Cotonou, Benin, has been selected to host the 2027 Black Travel Summit. Organizers announced the decision on 17 October 2026 during the Black Travel Awards gala held in Milwaukee, USA. The selection of Cotonou marks the first time the summit will take place in the country. Bénin Tourisme officials confirmed the venue as part of a broader push to increase international visitor numbers. The event aims to bring together travel professionals and enthusiasts to discuss industry trends and promote travel within the African diaspora. Planning for the 2027 summit will continue throughout the coming year as the host city prepares for the arrival of global delegates.
History of the Summit
Organizers established the Black Travel Summit in 2019 within the United States. Anita Moreau, the summit's founder and chief executive officer, stated: "Nous avons commencé en 2019 comme une vision pour relier notre communauté à travers la joie du voyage. Maintenant, nous portons cette vision au-delà des océans."
The organization held its first international edition in November 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Florian Valmy-Devillers, a member of the organization's initial advisory board, remarked: "Pour la première fois en dehors des États-Unis, nous réunissons une communauté mondiale pour montrer comment les voyageurs noirs façonnent la culture, font bouger les marchés et inspirent le changement."
Milwaukee hosted the 2026 Black Travel Summit from 15 October to 18 October 2026. This gathering served as the immediate predecessor to the selection of Cotonou for the 2027 event.
Strategic Tourism Development Goals
Bénin has engaged in active tourism promotion as an economic tool since 2016. Government authorities identified the sector as a primary area for state investment to generate revenue and employment. Bénin Tourisme continues to manage these initiatives, which involve upgrading infrastructure and marketing the country to international travelers. The selection of Cotonou as the host for the 2027 Black Travel Summit aligns with these existing governmental objectives. By hosting global delegates, the administration aims to expand the reach of local hospitality services and solidify the national position within the international travel industry. These efforts reflect a decade-long focus on transforming the country into a destination for visitors from across the African diaspora and beyond.