“Tourism Is Our Future” — Limbe’s Mayor Calls for Unity, Investment, and Global Visibility
Mayor Ngale hails CITF 2026 as catalyst for coastal tourism growth, declares city “Cameroon in miniature”
Limbe, Cameroon — Dr. Paul Efome Lisombe Ngale, Mayor of Limbe City Council, opened the 5th Cameroon International Tourism Fair (CITF 2026) on Thursday, March 19, with a spirited address that positioned the coastal city as a living showcase of Cameroon’s cultural and natural diversity — and a vital engine for regional tourism development.
Speaking before dignitaries including Minister of Tourism and Leisure Gabriel Mbaïrobe, the Governor of the South West Region, diplomatic envoys, and over 500 exhibitors from across Africa and beyond, the Mayor extended a heartfelt welcome on behalf of Limbe’s residents — whom he described as “peace-loving and ever-ready to host the world.”
A Tribute to Leadership and Vision
The Mayor reserved special praise for Minister Mbaïrobe, commending his “positive vision and tireless work” since assuming leadership of the Ministry of Tourism and Leisure. “More grease to your elbows,” he said, adding a prayer for continued divine guidance as the Minister oversees two major portfolios with “absolute brilliance.”
He also honored Agatha Iyok, CEO of Flora Travel and Tour Company and founder of CITF, for her “resilience and unwavering commitment” in sustaining the fair through five editions.
“Thanks to her vision, Limbe — the Town of Friendship and Opportunities — has become a trusted destination, and our tourism sector has gained global visibility,” he declared.
Limbe: Where Cameroon’s Soul Meets the Sea
Dr. Ngale reaffirmed Limbe’s identity as “Cameroon in miniature” — a place where visitors experience the nation’s full spectrum of landscapes, heritage, and hospitality within a single coastal setting.
He highlighted key attractions: the historic Limbe Botanic Garden (host venue), the Limbe Wildlife Centre, the Bimbia Slave Trade Village, and the city’s growing network of hotels, restaurants, and sports infrastructure — including the iconic football stadium.
“This is not just a fair — it’s a marketplace of possibilities,” he said. “Here, tourism professionals meet investors, buyers, and global travelers. It’s the most trusted stage to present our assets to the world — and the Limbe City Council will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with organizers to ensure its growth.”
A Call To Action: “Uncovering Nature’s Treasures”
Closing his remarks, the Mayor urged participants to leverage the fair’s theme — “Tourism, Culture and Trade Synergies: Uncovering Nature’s Treasures for Economic Growth” — to drive tangible business outcomes.
He encouraged exhibitors to maximize networking, showcase local offerings, and align their strategies with sustainable development goals.
“I invite you all to make the most of this platform — not just to sell, but to build lasting partnerships that elevate our shared future,” he said.
He concluded with a trio of rallying cries: “Long live the Cameroon International Tourism Fair! Long live the City of Limbe! Long live the Ministry of Tourism and Leisure — and long live the Republic of Cameroon under the wise leadership of His Excellency President Paul Biya.”
