In recognition of its exceptional efforts in positioning The Gambia as one of West Africa’s leading travel destinations, the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) has been honoured as the Tourism Marketing Agency of the Year – West Africa by African Travel Quarterly (ATQ).

The prestigious award was formally presented during the 8th edition of the Accra Weizo Conference, which took place on Friday, 27th June 2025, at the Accra City Hotel in Ghana. The event brings together key stakeholders from across the sub-region, including tourism ministers, director-generals of tourism bodies, tour operators, and travel professionals from countries such as Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Sierra Leone, Ghana, and The Gambia.

According to ATQ, the recognition celebrates GTBoard’s strategic marketing efforts, impactful branding campaigns, and effective partnerships that have significantly elevated The Gambia’s visibility in both the regional and international tourism markets.

“This prestigious recognition is a testament to your outstanding efforts in promoting The Gambia as a must-visit destination and your continuous innovation in tourism marketing across the sub-region,” ATQ stated. “Your strategic campaigns, destination branding, and partnerships have played a vital role in positioning The Gambia as the ‘Smiling Coast of Africa’ and a dynamic hub for leisure, culture, and sustainable tourism.”

GTBoard’s marketing initiatives align seamlessly with Accra Weizo’s objectives, which aim to foster seamless travel and tourism across West Africa. Despite the sub-region’s population of over 400 million and its abundant cultural assets, it continues to face challenges in attracting significant inbound tourism. GTBoard’s leadership in enhancing visibility and promoting intra-African tourism is viewed as critical in shifting this narrative.

“The marketing leadership demonstrated by the Gambia Tourism Board directly aligns with the objectives of Accra Weizo. Your efforts in driving visibility, access, and engagement for intra-African tourism are key to transforming this narrative,” the publication added.

Over the years, Accra Weizo has evolved into a flagship event for travel, hospitality, and aviation stakeholders in the region. It serves as a vital platform for forging partnerships, exploring collaborative solutions, and encouraging travel within the ECOWAS bloc.

Congratulating GTBoard on the achievement, ATQ Publisher Ikechi Uko remarked, “We would be honoured to welcome the Gambia Tourism Board to this year’s edition, celebrate your achievements, and explore further opportunities for regional collaboration and destination development.”

This recognition comes at a time when The Gambia continues to promote itself as a year-round destination, offering enriching experiences in ecotourism, cultural heritage, adventure, and coastal relaxation. Awards like this further underscore GTBoard’s dedication to impactful and sustainable tourism marketing.