its development.
A Strategic Showcase for Diasporas and Tourism Professionals
Benin’s participation in the Black Travel Summit also enhances the country’s visibility among Afro-descendant diasporas in South America and the United States, while fostering the development of partnerships with investors, tour operators, and international tourism stakeholders. Benin Tourism, the country’s official tourism agency, will coordinate the national presence at the event, promote the destination, and host visitors and partners. B2B meetings, networking sessions, and encounters with international media and influencers will be organized to maximize Benin’s impact and appeal as a must-visit tourism destination in Africa.
Mr. Sindé Chekete, Director General of Benin Tourism, stated:
“Our participation in the Black Travel Summit in Rio de Janeiro is fully aligned with the actions undertaken by Benin Tourism to promote our destination internationally and assert our place on the global tourism stage. It is a unique opportunity to present our destination to Brazilian travelers while also strengthening our ties with Afro-descendant diasporas by showcasing the cultural, natural, and heritage wealth of Benin.”
Ms. Anita Moreau, Director General of the Black Travel Summit, added:
“We are honored to welcome Benin Tourism as a partner of this year’s Black Travel Summit. With Diaspórica: Legacy in Motion taking place in Brazil—a country deeply tied to Beninese heritage—this partnership speaks directly to the heart of our diaspora. For many participants, whose DNA and roots trace back to Benin, it represents both a reconnection with their origins and a celebration of Afro-tourism as a bridge uniting culture, heritage, and people across continents.”
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