Minister of Handicrafts and Tourism, Aghaichata Guichene Atta, has urged Nigeriens to support the growth of the country’s critical tourism and handicrafts sectors.
During recent visits to key facilities under her ministry’s jurisdiction, including the International Women’s Crafts Fair (SAFEM), the Gaweye Hotel, and the Niger Tourism Promotion Agency (APTN), Minister Atta identified several challenges hindering the development of these sectors.
At SAFEM, the Minister pledged to address issues such as inadequate infrastructure, financial constraints, and logistical challenges associated with the upcoming 13th edition of the fair.
The event which held from December 1-10, aims to empower Nigerien women artisans by showcasing their skills and products.
Minister Aghaichata Guichene Atta also inspected the ongoing renovation of the historic Gaweye Hotel in Niamey. Despite significant progress, challenges related to environmental, economic, and technical factors have slowed the project.
The Minister assured stakeholders that solutions would be implemented to expedite the renovation process.
At APTN, the Minister was briefed on the construction of a training center for tourism and hospitality professionals. The project has been delayed due to financial constraints. Minister Atta expressed her commitment to securing necessary funding to complete the center.
The Minister concluded her visits by emphasizing the need for national unity and collective effort to unlock Niger’s tourism and handicrafts potential. Aghaichata Guichene Atta reiterated her dedication to providing timely solutions to the challenges faced by these sectors.
