The UN World Tourism Organisation and Microsoft Corporation have announced a partnership to expand information communications technology in the tourism sector of emerging countries.
Focusing on Africa, the partnership will provide technology designed to improve export competitiveness, product quality and support skills.
A portal is being created to help the flow of information in the event of catastrophes affecting tourism.
Bringing together public and sector data, it will help tourism destinations respond more rapidly and effectively in emergencies and help recovery programmes.
It will be used initially to help the industry prepare for a potential avian flu pandemic.
Microsoft will also develop a Portal called Windows on Africa to showcase African tourism, linking to visitor centres, museums, and libraries. Ultimately, it will provide real-time destination specific data via PDAs and mobile devices.
Francesco Frangialli, secretary general of UNWTO, said in the next five years it will also use technology to help improve access for tourists through electronic border clearance and sustainability management at destinations.
By Bev Fearis
