Khartoum: The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Information and Tourism, Dr. Graham Abdel-Gadir, affirmed that Sudan is on the threshold of a major transformation in its tourism economy and is entering a stage of national recovery after more than two years of plundering and vandalization caused by the rebel Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia. Speaking at a celebration organized in the Red Sea State by the Ministry in cooperation with the Higher Council for Environment, Tourism and Investment to mark World Tourism Day under the slogan ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation’, Dr. Graham stressed that, despite the systematic devastation of museums and archaeological sites, all looted antiquities will be restored through the will of the Sudanese people, who remain deeply committed to their heritage and civilization.
According to Sudan News Agency, he noted that Sudan is well-positioned to become a leading global tourism destination, citing its strategic location as a hub for international routes, nine natural reserves with diverse environments, rich cultural variety, and renowned hospitality-all of which make the country a ‘treasure and a meeting point for world tourism.’ Dr. Graham underscored the importance of comprehensive planning, partnership with the private sector and state institutions, and mobilization of all available capacities to transform tourism into a revenue-generating industry. He also called for training and qualifying the workforce, particularly in marketing, easing procedures that hinder tourism activity, and improving infrastructure to attract investment and facilitate access to tourism areas.
He further emphasized tourism’s role in promoting national unity, reconciliation, and serving as a strong pillar of the national economy. For her part, Samia Oshiek, Chairperson of the Higher Council for Environment and Tourism in the Red Sea State, said that while World Tourism Day is celebrated globally, this year’s commemoration in Sudan carries special significance as it reflects a phase of recovery and the removal of threats that once jeopardized the country’s unity and sovereignty.
She praised the Armed Forces, joint forces, intelligence service, and popular mobilization for their sacrifices and victories in the Battle of Dignity. She also highlighted the Red Sea area’s unique natural attractions and archaeological heritage, stressing the need to restore and utilize them for tourism development. Samia Oshiek affirmed that the coming stage will witness full recovery from the impacts of war, with tourism playing a key role in supporting the national economy, contributing to reconstruction, and strengthening social cohesion. She expressed confidence in Sudan’s ability to recover and overcome the crisis through the unity and resilience of its people and their support for the Armed Forces.
During the event, honors were extended to the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Information and Tourism, the Chairperson of the Higher Council for Environment and Tourism, the Director of the Sea Ports Corporation, UNESCO Office, the Mayor of Suakin, the Director of the State Library, along with several native administration leaderships, executive officials, and community figures.