AFRICAN TOURISM BOARD PICKS THEOHARIS FOR UN POST

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By MOSES WALUBITA
LUSAKA
Wednesday, 22nd January, 2025

THE African Tourism Board (ATB)has formally announced its endorsement of a Greek national Harry Theoharis for the position of Secretary-General for the United Nations Tourism from 2026 to 2029.

Honourable Theoharis has a Master of Engineering degree in Software Engineering with Honours from the Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine in London, United Kingdom.

He has accumulated a decade (ten years) of experience in senior-level roles in London, engaging in various sectors, including technology, consulting, and finance, while overseeing numerous global initiatives.

Mr. Theoharis said: ‘’I am deeply grateful to the African Tourism Board for their support of my candidacy for UN Tourism. Africa has 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.

He said the endorsement reinforces his 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.’’

This is according to the statement issued from Pretoria, South Africa by Hon. Cuthbert Ncube, Executive Chairman (African Tourism Board) and Hon. Dine Bourima, Vice-President (African Tourism Board).

He said currently, Harry Theoharis is a member of the Hellenic Parliament, representing the ruling party, New Democracy Party.

Before his current role, he served as Deputy Minister of Finance.

As Greece’s Minister of Tourism from July 2019 to August 2021, he effectively managed the significant challenges of COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr. Ncube said Mr. Theoharis’ leadership was characterised by introducing innovative strategies aimed at 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,’’ Mr Ncube said.

He added: ‘’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.

Mr. Theoharis’ 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, the Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has appointed Mr. Theoharis to present his candidacy for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations Tourism.

Mr. Ncube said engagements between the African Tourism Board and Mr. Theoharis have entailed extensive discussions concerning his dedication to Africa in many critical areas, including investment, education and training, climate change, sustainability, and enhancement of Africa’s visibility and market share in tourism.

Mr. Theoharis’ commitment to the African continent, coupled with his efforts to position tourism as a 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.

Mr. Ncube said 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 Mr. Theoharis’ candidacy and will work closely to advance the Greek national’s vision across Africa.

‘’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’’, Mr. Ncube said.

He said 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’’, Mr. Ncube added.