Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, who is also a United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) ambassador has assisted Cote d’Ivoire, his country of origin, sign MOUs for a total of $15 billion in commitments to back the country’s tourism projects.
The now retired footballer was said to be a key player in a team of top Ivorian business and political leaders, who took a roadshow to Dubai and Hamburg to promote the West African country’s tourist economy, according to Travel Daily News International.
The funding commitments ranged from hotels, to resorts and coastline development.
“It’s a blank page that the industry can write on in the most exciting way. Much has to be built – hotels alongside cultural centres and conference facilities, among other things,” Horwath HTL managing partner Philippe Doizelet was quoted as saying.
“The amazing coastline offers great ‘bleisure’ (a mix of business and leisure) opportunities. Beyond Abidjan; Boulay island, Bassam and Jacqueville are currently the most promising locations.”