THE return of Chinese tourists to Africa and a full resumption of operations on international routes by African airlines are the latest indicators of a rebounding tourism industry, badly hit by the COVID-19 pandemic two years ago. China has picked three African countries- Egypt, Kenya and South Africa - among 20 across the globe for piloting outbound group tours, nearly a month after lifting travel restrictions. According to a ministerial notice published on January 20, Chinese travel companies will be allowed to provide travellers with airline and hotel packages to selected countries starting February 6. "From now on, travel agencies…