Agri-Tourism Takes Root in Karongi: A Roundtable Discussion
On August 27, 2024, IPRC Karongi hosted a pivotal roundtable discussion to explore the potential of agri-tourism in the region. This event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from financial institutions, government agencies, academia, the private sector, and international organisations.
The roundtable was centered around the STIC concept in agri-tourism, an innovative approach developed under the Nuffic Orange Knowledge SEAD West project under the lead of Maastricht School of Management (MSM). The STIC, a Service Training and Innovation Centre, provides a platform for practical learning, research, and entrepreneurship in the agri-tourism sector.
Key Takeaways from the Roundtable:
- Collaboration is Key: Participants emphasized the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to create a vibrant ecosystem for agri-tourism.
- Education and Training: A strong focus was placed on the need for practical education and training to equip individuals with the skills necessary for success in the sector.
- Market Access and Job Creation: Participants discussed strategies to improve market access for agri-tourism products and create sustainable job opportunities.
- Sustainability Focus: The roundtable highlighted the importance of sustainable practices in agri-tourism.
Next Steps:
The roundtable concluded with a commitment to develop a 3-5 year implementation agenda to advance agri-tourism in Karongi. This agenda will focus on addressing key challenges, such as infrastructure development, market linkages, and capacity building.
The success of agri-tourism in Karongi has the potential to contribute significantly to the region's economic growth and development. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices, the community can create a thriving agri-tourism sector that benefits both local residents and visitors alike.
Photos: IPRC Karongi
Orange Knowledge Programme
This project is part of the Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) which is funded by the Netherlands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and managed by Nuffic. For more information click here.
MSM's Expert Centre on Emerging Economies
This institutional collaboration project is part of MSM's Expert Centre on Emerging Economies. The department is an expert centre on local economic development in emerging and developing markets. We capacitate managers and professionals from government, private sector, NGOs, and post-secondary education in Africa, Asia, Middle East, and Latin America. We offer consultancy and customized training programs, and we manage complex projects in key sectors, e.g. water, agriculture and health. For more information click here.
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