Ghanaian entrepreneur Joseph Owiredu has made it to the final round of the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge for the year 2024.
The upcoming 6th edition of the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit is set to take place from May 28 to 31, 2024, in Windhoek, Namibia.
Joseph Owiredu serves as the CEO of Fihankra ComTech Limited, a technology startup that focuses on developing personal safety and security innovations tailored for the African tourism industry, journalists, and institutions.
The Africa Tourism Partners, the organizers of the summit, recently revealed the top five finalists for the 2024 Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge. Apart from Joseph Owiredu, other finalists include Devin Itaagie from Uganda, Kedumetse Liphi from Botswana, Ajena Jafar from Uganda, and Gerald Muema from Kenya.
The Innovation Challenge, which began accepting submissions on November 1, 2023, saw a total of 154 entries from young entrepreneurs and innovators across various African countries. Participants from countries like Angola, Benin, Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and more showcased their innovative projects.
The shortlisted finalists will have the opportunity to present their demo or Minimum Viable Product at the upcoming Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit in Namibia. This platform aims to connect innovative African youth in the travel and tourism sector with funding, partnership, and mentorship opportunities to help bring their projects to the global marketplace.
Notably, Namibian innovators are also part of the competition, with Sarome Natalia Nalooliwa Hamata, Sarah Anghuwo, and Rosalia Laudika emerging as the top three finalists for the 2024 Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge.
The Government of Namibia, in collaboration with Africa Tourism Partners, UN Tourism, BDO, and other partners, will host the 2024 Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit. Scheduled from May 28th to 31st, the Summit will feature distinguished speakers like Teofilus Nghitila from Namibia, Samiya Abdulkadir Godu from Ethiopia, and Evah Mosetlhane from Botswana.
Moreover, one of the main attractions of Namibia, Sossusvlei desert, known for its stunning red dunes and unique landscape, will captivate participants and visitors alike. Registration for both physical and virtual participation in the event is ongoing through the website www.youthtourismsummit.com.
