WTM Africa’s Africa Tourism Investment Conference Set to Drive Major Continental Growth

The Delegate Report
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WTM Africa’s Africa Tourism Investment Conference Set to Drive Major Continental Growth

Cape Town, 19 February 2025 – The Africa Tourism Investment Conference (ATIC), a key event of World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025, will take place in Cape Town on 10 April 2025. In partnership with JLL, this highly anticipated conference will bring together industry leaders, investors, and policymakers to accelerate tourism investment across Africa and foster sustainable economic development through strategic cross-border collaboration.

Held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre’s Global Stage, ATIC will serve as a hub for government ministers, private sector leaders, development finance institutions, and international investors to engage in meaningful discussions, networking, and deal-making.

“The ATIC represents a crucial platform for driving investment in African tourism,” says Olivia Gradidge, Marketing Manager at WTM Africa & ILTM Africa. “With the industry’s remarkable resilience and growth potential, we’re creating an environment where meaningful partnerships can flourish, and concrete deals can be struck.”

The conference will feature expert-led panel discussions, success stories from investors and tourism operators, and practical insights into destination development. Unlike traditional forums, ATIC is action-oriented, connecting project owners with investors to transform opportunities into tangible results.

Key Features of ATIC 2025:

✅ Private meeting spaces for deal negotiations.
✅ Panel discussions with high-level stakeholders.
✅ Networking sessions with top industry professionals.
✅ Access to WTM Africa’s main exhibition floor.
✅ Insights from JLL’s global and African tourism and hospitality expertise.

“Sustainable tourism development and community benefits are at the heart of this year’s programme,” Gradidge adds. “Investors are increasingly interested in projects that deliver both financial returns and social impact.”

Wayne Godwin CEO of JLL Africa jpg

Wayne Godwin, CEO of JLL Africa, emphasized the importance of tourism as a catalyst for real estate and investment opportunities:

“JLL is excited to partner with WTM Africa for the 2025 Africa Tourism Investment Conference. Our focus on destination building aligns with the event’s goal to link tourism, real estate, and investment.”

Early bird tickets are now available for R1,500 (excluding VAT) per person. Secure your spot at this game-changing event by [clicking here] or visiting our website for more details.

2nd UN Tourism Africa & Americas Summit

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2nd UN Tourism Africa & Americas Summit

The 2nd UN Tourism Africa & Americas Summit is set to take place in Livingstone, Zambia, from April 8 to 10, 2025. Following the success of its inaugural edition in the Dominican Republic, this prestigious event will once again serve as a vital platform for fostering collaboration, investment, and sustainable tourism growth between Africa and the Americas.

Co-organized by UN Tourism and the Ministry of Tourism of Zambia, the summit will gather Ministers of Tourism, senior government officials, and key private sector stakeholders from both regions. Together, they will engage in high-level discussions aimed at enhancing cooperation and unlocking new opportunities for economic advancement through tourism.

This edition of the summit will focus on four key themes:

  • Strengthening Air Connectivity: Addressing challenges and opportunities in improving air routes between Africa and the Americas, making travel more accessible and efficient.
  • Building Resilience: Exploring strategies to ensure the tourism sector can withstand economic shocks, climate change, and global disruptions.
  • Attracting Investment: Showcasing opportunities for investors and encouraging public-private partnerships to drive tourism infrastructure and development.
  • Advancing Education & Skills Development: Promoting capacity-building initiatives to equip tourism professionals with the knowledge and expertise needed for a sustainable future.

By addressing these critical areas, the 2nd UN Tourism Africa & Americas Summit aims to pave the way for stronger regional integration, increased economic opportunities, and a more sustainable and inclusive tourism landscape. The event will serve as a bridge, connecting nations and industries, and ensuring that tourism remains a powerful catalyst for growth and prosperity in both regions.

As the world continues to embrace the revival of international travel, this summit presents an invaluable opportunity to shape the future of tourism in Africa and the Americas. With Livingstone, Zambia—a city rich in natural wonders and cultural heritage—as its backdrop, the 2025 summit promises to be a transformative gathering for industry leaders and policymakers alike.

More African Countries on Board for Meetings Africa 2025

The Delegate Report
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More African Countries on Board for Meetings Africa 2025

Meetings Africa 2025 is set to welcome new African exhibitors, with Chad, Guinea, and Madagascar making their debut at the continent’s premier business events trade show. This brings the total number of African exhibitors to 27.

Taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre from February 24-25, the event provides a platform for African business event professionals to connect, collaborate, and create opportunities.

Princess Grovogui, Sales Manager at Noom Hotel Conakry in Guinea, expressed excitement about their participation:

“As first-time exhibitors, we aim to engage key industry stakeholders, gain insights from experienced destinations, and position Guinea as an emerging MICE player.”

Chad, Guinea, and Madagascar each bring something unique to the industry—from Chad’s emerging conference infrastructure and Guinea’s growing meetings sector to Madagascar’s eco-tourism appeal.

Of the 385 exhibitors, 85 will be newcomers, including innovative tourism and hospitality brands from Eswatini and Zimbabwe.

Tobie Motsa of Mountain View International Hotel in Eswatini shared:

“This is a great opportunity to showcase Eswatini’s cultural heritage, facilities, and warm hospitality.”

Bernadette Veldsman of Pure Africa in Zimbabwe added:

“Meetings Africa is a vital platform to highlight Zimbabwe’s world-class infrastructure and unforgettable experiences. The connections made here will drive growth and innovation in our industry.”

With more African nations joining the event, Meetings Africa 2025 is shaping up to be a game-changer for the continent’s MICE industry.

Key Stakeholders Meet in Mutare to Elevate Manicaland’s Tourism Potential

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Key Stakeholders Meet in Mutare to Elevate Manicaland’s Tourism Potential

In a significant step toward positioning Manicaland as a premier tourism destination, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, convened a high-level meeting in Mutare today. Joined by Minister of State for Manicaland Province, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, and other key stakeholders, the discussions centered on harnessing Manicaland’s rich natural and cultural assets to drive tourism growth and economic development.

This initiative aligns with the government’s devolution agenda, which seeks to empower each province to contribute meaningfully to national tourism expansion. Manicaland, known for its breathtaking Eastern Highlands, pristine Bvumba Mountains, majestic Mtarazi Falls, and the rugged beauty of Chimanimani, is a natural fit for Zimbabwe’s tourism growth strategy. By enhancing infrastructure, promoting investment, and marketing its attractions, the province could see increased visitor numbers and economic benefits.

Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo Comes to Mutare

The highlight of the meeting was the announcement that the prestigious Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo will be hosted in Mutare this year. This marks a significant shift for the event, which has traditionally been held in Bulawayo. The expo is expected to attract global tourism professionals, investors, and travel enthusiasts, creating a platform to showcase Manicaland’s adventure tourism and hospitality potential.

The Future of Manicaland’s Tourism

With its diverse attractions ranging from eco-tourism and hiking trails to cultural heritage and agro-tourism, Manicaland stands to benefit immensely from this renewed focus. The government’s commitment, coupled with private sector engagement, could transform the province into a major travel hub.

Will Manicaland emerge as Zimbabwe’s next tourism powerhouse? The upcoming expo will be a defining moment in shaping its future. Stay tuned for more updates on how this landmark event unfolds.

African Sun Offloads Great Zimbabwe Hotel: What’s Next for the Landmark Property?

Tourism Growth Watch
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African Sun Offloads Great Zimbabwe Hotel: What’s Next for the Landmark Property?

Zimbabwe’s hospitality landscape is shifting. African Sun Limited, a leading player in the industry, has officially sold the historic Great Zimbabwe Hotel to Mewame Family Trust for US$4.2 million. But beyond the transaction, what does this mean for tourism in Masvingo and the future of the hotel itself?

The sale follows African Sun’s March 2024 announcement to divest select properties in a bid to focus on its core assets. The final agreement, reached on January 28, 2025, includes:
🔹 Mundells Plot A (20.4 hectares) – Sold for US$3.2 million
🔹 The hotel business and assets – Acquired for US$1 million

With full payment, due diligence, and regulatory approvals set for completion by April 1, 2025, this marks a major shift for one of Zimbabwe’s key heritage hotels.

Mewame Family Trust, an emerging player in tourism and real estate, is expanding its hospitality footprint. This acquisition signals an ambition to revitalize the property and tap into the growing cultural tourism market at Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With a portfolio of ten hotels across Zimbabwe, African Sun is reinvesting in its prime properties. The disposal of non-core assets aligns with a broader strategy to enhance guest experiences at flagship locations.

Will Mewame Family Trust preserve the legacy of Great Zimbabwe Hotel while elevating it to modern hospitality standards? Share your thoughts—what should the future of this landmark hotel look like?

Strong African and Indian Ocean Presence at ITB Berlin 2025

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Strong African and Indian Ocean Presence at ITB Berlin 2025

ITB Berlin 2025, the world’s leading travel trade show, is set to highlight Africa and the Indian Ocean’s growing influence in global tourism. Taking place from March 4-6, this year’s event revolves around the theme “The Power of Transition Lives Here”, focusing on sustainability, digitalization, and workforce development—key topics shaping the future of African tourism.

Africa’s Strong Presence at ITB Berlin 2025

With a record number of exhibitors from 165 countries, Africa will have a strong representation, showcasing its diverse travel offerings and investment potential. South Africa and Mauritius lead as some of the largest exhibitors, while Namibia, Madagascar, Ethiopia, and Mozambique have expanded their displays. Kenya, Uganda, Sierra Leone, and Tanzania will feature larger stands, while Djibouti will make its ITB Berlin debut, positioning itself as a new destination to watch.

The Indian Ocean islands, including the Maldives and Comoros, will also have a strong presence, emphasizing their luxury, nature, and adventure tourism appeal.

What to Expect at ITB Berlin 2025

✅ Tourism Trends & Industry Insights: The ITB Transition Labs and the ITB Travel & Tourism Report will offer expert analysis on the latest travel industry developments.
✅ Sustainable Tourism Initiatives: A dedicated section for responsible tourism will showcase African destinations committed to eco-friendly practices.
✅ Technology & Innovation: Travel tech solutions will take center stage, addressing the future of digital tourism in Africa.

Driving Investment & Global Partnerships

As demand for African travel rises, ITB Berlin presents an opportunity to attract investors, forge international partnerships, and enhance Africa’s global visibility in the tourism sector.

Stay ahead of Africa’s biggest tourism developments—subscribe for exclusive updates on ITB Berlin 2025!

African Union Pushes for Visa-Free Travel to Boost Regional Integration

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African Union Pushes for Visa-Free Travel to Boost Regional Integration

The African Union (AU) is intensifying its efforts to eliminate visa restrictions across Africa, promoting seamless movement as a driver for economic growth and regional integration. During the 38th AU Summit, leaders and policymakers called for urgent action to dismantle travel barriers that continue to obstruct intra-African trade, labor mobility, and innovation.

The African Union Commission (AUC) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) jointly emphasized the need for visa liberalization, highlighting that over 50% of African nations still require visas for most African travellers. Despite success stories from countries like Rwanda, The Gambia, Seychelles, and Ghana, progress remains slow.

To accelerate change, the AU and AfDB have launched the 2025 Visa-Free Roadshow, an initiative aimed at engaging policymakers, businesses, and civil society in advocating for open borders. Leaders are being urged to turn policy commitments into action, aligning free movement with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Agenda 2063.

With mounting pressure for reform, the AU’s push for visa-free travel signals a bold step towards a united, economically vibrant Africa where movement fuels innovation, trade, and regional cooperation.

Rome to Host Africa-Europe Tourism Exchange Forum 2025

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Rome to Host Africa-Europe Tourism Exchange Forum 2025

Tourism leaders from Africa and Europe will gather in Rome for the Africa-Europe Tourism Exchange Forum (AETEF) 2025, aimed at strengthening cross-continental collaboration. Taking place from March 27-29 at The Hive Hotel, the event will focus on sustainable tourism, investment, and cultural exchange under the theme “Bridging Africa and Europe through Tourism Exchanges.”

A Platform for Growth & Investment

Organised by Globe Trotters Limited and Kalo Africa Media in partnership with the African Tourism Board, AETEF 2025 will facilitate business networking, strategic partnerships, and knowledge sharing.

Key objectives include:
✔ Strengthening Africa-Europe tourism partnerships.
✔ Facilitating B2B networking and industry collaboration.
✔ Showcasing cultural heritage through exhibitions.
✔ Discussing tourism challenges in expert-led sessions.
✔ Recognising industry excellence at the Gala & Awards Night.

What to Expect

The three-day event will feature conferences, panel discussions, cultural showcases, and guided tours of Rome. Exhibitions will highlight tourism destinations and investment opportunities.

Registration Deadline: January 31, 2025
Register at www.aetef.com/registration

AETEF 2025 will unlock opportunities and strengthen networks, shaping a more integrated and sustainable tourism industry.

Seychelles Unveils Bold 2025 Tourism Vision in SA

Destination Insider
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Seychelles Unveils Bold 2025 Tourism Vision in SA

Johannesburg, South Africa – Tourism Seychelles has outlined its dynamic vision for 2025 at a high-profile media briefing in Johannesburg, emphasizing new developments aimed at enhancing the archipelago’s tourism sector.

The exclusive breakfast session, held at Proud Mary Modern Eatery + Wine Bar in Rosebank, brought together leading South African media representatives for an in-depth discussion on Seychelles’ upcoming events and strategic initiatives.

Major Developments in Seychelles Tourism

During the engagement, Principal Secretary Sherin Francis introduced several key projects, including:

  • The launch of new luxury hotel developments and boutique properties catering to high-end travellers.
  • Expansion of small homegrown tourism enterprises, emphasizing sustainable and authentic experiences.
  • The introduction of the Seychelles Tourism Grading Programme, aimed at maintaining high accommodation standards.

Sporting Events and Cultural Celebrations

Seychelles is set to host several major sporting events in 2025, reinforcing its position as a premier sports tourism destination:

  • FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, a global sporting spectacle drawing international teams and fans.
  • Seychelles Sailing Challenge, showcasing the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean.
  • Seychelles Nature Trail, offering adventure enthusiasts an immersive eco-tourism experience.

The briefing also highlighted the upcoming 40th Festival Kreol in October 2025, a major cultural celebration that continues to attract international visitors.

Strengthening South Africa-Seychelles Tourism Ties

Mrs. Francis underscored the importance of South Africa as a key source market, stating:

“Our engagement with the South African media market is crucial as we continue to strengthen our presence in this region. The developments and events planned for 2025 will create unique travel experiences while fostering cultural and economic exchange.”

Tourism Seychelles aims to leverage these initiatives to drive visitor growth and position the country as a top-tier destination for both leisure and business travellers, particularly from South Africa.

UN Tourism Opens 2025 Search for Best Rural Destinations

Tourism Growth Watch
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UN Tourism Opens 2025 Search for Best Rural Destinations

Celebrating Rural Tourism & Sustainable Growth
UN Tourism has launched the 2025 Best Tourism Villages initiative, spotlighting rural destinations that excel in sustainability, cultural preservation, and community development. Since 2021, the program has recognized 254 villages across nearly 60 countries, fostering global tourism excellence.

Application & Selection Process
✔ Tourism authorities from UN Tourism member states can submit up to eight candidate villages.
✔ Applications close on May 19, with winners announced in Q3 2025.
✔ An expert advisory board evaluates entries based on nine key criteria, including economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

A Platform for Global Recognition & Support
The initiative includes:

  • Best Tourism Villages Recognition – Celebrating top-performing villages.
  • Upgrade Programme – Helping near-qualifiers meet recognition standards.
  • Best Tourism Villages Network – Connecting villages for collaboration & knowledge sharing.

By fostering resilience, innovation, and responsible tourism, UN Tourism continues to empower rural destinations worldwide.

Could an African village make the 2025 list? Applications are open!

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