During the International Tourism Fair, which is taking place in Maputo, the government presented the MICE (Metings, Incentives, Conferences and Events) strategy for the second time, emphasising the urgent need to strengthen investment in the tourism sector. Despite the global figure of approximately 23 million meticais in tourism, Africa only registered 8 million meticais. Over five years, 13,255 investment events have been organised globally, while Africa has registered 415 tourism events.
This mismatch is directly reflected in the contribution to Southern Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Although global events account for 330 million, Mozambique only accounts for 5% of this figure in its GDP. Faced with this disparity, the MICE strategy has emerged as a crucial initiative to boost, expand and revitalise the country’s tourism sector.
The effective implementation of the MICE strategy is considered a fundamental step towards attracting more events, conferences and investments, not only to boost tourism, but also to contribute to Mozambique’s sustainable economic growth. The country is firmly seeking to position itself as a privileged destination for international events, recognising the potential of the MICE sector as a catalyst for economic development.
Analysts emphasise that diversifying tourism efforts through the MICE strategy will not only increase Mozambique’s visibility as an events destination, but will also foster business opportunities and international partnerships. The expectation is that the country will become an attractive centre for congresses, conferences and incentives, contributing not only to the tourism sector, but also to the economy as a whole.
By positioning the MICE strategy as a key piece in promoting international tourism in Mozambique, the country aims not only to overcome the current gaps, but also to consolidate its presence as a dynamic and vibrant destination for the most relevant events on the global stage.
