(Ecofin Agency) - The Ivorian government is taking steps to position its tourism sector at the forefront as the African Cup of Nations approaches. As part of these efforts, the government, through the IT and Startup Development Department (DIDS), has initiated the test phase of its new online tourism information system (SITD).

The ceremony took place a few days ago in Abidjan under the leadership of the Minister of Tourism and Leisure, Siandou Fofana. The initial count in the system encompasses 22,641 participants within the national tourism and leisure network, comprising 19,201 lodging and dining facilities and 3,440 dedicated to leisure activities. The primary aim is to promote the country's tourist destinations by offering accurate data that facilitates better comprehension of local market trends for informed strategic decision-making.

"As our nation gears up to host the CAN focusing on hospitality and innovation, this tool holds significant strategic value. [...] I want to assure you that we are fully conscious of the challenges presented, particularly concerning cybersecurity and data protection within such a platform. Strong technical and organizational measures have been implemented to ensure the security and isolation of all your information," the minister said.

A few years ago, Côte d'Ivoire embarked on a process of revitalizing its tourism sector. Various actions have been taken by the authorities to promote the country as a leading tourist destination in West Africa. In August 2023, a 3-year agreement was signed with Olympique de Marseille to feature the "Sublime Côte d'Ivoire" brand in the club's stadium and on players' jerseys.

During the AfCON, the country will welcome over twenty delegations of footballers, technical and medical teams, and supporters. Hence the a need for the SITD platform to locate travel agencies, restaurants, tourist sites, bars and nightclubs, service stations, hospitals and clinics, etc.