In addtion to the 8 papers of the SI, we have written a new extensive introduction and conclusion chapters. The introductory chapter outlines what we see as the varieties of sustainability conceptualised in tourism policy and planning strategies in different African countries. In the conclusion chapter, we argue for a reconsideration of what sustainability means for tourism policy and planning in sub-Saharan Africa. We then outline a future research agenda that links tourism policy and planning more intimately to the Sustainable Development Goals .