WAEN Launches Regional Ecotourism Certification Programme
August 03, 2026
The West African Eco Tourism Network (WAEN) has officially launched its Regional Ecotourism Certification Programme — a landmark initiative to standardise and elevate ecotourism practices across West Africa's 16 member nations.
The certification programme, developed in partnership with international ecotourism standards bodies, provides a framework covering environmental sustainability, community benefit, cultural respect and guest experience quality. Operators who achieve certification will gain access to priority listing on WAEN's digital platforms and promotional support targeting international eco-conscious travellers.
"This certification represents our commitment to ensuring West Africa ecotourism is world-class," said the WAEN Secretariat. "We want operators across the region to have a credible, recognised benchmark to aspire to."
Applications for the inaugural cohort are now open through the WATO membership portal.