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ISSUE 011 | January-February 2020 Edition Travel and Tourism Magazine

celebrates four decades of travel shows and industry success

FITUR meets , a new tool for discovering Africa’s tourism offering pg. 9

ISSN 2550-3405 @VoyagesAfriq

Welcome Message by Mr Zurab Pololikashvili, UNWTO Secretary- General on the occasion of the 40th FITUR International Tourism Fair

2020 will mark the beginning of a that African member states are taking UNWTO is fully committed to work consolidation process of the UNWTO in order to drive the agenda forward. with the African Member States to Agenda for Africa 2030-tourism for build upon these achievements inclusive growth. Looking back, I am This year for the first time African and advance steadily to fully make confident that the approval of this Member States will have the this strategic agenda a reality with blueprint endorsed by all member opportunity to showcase their many tangible results. Going forward we states at the 23rd UNWTO General attributes under one pavilion during will focus on other priorities such as Assembly in September 2019 will FITUR´s 40th Edition from 22 to 26 brand destination management to serve as a key driver of economic January 2020. In addition, the 11th promote positive stories about Africa, transformation and sustainable edition of the Tourism Investment and youth and technology to harness the development in Africa. Business Forum in Africa (INVESTOUR) human capital of the continent and scheduled on 23 January and to promote African gastronomy to The series of regional activities and organized jointly with Casa Africa the world. Sustainability, curbing the initiatives implemented jointly with and IFEMA, in collaboration with Côte impact of tourism on climate change UNWTO in 2019 regarding travel d’Ivoire, will allow African Tourism through environmental preservation facilitation, women empowerment, Ministers and the public/private and conservation of flora and fauna tourism strategies, statistics and sector stakeholders to address issues for millions of host communities will human resources development related to rural tourism development, also have our full attention towards clearly underline the importance, gastronomy and creative industries. the realization of the UN 2030 Agenda sense of ownership and leading role for Sustainable Development.

VOYAGESAFRIQ 1 @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq

Travel and Tourism Magazine ISSUE 011 | January - February 2020 Edition Editorial Team EDITORIAL Investment promotion and public should be commended for the The working paper goes on to explain to accommodate entrepreneurial Ben Ohene-Ayeh roundtable conference in Dubai that 80% (67 million) of tourists innovations to attract more travelers Consulting Editor private partnerships are central to in 2019 to attract investors to the to sub-Saharan Africa visit to view to their countries. Policymakers tourism sector to the West African wildlife, and the number of those should also improve governance Kojo Bentum-Williams Africa’s tourism growth. country. Ghana government ‘s launch visitors is set to double to 134 million with better-coordinated effort across Managing Editor of the beyond the return initiative by 2030, generating $260 billion. agencies to simplify the regulations The growth of tourism in Africa at governance, the structure to is also commendable as it seeks to Tourism already drives 8.5% of Africa’s and remove barriers to tourism Samuel Obeng-Appah the start of the current decade is attract the millions from the encourage Diasporans to consider GDP and provides 24 million jobs. In development to attract investors, and Content Editor expected to double. The potential corporate world ought to be put in investments in tourism as the addition: promote touristic destinations. of the sector on the continent is still place firmly Ghanaian economy as a whole. Brookings quote that “The tourism Given the above, it is heart warming to Contributing Writers hugely unexplored and therefore offers the best low hanging fruit It is commonplace that Most African According to a working paper industry offers many opportunities read that the Investment promotion is Prof Wolfgang Thome countries lack basic infrastructure published by Space for Giants and to invest in Africa’s rich local part of the ten point agenda for Africa Marian Ansah option for managers of economies to work hard towards it. Tourism a well as capacity (both human Conservation Capital bringing private communities, generate economic and member states are encouraged to Jason Amon and material) to deliver. So as sector capital to under-funded activity, and create employment open up their economies to investors Jillian Blackbeard as one of the primary drivers of economic growth and job creation tourists surge on the continent, protected areas will allow these opportunities for women and young in the tourism sector. This year UNWTO in emerging economies needs the urgent need for world- areas to capitalise on surging interest people. By 2030, consumer spending along with partners IFEMA, and CASA Administration/Marketing class accommodation facilities, in nature-based non-consumptive in hospitality and recreation in Africa Africa will be holding the 11th edition Jennifer Nyavor capital injection to realize its full potential. restaurants, transportation and tourism. The resultant increase in is projected to reach about $261.77 of the Investment Forum (FITUR) to Glaou Eddie Fortune other ancillary amenities become revenue and driving of sustainable billion. In order to capitalize on encourage investments in the tourism Symphorien Kouabile Experts’ predict that African clean. local and national development the tourism potential, policy and sector on the African continent. Michel Kouassi countries could increase tourism The high demand for skilled labor would occur without draining state business, leaders should work hand- earnings from protected areas by finances. in-hand to prioritize investments Photo Credit between four and 11 times in the also requires the establishment of Alex Tackie coming decade. hospitality institutions to fill the Franck Kra void. Correspondence: Copyright subsists in all published in this magazine. Any reproduction or UNWTO One area central to this goal will Investors need incentives to adaptation, in whole or in part, without written permission of the publishers is Tourism Board be investments in the sector. Voyages Afriq Travel Magazine encourage them to give of their Office Location strictly prohibited and is an act of copyright infringement which may in certain Prince Charles Affum From infrastructure to human best. Therefore allurements such as circumstances, constitute a criminal offence. The paper used for this production is a Michel Kouadio Kouassi resource development, technical Accra Tourist Information Centre tax holidays and other motivational recyclable and renewable product. It has been produced using wood sourced from FITUR ability and marketing will require Off Liberation Road, Accra – Ghana policies should be put in place sustainably managed forests and elemental or total chlorine free bleached pulp. Adaye Kessie substantial capital infusion to Ghana Office line: +233 30 397 2764 realize the viability of the sector. to propel targeted investors to Limpopo Tourism Agency [email protected] Again Government institutions respond positively. That will fill the Publisher must encourage private/ public deficit in infrastructure and other UK Office line: +44 744 849 4933 provisions such as road, air and partnerships to secure the France Office VoyagesAfriq VoyagesAfriq VoyagesAfriq VoyagesAfriq water transport not forgetting the Voyages Afriq necessary investments inflows into 6 Impasse Robert Labarre 49300 the sector. simplification of visa requirements Media Ltd. among others. Cholet - France Copyright NMC No. We at VoyagesAfriq believe that as +33 753 082 350 Voyages Afriq Media NMC/C.I39/17/3036. is the practice with all corporate The Government of Cote d’ivoire Ltd. Africa's leading Travel and Toursim Magazine e : [email protected] w : www. voyagesafriq.com 2 VOYAGESAFRIQ VOYAGESAFRIQ 3 @VoyagesAfriq DEPENDABILITY MEANS CONSISTENTLY DELIVERING IN THIS ISSUE UNWTO Tourism Online Ethiopian Group CEO ON OUR PROMISE 15 Academy open to all 27 Named ‘Airline Executive of the Year’ by CAPA Preparations In Full Swing As Gears Up 24th Ethiopian celebrates 20th UNWTO General Assembly 27 Anniversary of ShebaMiles in Style FITUR celebrates four Air commences decades of travel shows and 6 28 Tel Aviv flight industry success Africa World Airlines to launch services to Abidjan next year Domestic routes Ethiopian Airlines COO Experts Forecast: African 16 talks 2019, ongoing 29 Tourism Priorities for 2020 With over 300 projects and future plans Malawi receives 17 black weekly flights; rhinos from 11th Investour Business 35 making traveling Conference in Madrid 8 Inks Three-Year more convenient. FITUR meets Africa, a new 36 Tourism Promotion Deal Accra (Hub) Kumasi 9 tool for discovering Africa’s With PSG tourism offering Suspended CEO of SAT cleared Ghana Launches “Beyond of any wrongdoing and set to 19 The Return” Initiative return after festive season

Tamale Takoradi Wa First UNWTO Regional Regional routes 13 Congress on Women Kenya releases Tourism Empowerment celebrates Marriott International inks a 20 Performance Report for 39 deal with Landmark Sabbour women’s contribution to 2019 tourism growth in Africa to open a W Hotel in Cairo The Seychelles Island aims 21 at Africa's leisure and offer Visa on Arrival corporate market with its to African travellers Exotic offerings

Lagos Abuja Monrovia ONOMO Hotels acquires 22 controlling stake in BON Hotels

Innovation and Rural 14 Development Takes Center Ghana Tourism Authority 4 Domestic destinations Stage For Ministers’ Summit 42 set for Vakantiebuers & 5 Regional destinations at World Travel Market FITUR Travel Shows Freetown Abidjan (coming soon) Rwanda To Host 2020 excites UEFA 26 Africa Tourism Leadership 43 President Forum & Awards

Connect with us @flyafricaworld Touching Africa, touching the world! www.flyafricaworld.com VOYAGESAFRIQ 5 @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq FITUR celebrates four decades of travel shows and industry success he Capital of Spain, Madrid will once again open its doors to South Korea, FITUR 2020 partner over 50,000 travel and tourism professionals during the 40th country Tanniversary of the FITUR International Tourism Fair in IFEMA, South Korea is this year's FITUR a suburb of Madrid. From 22 to 26 January 2020, the halls of IFEMA Partner Country. This destination has will be the epicenter of tourism activities with more dynamic and experienced an important increase innovative programs to celebrate four decades of excellence at the in the number of foreign visitors; in world’s third biggest tourism and travel show. 2018 it received 15.3 million tourists, 15.1% more than in the previous • Group photo of Tourism Ministers with King of Spain, Felipe VI at FITUR 2019 Sustainability, Technology and capability as a factor in tourism year. It is also increasingly attractive Specialisation will continue to be the competitiveness. FITUR TALENT will to Spaniards, as last year it received main traction of FITUR 2020, in addition again have an exhibition area which 27,314 Spanish visitors, 17.2% more to the fair’s higher representation and will analyse, (through conferences, than in 2017. internationalisation, in alignment workshops and meetings) very with the positive data on the tourism innovative and dynamic proposals; FITUR NEXT industry. Everything point to FITUR it will also look at perspective and The FITUR NEXT Observatory, the continuing its successful and upward strategy of tourism, management FITUR platform dedicated to detecting trajectory, as shown by the figures companies and talent hunting as well good practises in tourism with of the last edition, which brought as training. positive effects that can be replicated, together 10,400 participating will focus its research on how tourism companies, with 253,000 attendees. can contribute to local economic development. This is one of the challenges that the Observatory, after analysing hundreds of good practises throughout the world, has identified as key to enabling tourism boost its positive effects. • A photo of the UNWTO Tourism Start Competition during FITUR 2019 • A cross section of the global media that covered FITUR 2019 FITUR will continue focusing on specialisation and on the growth of some of the recently-introduced sections, such as FITUR CINE and FITUR FESTIVALS and it will again offer its consolidated monographic areas, such as FITUR GAY (LGBT +) and FITUR HEALTH, as well as the sections FITURTECHY and FITUR KNOW HOW, where technology is shown as an essential tool for the growth of • King of Spain, Felipe VI (first from right) arriving at the opening of FITUR 2019 with UNWTO Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvili (middle) tourism and for progress towards the smart tourism concept. Promoting the agenda of B2B meetings is one of the key objectives of this edition of FITUR, both regarding the general programme, FITUR B2B Match, • A scene from the networking session at FITUR 2019 and the programme specialising in meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions and business travel, FITUR MICE, (22 and 23 January) will bring together 100 representatives of the offer for meetings with 120 qualified procurement officers from around the world. This year will also see the introduction of the monographic area FITUR TALENT, which will focus on people's • A view from the FITUR 2019 exhibition stands talent, skills and professional

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11th Business Conference in Madrid, Spain FITUR meets Africa, a new tool for discovering Africa’s tourism offering he structure of this important event is organized in two sessions: creative industries FITUR, the International Tourism Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Equatorial visibility at the Fair. FITUR will once Fair, organised by IFEMA and taking Guinea; Kenya; Madagascar; Mali; again become, as it does every year, One session is devoted to round tables and the other session 2. Project Proposal Presentations : place at Feria de Madrid from 22 to 26 Mauritania; ; Morocco; an important tourism reference for consists of project proposal presentations. This constitutes January 2020, will have an innovative Mozambique; ; ; African countries T Through this platform, it aims to a strategic platform that puts African tourism project leaders and platform to boost Africa's presence at Seychelles; Sierra Leone; South Africa; support in the realization of these potential international partners in direct contact with one another. the Fair. This is FITUR MEET AFRICA, Sudan; Tanzania, United Republic of The Forum for Investment and Tourism projects by connecting project leaders a tool to schedule meetings that will Tanzania; ; ; ; Business in Africa (INVESTOUR), which 1. The Round Table session, centered through sustainable tourism practices from Africa with collaborators and promote knowledge of the tourism and Zimbabwe. FITUR organizes jointly with the World around the following topics: international investors. Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and Session II: Promoting Africa’s cultural offer of the African continent and the How to participate in MEET AFRICA Casa África will be holding its eleventh Session I: Fostering rural development tourism through gastronomy and generation of business alliances with edition in 2020 and will take place industry professionals who will meet Exhibitors or co-exhibitors from at FITUR. on Thursday 23 January, within the the Africa area in Hall 1, as well as framework of FITUR. Through FITUR MEET AFRICA, professionals, whether visitors or exhibitors in the Africa area, which exhibitors participating in another The main objective of INVESTOUR will occupy Pavilion 1 on the FITUR area, must register and explain is the promotion of sustainable fairgrounds, unveil their tourism their supply and demand profile. From development in Africa, favouring at offer, while professionals interested December 16, 2019, all registrants the same time the conversations in Africa will be able to indicate their received e-mails with the user name on investment and business demand profile. In this way, a direct and password to access the FITUR opportunities on the continent. The communication will be established MEET AFRICA private area, where they structure of this important event between the destination and the were to call the meetings to request is divided into two sessions: one potential investors that will allow confirmation from other parties; the dedicated to the celebration of a them to schedule meetings in their confirmed meetings were to configure series of round tables and another own stands during the celebration of an agenda of meetings to be held at in which various investment projects FITUR. the stands themselves. are presented. Thus, the Forum is configured as a strategic platform In this edition, FITUR will count INVESTOUR, Tourism Investment for African entities to present their with the participation of 31 African reference for Africa tourism projects. The round tables countries: ; ; Cape FITUR MEET AFRICA is part of the will focus on rural tourism and Verde; ; Congo, Democratic initiatives developed by FITUR to cultural tourism through gastronomy Republic of Congo; Cote d’ivoire; enhance Africa's participation and and creative industries. ; ; Gambia; Ghana;

• African Tourism Ministers in a group photo with UNWTO Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvili at INVESTOUR 2019

• Family photo of Investour 2019

• South Africa’s exhibition stand at FITUR 2019

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mainstreaming gender considerations across the tourism sector is extremely important,” he stated. Key events that took alongside the two-day event were a Masterclass on Innovation in Tourism which was presented by UNWTO in partnership with IE Business School and Wakalua and facilitated by Natalia Bayona, the Organisation’s Senior Expert on Innovation and Digital Transformation. The second meeting of the UNWTO Leadership Taskforce for Women Empowerment in Africa was held where the Action Plan of the second Global Report on Women in Tourism which was launched at the opening • Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia day was endorsed. Vice President of the Republic of Ghana Another highlight of the Congress was These measures include: The launch First UNWTO Regional Congress on Women of the E-visa regime in the year 2020, the introduction of a Universal QR Empowerment celebrates women’s contribution code to enabling the Ghanaian economy to become more cashless; to tourism growth in Africa The passage of the Creative Arts Bill (pending parliamentary approval) The first ever United Nations World "Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, women in the tourism sector in Africa. which will make provision for the Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) this theme in my opinion validates establishment of the Creative Arts Regional Congress on Women the important facts and issues Pololikashvili stated that the “UNWTO Fund to give financial support to the Empowerment in the Tourism Sector surrounding women in tourism and is firmly committed to breaking down Creative Arts, Tourism and Culture - Focus on Africa got underway in reflects a symbiotic relationship the barriers women face in the tourism Sector in Ghana. Accra on Monday, November 25, 2019 between women entrepreneurs and sector so that tourism may stay at the Bawumia opined that it was at an event that assembled women women in tourism and by extension, forefront of gender equality efforts imperative that women are propped practitioners in the tourism industry development. here in Africa and across the world. up in the tourism sector if Africa is to from Africa and beyond to deliberate In her address, the Regional Director make a headway in the attainment of on the important role women play in “ We need to raise awareness about for UN Women in Central and West the SDGs through tourism. shaping the continent’s development the impact women are making in the travel and tourism sectors and, more Africa, Oulimata Sarr made a strong through tourism. case for equal opportunities for “To advance tourism’s contribution importantly, find pragmatic ways • Zurab Pololikashvili women across the broad spectrum of to the SDGs and achieving our Also present was a high-powered in which their roles can be further UNWTO Secretary-General common goal of gender equality, delegation from the UNWTO led by its deepened to maximize the gains things that are needed to help women succeed. Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili, mentioned already" she stated. the presentation by three women-led as well as Ghana's Vice President Dr She mentioned for example that “there startups at the Women Entrepreneurs Mahamudu Bawumia . The Minister added that the Congress on Women Empowerment has been is nothing micro about financing Tourism Challenge. These coupled For two days, some of the brightest a concerted effort that will help put women’s tourism businesses. We with four panel discussions, a minds in African and global tourism tourism at the forefront of gender need credit lines, venture capital and welcome cocktail, Gala Night and a lot converged at the Accra International equality and women’s empowerment a totally new perspective to expand more ensured a very successful event. women’s access to finance across the Conference Centre to discuss and efforts across Africa. The First Regional Congress on Women answer tough questions that women sector.” The First Lady of Zimbabwe, Hon. Empowerment in the Tourism Sector in tourism and business generally are The Vice President of the Republic – Focus on Africa was organised by confronted with on the continent. Mrs. Auxillia Mnangagwa, Chair of the UNTWO Commission for Africa, of Ghana Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, UNWTO and the Government of Ghana The host Minister and the Minister of Zambia’s Tourism Minister, Roland revealed measures by the Ghana through the Ministry of Tourism, Tourism Arts and Culture in Ghana Chitotela and the Secretary General Government to streamline tourism Arts and Culture with support from Barbara Oteng Gyasi, in her welcome of the UNWTO, Zurab Pololikashvili related activities for both local and the German Development Agency address underscored the importance in their respective speeches also international tourists. (Giz), Amadeus, the World Bank, UN of the theme, "Building the Future touched on the theme for the event Women, and IE University. Together". and highlighted the need to promote • Barbara Oteng-Gyasi Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture, Ghana

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Photo Highlight from First UNWTO Regional Congress on Women Empowerment in Ghana

• Nina Walet Intalou, Minister of Handicrafts and Tourism of Mali

• UNWTO’s Commission for Africa (CAF) Chairperson • A photo of High Delegates at the Regional and Zambia’s Tourism Minister, Roland Chitotela Congress on Women Empowerment

• From Right to Left: Ghana’s Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia, UNWTO Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvili, Mrs. Begoña Gomez, Director, IE Business School, Africa Center, Madrid, Spain and CAF Chairperson and Zambia’s Tourism • Mrs. Begoña Gomez, Director, IE Business School, • Ghana's Vice President in a tete a tete with South Africa's Africa Center, Madrid, Spain Mnister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane • From Left to Right: Mrs. Anita Mendiratta, Advisor to the UNWTO Minister, Roland Chitotela Secretary General, Nina Walet Intalou, Minister of Handicrafts and Tourism of Mali, Mrs. Barbara Oteng – Gyasi, Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture of Ghana, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, Minister of Tourism of South Africa and Memunatu B. Pratt, Minister of Tourism and Culture of Sierra Leone

• Alicia Rico Perez, Spanish Ambassador to Ghana

• A group photo of participants of the UNWTO, IE Business School & Wakalua Masterclass with Natalia Bayona, UNWTO Senior Expert on Innovation and Digital Transformation (third from right)

12 VOYAGESAFRIQ VOYAGESAFRIQ 13 • Elcia Grandcourt, UNWTO Regional Director, • Oulimata Sarr, Regional Director UN Women West • Zhu Shanzhong, Executive Director, UNWTO Department for Africa and Central Africa @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq Innovation and Rural Development Takes Center UNWTO Tourism Online Academy open to all Stage For Ministers’ Summit at World Travel Market he World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) IE Tourism for those who are looking to improve Online academy is opened after the launch of the project or supplement their current skillset in Tourism leaders from across the public Given the growing interest in rural dissemination will be vital for bridging order to adapt to this fast-growing and in September last year. and private sectors came together at development, the 13th Ministers’ the rural-urban divide. Alongside T evolving sector. Through these first the last World Travel Market (WTM) in Summit held by UNWTO in partnership private sector leaders, the public The Tourism Online Academy is an many more to join this initiative in the programs, participants will acquire London for a high-level discussion on with WTM, attracted a large audience sector was represented by highest- online learning platform that will future. managerial skills in digital marketing, tourism’s role in rural development, of delegates. Alongside 75 Ministers level tourism representatives from provide self-paced, 100% online finance, strategy, operations, the challenges and the opportunities. and Vice-Ministers of Tourism, Albania, Bolivia, Colombia, Greece, courses that mainly focuses on This high-quality learning experience innovation and digital transformation. The Ministers’ Summit on “Technology members of the global media joined Guatemala, Panama, Portugal, Saudi concepts, areas of interest and is available for everyone and caters for Rural Development”, hosted by the senior travel industry professionals for Arabia, Sierra Leone and Yemen, in fundamental principles related to World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) the high-level discussions, which were addition to Gloria Guevara, President the tourism sector,thus addressing in partnership with WTM, focused on moderated by Nina Dos Santos, CNN’s and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism the challenges it faces such as tourism innovation and technology Europe Editor. Council (WTTC) and UNWTO Secretary- globalization, digital revolution, travel and their place in empowering rural General Zurab Pololikashvili. Both Opening the Summit, Mr. marketing and sustainability, among communities. public and private sector participants others. Pololikashvili said: “Globally, poverty were united in their commitment to The Ministers’ Summit was held as is overwhelmingly rural. This means, if ensuring tourism’s contribution to These flexible courses allow the UNWTO works with its Member we are serious tourism being a driver rural development is geared to leaving participants to reconcile academic, States and alongside its fellow United growth and development, we must no one behind. professional and other personal Nations agencies to face up to the look outside of our cities: We need commitments. challenges posed by rising levels of to work together to help even the At its recent General Assembly, urbanization. According to the UN, smallest community enjoy the many UNWTO announced “Rural IE University and the World Tourism 68% of the world’s population will and varied benefits that tourism can Development and Tourism” as the Organization of the United Nations live in cities by 2050. In many places, bring.” theme for World Tourism Day 2020, have partnered to launch the Online this meant rural communities are the global observance day celebrated Tourism Academy with the support of “left behind”, and tourism has been Participants from both the private and every 27 September and underscoring different partners – and is expecting identified as a key means of bridging public sector explored the potential tourism’s socio-economic relevance. the rural-urban divide by creating jobs benefits of digital technology, agreeing and boosting economic sustainability. that innovation and knowledge PREPARATIONS IN FULL SWING AS MOROCCO GEARS UP FOR 24TH UNWTO GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Following their most applauded delivery of a great event in Marrakech. Zimbabwe respectively. election at the 23rd General Assembly to host the subsequent Africa will once again be graced with Morocco successfully won the bid over edition, Morocco has began earnest the opportunity of hosting another Philippines and Kenya during the 23rd preparations to deliver a great event General Assembly for the third time General Assembly in Saint Petersburg, in Africa. after the successful hosting of past Russia, in September for them to host editions in Senegal and Zambia- the event in 2021. A delegation from the Ministry of Tourism, Air Transport, Handicrafts and Social Economy has held a preliminary meeting with the leadership of UNWTO at the Organization’s headquarters in Madrid Spain. Meeting with the delegation, the Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvili reiterated his congratulations to Morocco for being selected to host tourism’s biggest event in 2021. He assured them of UNWTO’s support and commitment to ensure the • The Moroccan Delegates in a picture with Secretary General Pololikashvili and his team at the UNWTO Headquarters.

14 VOYAGESAFRIQ VOYAGESAFRIQ 15 @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq Ethiopian Airlines COO talks 2019, ongoing projects and future plans thiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading airline group and world’s Area Manager Greece & the Balkans, largest by destination saw mixed fortunes during the year Country Manager Nigeria, Director for Germany and Central Europe, Vice 2019. The Carrier’s major setback the fatal plane crash of E President Ethiopian Cargo, Senior Vice ET310 in March where all 157 passengers and crew on board President Global Sales, MD Ethiopian perished with the controversial Boeing 737-Max. International Services, and Group Chief Commercial Officer, the position • Students of Ethiopian Aviation Academy he holds now. Here are highlights of some of the Commencement of Hospitality and South African Airways has been going As MD Ethiopian International various areas of our conversation with Tourism Programmes at Ethiopian through financial troubles and until Services, he heads and directs the Esayas: Airlines Aviation Academy... the last direction of business rescue development and coordination of route were linked with a number of Sales, Services and Operation of all Expansion of Skylight Hotels to Ethiopian Aviation Academy has possibilities to save the carrier. International Flights and field office become largest in Africa ... begun courses in Hospitality and of Ethiopian Airlines Group activities Tourism. This has become necessary While Esayas did not dismiss the and objectives, policies, procedures, The Ethiopian Skylight hotels in Addis as the airline group has ventured into reports entirely, he said Ethiopian plans and programs. He directs and Ababa will soon be the biggest in the hotel subsector. Airline is more concerned about Controls the company’s individual Africa with a room capacity of 1,000. helping other carriers on the continent and corporate passenger sales, The hotel, which was opened nearly ‘We are training flight engineers and to succeed. ticketing, reservations, and passenger a year ago with 375 rooms, has begun mechanics, marketing and finance services activities at all overseas the second phase on the construction executives, cargo logistics people, air ‘’South Africa is one of Africa’s high locations of Ethiopian Airlines, all over of 640 additional rooms as part of the hostesses and now that Ethiopian quality service airline and I have the world. Establishes revenue targets eight and night strategic business Airlines has ventured into the hotel respect for them. We want a strong and evaluate its implementation. units of Ethiopian Airlines Group. sub sector, we have started offering South African Airways and we do not Oversees the administrative and courses in hospitality and tourism’’. want the demise of SAA. We want all According to Esayas, “This is in a African airlines to come up since we • Esayas Woldemariam Hailu sales support staff to ensure that way to accommodate the Meetings, He believes this will not only serve the Group Chief Commercial Officer of Ethiopian Airlines do control only 20% of the market the required assistance and support Incentives, Conferences and Events as Ethiopian Airlines Group but will be a is in place, including customer share. SAA has been coming with a well as the leisure tourism arrivals into great tourism knowledge base for the certain bank to Addis Ababa. ‘’ The airline was transparent and In an extensive conversation with the oriented schedules, products, Ethiopia.” country and Africa as a whole. handled the post crash crisis very well. Group Chief Commercial Officer of the pricing are established and efficient ‘’They took the initiative and brought The accident was the talking point Airline, Esayas Woldemariam Hailu he administrative, promotional and “The third phase of the project is to ‘’The Academy is also up scaling the a request for us to help them and which attracted global interest. gives us account of what happened distribution support are provided for build lodges in Ethiopia’s tourism course offering to meet the manpower we have given them proposals and in the course of 2019 and outlook for sales offices to achieve their revenue hotspots across the country. This requirements of the continent and the The airline held burial service for the are still waiting. The management of year 2020. target. in his opinion will help shape the country. ‘’ He added. victims and engaged with the families South Africa Airways keep changing country’s burgeoning tourism sector.” and we do not know their wishes as at throughout the crisis. Esayas joined the airline in 1991 and He is a holder of Master’s Degree in In addition to that, will be the building South Africa Airways Acquisition... has served the airline for 24 years Business Administration MBA from now but we are desirous, capable and Ethiopian moved on and chalked of small hotels in historical, natural Recent media reports have linked the in different Senior Management The Open University in UK, and BSc. willing to help them,” Esayas added. great feats in the aviation sector and cultural sites of Ethiopia to star alliance airline to troubled South positions including Expert Flight Degree in Mathematics from Addis and also entered new phases of the accommodate travellers to these sites. Africa Airways as a possible new Performance and Yield Analysis, Ababa University. He is married and a Group’s bigger vision. bankroller of the airline. Manager Revenue Management father of two children. and Central Reservations Control,

• Skylight Hotel

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He said the launch of the ‘Beyond the Return’ campaign was to assist those who have decided to settle GHANA LAUNCHES in Ghana and other parts of Africa, assimilate into the society “so we can derive maximum dividends from our relations in mutually beneficial co- operation, and as partners for shared “BEYOND THE growth and development”. President Akufo-Addo who cited the contribution of Chinese diasporans to the growth of China’s economy, he noted that China’s transformation into RETURN” INITIATIVE manufacturing powerhouse in the 1990’s was realized mainly because Chinese in the Diaspora shore up the economy with billions of dollars. He held that just like Chinese Diasporans were critical to the rise of the Asian economic giant, African ought do same for the African continent, saying, “That is why I am excited and keen on this new initiative of “Beyond the Return”, and the renewed enthusiasm around building Africa together. He called on all people of African descent around the world to make the 21st century count for the continent, by building on the progress made • Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana speaking at so far to see the growth of modern, the launch of the initiative prosperous, technologically- advanced nations within a united hana’s President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has Africa, to bring dignity and respect to launched the “Beyond the Return, The Diaspora Dividend” black people all over the world. GInitiative, a move to enable Ghana derive maximum Source: Ghana News Agency benefits from and build on the dividends of the “Year of Return” chatter. The Year of Return Ghana 2019, a Government initiative, which ends in January 2020, is intended to encourage African diasporans to come to Ghana to settle and invest on the continent. The initiative has put a positive spotlight on Ghana and attracted many people of African descent, mainly from the Caribbean and the USA to Ghana. At a brief ceremony in Accra, the President said as the curtain drew on “Year of Return” initiative; it was time to engage Africans in the Diaspora and all persons of African descent to help make Ghana and Africa a • The President with other dignitaries at the function place for investment and economic development.

18 VOYAGESAFRIQ VOYAGESAFRIQ 19 @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq The Seychelles Island aims at Africa's leisure and corporate market with its Exotic offerings

• The Cabinet Secretary, Najib Balala (middle), and other officials of the Tourism Ministry display the report

the sheer size of the African consumer European & American travelers to Kenya releases Tourism segment. Africa as well. The Seychelles Tourism Board Air Access is available, and Air marketing strategy in Africa is Seychelles, the island's national aimed at the leisure and corporate airlines operates daily flights (four Performance Report for 2019 travelers from African countries, the hours and thirty minutes) between expatriate community as well as Seychelles and Johannesburg, South Kenya’s tourism earnings grew by 3.9 Arrivals through Jomo Kenyatta leading source market, growing by the international visitors to those Africa, the most direct flights between percent to Sh163.6 billion as arrivals International Airport were 1.42 million nine percent with 245,437 arrivals. countries. As tourism to Eastern and South Africa and Seychelles. defied terror threats and global or 70 percent of total arrivals followed continue to grow, David Germain Flights to Mahe the capital from Africa geopolitics to remain above the two- by Moi International Airport with Arrivals from Uganda jumped 5.1 Seychelles remain optimistic and will percent to 223,010 leapfrogging Regional Director for Africa & are also available daily from Nairobi, million mark last year. 128,222. Americas - Seychelles Tourism Board continue to benefit from its tourism Tanzania to the second position. marketing activities and programs Kenya and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia The earnings improved from the The slowed growth in earnings came Tanzania, which has had several involving African countries. respectively. Sh157.4 billion in 2018 but represent in the period as only eight out of diplomatic tiffs with Kenya, saw The Seychelles Tourism Board The Seychelles Tourism Board will a slower growth compared to the the top 20 source markets posted a arrivals fall by the same percentage to continues to promote and market Seychelles conduct ongoing continue to promote the island in previous year. In 2018, earnings growth in tourist numbers. 193,740. Seychelles in Africa, as an “exotic” marketing activities in Kenya, Africa from the 2020 onwards, in increased by 37.33 percent as island holiday destination for African Ethiopia, , Namibia, Zambia collaboration with our airline and international tourist arrivals crossed “The year started with the dusitD2 Other top growing markets were corporate and leisure travelers, as well and South Africa being the largest trade partners. the two-million mark for the first time attack (January 15) and that had France, China, Rwanda, South Sudan, as international travelers to Africa. source market in Africa. an impact to the growth. But it is a Burundi, Austria, and Spain. However, in history. The Seychelles Islands remains one of resilient performance,” Mr Balala said. tourist numbers from United Kingdom, The Tourism Industry in Seychelles For international visitors to those the purest and most environmentally The latest statistics, released by India, Germany, Italy and South in general is conscious of the fact African countries, Seychelles offer intact destinations on earth, offering Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib “We need to up our game to ensure Africa all dipped and so did those that the African Corporate & Leisure twin-center packages, the (Safari / a great diversity of experiences to Balala in Nairobi, show there were the sector is vibrant and doesn’t live in from Canada, Ethiopia, Netherlands, Market is an extremely important beach) combination, a safari in Africa visitors. 2,048,834 foreign visitors compared the past glory but manifests itself for Nigeria and Somalia. and attractive source market for and thereafter to the beaches and with 2,025,206 international arrivals in the future.” Seychelles, given the continents’ unique attractions of the Seychelles, Source: Business Daily Africa 2018. The United States remained Kenya’s proximity to Seychelles, air access and a very popular program for the

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ONOMO Hotels acquires controlling stake in BON Hotels ONOMO Hotels has acquired a 60.1% Ruggieri, this will consolidate the benefit from BON Hotels' experience controlling stake in BON Hotels. African hospitality market and will in hotel management. continue to strengthen its pan-African CEO and founder of BON Hotels Guy presence. BON Hotels CEO Guy Stehlik says the Stehlik and his family have a long deal provides access to a bigger client association with South African and The acquisition establishes ONOMO database, a stronger distribution Nigerian hospitality, while ONOMO as a key player in the Nigerian market platform, increased purchasing Hotels is linked to the investment by and will reinforce its presence in power and a wider-reaching loyalty Batipart Invest - a company founded Southern Africa. programme. and owned by the Luxembourg-based Ruggieri family, big private investors in The deal positions ONOMO as a pan- He expects that the merger could hospitality in Africa. African mid-scale hospitality group lead to the creation of more than 3 with a footprint spanning 15 countries 000 new work opportunities on the According to a statement issued about and with 4 300 rooms and a pipeline continent as it offers potential growth the deal, this strategic partnership of 3 000 additional rooms. In addition, opportunities for all stakeholders. reflects their ongoing confidence in the new group now jointly employs economic opportunities in Africa, some 2 200 people. Source: Compiled by Carin Smith- particularly in tourism. Fin24 ONOMO Hotels CEO Cedric According to ONOMO chair Julien Guilleminot expects the company will

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Photo highlights from the World Travel Market London

• Sierra Leone’s Minister of Tourism and Culture in a photo op • A scene from the African Hall with team members at their stand at WTM London

• The Secretary-General of UNWTO Zurab Pololikashvili with Spain's Minister of Tourism, Reyes Maroto (second left) and WTTC President Gloria Guevara Manzo • A photo of participants from Sri Lanka with the WTM London team

• Memunatu B. Pratt, Minister of Tourism and Culture of Sierra Leone • President & CEO of World Travel and Tourism Council, Gloria Guevara

• The Speed Networking Session provided opportunity • Revellers at the Ghana Day were treated to traditional dance and music for buyers and providers to conduct business

24 VOYAGESAFRIQ • A photo from the Cape Town stand VOYAGESAFRIQ 25 • Staff of Reed Exhibitions, organisers of WTM London @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq

Ethiopian Group CEO Named ‘Airline RWANDA TO HOST 2020 AFRICA TOURISM Executive of the Year’ by CAPA LEADERSHIP FORUM & AWARDS Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. CAPA Chairman, Emeritus Peter Tewolde GebreMariam has been Harbison on his part remarked, 13 - 15 July, 2020 recognized as ‘Airline Executive of the “Tewolde GebreMariam has become a Year’ at the annual Global Aviation giant in African aviation over the past Kigali Convention Centre Awards for Excellence organized by decades. He has guided a marginal become a platform for African youth Centre for Aviation (CAPA) in Malta airline into becoming a major global in tourism and start-ups to develop to on 5th December 2019. Mr. Tewolde force, with a modern fleet and a world fulfil their respective potential. GebreMariam won the title for his class operation. This past year he has commendable individual influence on been most strenuously challenged “We are enthused that the event has the aviation industry, demonstrating following the MAX accident, and become a blue-print for actionable outstanding strategic thinking and emerges with an even stronger collaboration among African tourism innovative direction for the growth reputation. We are proud to present stakeholders and service providers of Ethiopian Airlines and the aviation him with this award and look forward over the past three years.” Says industry at large. to him continuing to lead the airline to Kwakye Donkor, CEO, Africa Tourism even greater heights." Partners. “Like ATLF 2018 and ATLF Commenting on the accolade, Mr. 2019 in Accra, Ghana and Durban, Tewolde GebreMariam said, “I am Having served Ethiopian Airlines in Tewolde GebreMariam South Africa respectively, we wish to honored to have received the award different capacities for decades, Mr. urge all industry stakeholders across and I sincerely thank CAPA for the Tewolde took the helm of Africa’s airlines and airports based in the the continent to make time to join the recognition. We at Ethiopian have leading flag-carrier as Group CEO Asia Pacific region. The awards later Kigali Forum, and also submit their achieved greater milestones as one in January 2011. He has received a expanded to the global stage in 2012 entries for the 2020 Africa Tourism family. I want to dedicate this award to number of prestigious accolades in the to acknowledge aviation excellence Leadership Awards accordingly.”he my colleagues: more than 16,000 brave aviation industry for his outstanding worldwide. stressed. men and women around the world leadership that propelled Ethiopian to who always challenge themselves the top of Africa’s aviation. Mr. Tewolde has also been listed as In addition to Youth In Tourism to soar higher with the mind-set that one of the 100 Most Influential Africans Innovation Summit, CEOs/Executives every step they take can become new Regarded as the pre-eminent awards in 2019 by New African Magazine this Dialogue, MICE Masterclass, this year’s history and milestone in today’s 21st for strategic excellence in aviation, week. Forum 2020 will include bespoke century aviation business.” CAPA first established the awards exhibition for sponsors, partners in 2003 to recognize successful and suppliers, thereby providing an additional platform for suppliers, destinations and Brand engagements Ethiopian celebrates 20th Anniversary of ShebaMiles in Style Rwanda’s capital city of Kigali is set to stakeholder, multi-disciplinary Register, enter awards or submit offer our members with more ways to host Africa Tourism Leadership Forum and collaborative platform for real an innovative project proposal earn miles over the years. Throughout 2020 (ATLF) and Awards from 13 to 15 action and to accelerating increased for Youth Innovators competition these years, our customers have July, 2020 in Kigali. The theme for this continental tourism growth. Also, it by visiting - https://www. immensely contributed to the 2020 gathering is “Shaping a better has become a distinctive vehicle for tourismleadershipforum.africa development of the loyalty program. future for intra-africa travel together”. action on increased intra-Africa travel, now to avoid missing out on the Our Frequent Flyer Program has modernised visa policies, increased biggest intra-Africa gathering of teamed up with several airlines The July 2020 Forum, an intra-Africa airlift for “Destination Africa”. It global and pan-African industry and non-airline partners to create game-changing event will be held at affords the opportunity for attendees experts. Kindly contact us at info@ a world of choices for members to the Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali, to exploit new opportunities for the africatourismpartners.com or +27 accumulate miles. Going forward, Rwanda. The Forum is expected good of all. (0)81 303 7030 if more information is we will continuously strive to offer to bring together over 500 industry required. enormous privileges for our customers leaders from across the globe. Among the focus areas identified underpinned by our digital solutions. Building on its remarkable progress in for deliberations are Thought We sincerely thank our loyal members the past three years, the Forum aims Leadership; travel technology and and partners for their continued to boost the efforts of industry leaders innovation; transformation of intra- Ethiopian Airlines, the Largest Aviation ShebaMiles members /management Group in Africa and SKYTRAX Certified and board members of the airline and support throughout the years and for in transforming intra-Africa travel. This Africa travel; destination marketing inspiring us to constantly enrich their is in accordance with the outcomes of and showcases; MICE/business events Four Star Global Airline has colourfully aviation stakeholders. celebrated the 20th anniversary of travel and overall travel experiences.” ATLF Accra 2018, Ghana and Durban strategies, African aviation routes and On the occasion, Ethiopian Airlines 2019, South Africa respectively. airlift; modernization of visa policies; its loyalty program, ShebaMiles, and Originally named after the Queen of Customers’ Day on 12 November 2019 awarded its ShebaMiles platinum rural tourism development; start- members and cargo customers Sheba of Ethiopia who gave generous Organized by the African Tourism ups; youth in tourism and tourism at Ethiopian Skylight Hotel. The grand rewards to King Solomon, according Partners and BDO South Africa, anniversary event brought together for their continuous support and investment funding. The youth patronage to the airline. to Ethiopian mythology, ShebaMiles ATLF is the largest Africa travel and demographic that particípated in high ranking government officials was launched in February 1999 and tourism Thought Leadership, multi- the 2019 Durban, shows that it has including Minsters, Ambassadors Airlines Group CEO Tewolde the loyalty program has now more and the Diplomatic community, GebreMariam said” We are excited to than 3 million members.

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Air Seychelles commences Tel Aviv flight Air Seychelles, the national airline ties between the two countries, in and we are confident that with the of the Republic of Seychelles has addition to making a significant support of our partners both locally Experts Forecast: welcomed its first non-stop flight contribution towards the growth of and abroad, we will continue to from Tel Aviv, linking Israel to the tourism in the Seychelles which has bring more visitors from Israel to the Seychelles. been targeted between 3 to 5 per cent Seychelles. African Tourism Priorities for 2020 for 2019. Flight HM021 which landed at the “The successful arrival of flight HM021 Tourism has seen some growth and blueprint got underway in earnest some success in AU’s Agenda 2063 Seychelles International Airport at “As part of our marketing efforts to would have not been possible without continues to make its way in order with the regional congress on women goal of open boarders and the 8.15am was greeted by a traditional bring the Seychelles Islands to the the support of our stakeholders and of Government priorities. The World empowerment in the tourism sector expectation to spur economic growth water canon salute, in the presence world, we will continue to work with colleagues at Air Seychelles. I would Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the recommendations are in the continent. of key dignitaries, government Air Seychelles to build our presence like to take the opportunity to thank all through its Commission for Africa expected to be adopted by member representatives, and travel trade within the Israeli market, to further those who has been heavily involved (CAF) meeting adopted the Agenda for states. In the light of the above, VoyageAfriq members as well as media partners. increase our visibility and establish in this project including the STB, Africa-2030 for inclusive development. solicited the opinions of experts, Seychelles as the preferred holiday SCAA, Department of Foreign Affairs, The Agenda captures the pressing The African Union Commission policy leaders and media on Africa’s To celebrate this momentous occasion destination in the Indian Ocean.” travel trade partners as well as our needs of the continent when it comes in partnership with the African tourism outlook in 2020.Below are the the Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, dedicated staff members for the effort to making tourism the positive driver Development Bank released the visa excepts……. Ports and Marine, Didier Dogley, Remco Althuis, Chief Executive Officer and invaluable support throughout.” for economic development. This openness report which indicated Chairman of Air Seychelles Board, of Air Seychelles added further: “We Jean Weeling-Lee, Air Seychelles are tremendously excited to have The flight between Tel Aviv and the Chief Executive, Remco Althuis added Tel Aviv unto our network and Seychelles operated on Wednesdays together with the Chief Executive of delighted to welcome the first guests has been carefully timed to provide Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority on our new scheduled non-stop flight business and leisure traveller’s (SCAA), Garry Albert and Seychelles from Tel Aviv to Seychelles today. seamless onward connections to Tourism Board (STB) Chief Executive Mauritius and Johannesburg. Sherin Francis participated in a “Being on board this first flight ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the which was 100 per cent full with 120 Operated by the modern Airbus commencement of the new service. passengers, the maximum capacity A320neo aircraft ‘Veuve’, the inaugural for this route, I must say that since we Tel Aviv service was commended Addressing the guests during the made the announcement to fly on the by Captain Mervin Sicobo and First welcoming ceremony, Minister of Tel Aviv route, the feedback from the Officer Russel Morel whilst the guests Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Israeli market has been very positive. were looked after by Cabin Manager Marine, Didier Dogley said: “The Mervin Arrisol, Cabin Senior Kelpha launch of the new service between “The extremely strong bookings, Dailoo including Flight Attendants Seychelles and Tel Aviv will further exceeding the 90 per cent load factor Janette Croisee and Laureen Loze. enhance the tourism and economic for the upcoming two months has definitely surpassed our expectations, Kwakye Donkor Oulimata Sarr Prof. Wolfgang Thome CEO African Tourism Partners Regional Director of UN Women, West Publisher of ATC News- Uganda South Africa & Central Africa Africa World Airlines to launch services to Abidjan next year Africa Tourism in 2020 will be full of The Global Tourism forecast for 2020 Tourism is a driver of economic opportunities and hope. Ghanaian carrier Africa World Airlines looks is positive. Key trends that will growth in Africa. Anchored on our has confirmed the capital of Cote drive these will include increased UN principle of no one left behind, Tourism is often described as a people d'ivoire Abidjan as its next destination demand for travel technology, we must ensure that women are not business and one which unites people from February 2020. sustainable products and meetings, confined to low paying jobs in the more than anything else. Provider of 1 Incentives, Conferences and industry. We would like to see them out of every 10 jobs around the world The inaugural flight is scheduled Exhibitions (MICE) as well as Business in positions of leadership at the policy - is it time for the industry to stand up for 14 February 2020 and will fly six Events. African stakeholders will, level, entrepreneurs providing goods and reclaim the high ground. Tourism times to the Ivorien capital.This brings however, have to go beyond the and services to the sector, and a well like no other industry unites people, the Airlines regional routes to five status quo of traditional tourism remunerated work force. brings them together and by doing destinations Lagos, Abuja , Freetown, development and destination so creates opportunities and gives Monrovia and Abidjan marketing. Innovation and clear hope to other economic sectors in the entire world. The latest move forms part of the focus on a destination’s distinctive airline’s strategy to grow its presence competencies and comparative in West Africa. advantages will be extremely critical Africa world Airlines has been operating in Ghana since 2012 with Embraer 145 and currently have 8 seven fleet.

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Elcia Grandcourt David Gonahasa Judy Kepher-Gona Mohammed Hersi Lou Ann Daniels Richard Kyereh UNWTO /Regional Director for Africa Director & Founder, Roundbob.com Executive Director, Chairman Kenya Tourism Federation Travel Editor, IOL- South Africa Head of Commercial –Africa World Sustainable Travel & Tourism Agenda Airlines A major milestone has been achieved “I predict increase in intra Africa tourist Africans must open the borders to In 2020 I will be shifting my focus with the endorsement and adoption numbers driven by the easing of visa Tourism in Africa enjoys continuous each other. Visa between Africans away from soft tourism stories and Entering 2020 with the “year of return”, of the UNWTO AGENDA FOR AFRICA restrictions, the implementation growth, partly made possible by should be eradicated. If 10% of our concentrate on the bigger picture. It's we should reorient our mindsets to 2030 - Tourism for inclusive growth of the continental free trade area, prevailing peace conditions in many population was to travel we are talking not enough to drive tourism to African develop, boost, repackage domestic at the 23rd General Assembly in St. and increased interest in tourism countries, air accessibility and diversity of 120Million travellers which double countries. We need to play our part in and intra africa tourism to generate Petersburg, Russia in September 2019. for development by the continental of attractions supporting investments. the international numbers that came holistically addressing the economic and contribute positively to the UNWTO´s commitment in the years APEX political organizations. I also However, the strides in this growth to Africa. plight of our continent. Where economies of Africa! ahead is to continue to work alongside foresee growth driven by technology, outpace community wellbeing in necessary, our stories need to reflect our member states to facilitate travel an increase in online bookings destinations. To optimize tourism the impact of Western sanctions or movements, eliminate known visa and a stronger reliance on online impacts on community wellbeing, changes in aid policies. It's time to tell and air access restrictions to step marketing by tour agents. These can Africa should take advantage of the the stories that really matter. up change and traveler movement. drive the advancement of platforms, increasing awareness of need for Again Africa should reduce time and technologies and payment solutions.” sustainable development through the expenses and encourage a more SDGs, and steer the sector towards unified approach in unlocking the sustainable management of resource huge tourism potentials that exists on dimensions. the continent.

Zina Bencheikh Franck Olivier Kra Regional General Manager Europe, Editor, Ebiz- Africa Middle East and North Africa Having travelled the African Continent, Peak DMC one discovers its potential, its varied David Desta and wild beauty (which constitutes a A graduate of the world-famous My main resolution for 2020 is to Anita Mendiratta comparative advantage), its originality Cornell University School of Hotel look at more ways to combat gender and the dynamism of the sector. From Administration, David is passionate stereotypes and focus on creating President Anita Mendiratta & north to south and from east to west, Thomas Muller about hospitality, travel, and tourism more openings for African women Nunurai Ndawana Associates & Special Adviser to this part of the planet never ceases to trying to break into the tourism field. UNWTO Secretary-General on the African continent. Public Relations and Corporate CEO- Rainmaker Africa- South Africa surprise because Africa is what I will Having seen the power of the tourism call the ‘’’’ due to its speaking I would like to see the efforts of SAATM Communications Officer As we all know, demand for ‘Brand "The African Hospitality and Tourism industry to create long-term change and expressive diversity in the pure materialize and the improvement of AFRICA’ is embedded in strategies and sector is facing huge challenges. Value for women – and having been part Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe sense of the word. For 2020, my battle visa facilitation for inter-African travel. agendas continent-wide. Its absence chains have dramatically changed, of it myself – I am optimistic for the horse will be to show the dynamism The benefits of an open-skies policy 2019 saw a turbulent time for both is blamed, repeatedly and widely, for distribution channels significantly future of African tourism and women of the sector and how innovation would not only increase intra-regional tourism and aviation in African. Amid negative perceptions that damage increased and technology is changing in particular. in sustainable, inclusive tourism mobility, trade, and tourism but also the turbulences we saw some signs tourism potentials. But ’’Brand Africa’’ daily. The cost of distribution increased can change the daily lives of those lay down the path for continental of growth and stability. In 2020 I already exists – Africa is a known and is no longer sustainable. 2020 is involved in the sector. integration. SAATM will help improve am expecting to see more African entity. Known, yes. Owned, no. In the year of economic sustainability. flight schedules and routes, but most States opening up their borders to 2020 it is dearly hoped that African 2020 is the year destinations gain back importantly, provide travelers with fellow African states. This as we have nations take ownership of articulating control of visibility, digital-presence, more choices and cheaper fares. seen in Ghana and Mauritius has and activating the, ’’ 1 continent and reputation, and distribution. 2020 is Hopefully, in time, Africans will no correlation to stimulating both trade 54 destinations, is Africa’’ slogan- by the year to keep more tourism spend longer be viewed as migrants, but as and commerce. In aviation I hope to narrative, not by logos - enabling in destinations for sustainable tourism tourists within their own continent. see African carriers implement more leaders to finally make Brand Africa a development." sustainable business models and far shared communications movement more African cities to be interlinked to championing our true stories, not one another. stereotypes.

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Dr. Adun Okupe Susan Muumbi Jon Howell Senior Advisor –Red Clay- Nigeria Sub-Editor-The EastAfrican CEO and Founder, AviaDev I am looking forward to a stronger Tourism in Africa is looking up in 2020. For African governments to recognise focus on tourism education in Africa As the African Continental Free Trade the impact of the aviation sector for 2020. Area agreement comes into effect, and then support and nurture it borders and skies will be open to accordingly. Airlines should be At Red Clay, we resolve to further greater movement of people. Africans treated as valued partners and not develop advanced tourism education, can travel easier. They need to know simply a source of taxation revenue. making the industry attractive for our where to go depending on their best minds - the people we need to interests, beach, safari, food, culture... ensure Africa achieves its tourism What to do when they get there potential. Africa is such a wonderful and how to enjoy their experiences and beautiful continent with talented responsibly. As a journalist, my aim and dedicated people they can attain is to inform and educate on new their highest professional ambitions developments in tourism and to see in the industry and contribute to Africans leave their comfort zones and sustainable tourism development in discover the continent and indeed the Africa. world.

Dr. Carmen Nibigira

Tourism Policy Analyst, Burundi • UEFA President, Aleksander Ceferin with I expect tourism boards and players Officials of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority paying a little more attention to the African market. This market has been neglected in the past. Product development geared to respond to the needs of this market, marketing efforts that promote Africa for Africans. Governments to foster and implement inter and intra régional tourism and trade more vigorously. Let’s make 2020 a year we all at least discover one African country we didn’t know.....

32 VOYAGESAFRIQ VOYAGESAFRIQ 33 @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq Hilton Nairobi marks Golden Jubilee Malawi receives 17 black rhinos from country – the renowned safari rally South Africa driver known as Patrick Njiru. In one of the largest international species and increase the genetic to their new home in Liwonde National As Kenya celebrates the return of the rhino translocations to date, 17 diversity of existing populations in Park, where they were released to the safari rally in Kenya in 2020 it is worth Endangered Black Rhinos have made Liwonde and Majete. wildon November 12, 2019. noting that Hilton was the home of the the historic journey from South Africa Kenya Safari rally for many years as to Liwonde National Park in Malawi Due to the relentless persecution of Since their release, African Parks has the legendary Kenyan driver - Patrick the species for its horn, black rhino intensively monitored the rhinos to Njiru would regularly park his famed In a unique collaboration between populations have plummeted across ensure their health and successful Subaru rally car at the Hilton lobby WWF South Africa’s Black Rhino Africa resulting in fewer than 5,000 adaptation to their new environment during Easter season as an exhibition Range Expansion Project (BRREP), left in the wild today. Effective park and all appear to be settling in well. showpiece for guests. African Parks, Malawi’s Department management, law enforcement and Rangers conduct patrols daily and of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) community engagements are essential innovative technology has enabled The hotel was also the first property and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, 17 in conserving wild rhino populations the rhinos to be tracked on a live-time in the city to introduce the executive black rhinos were translocated from across their range. This translocation basis. Liwonde has been managed by lounge concept for its V.I.P guests in Imfolozi Game Reserve in KwaZulu- provides the opportunity to move African Parks in partnership with the 1994 (having conducted its extensive • Front view of the Hotel Natal, South Africa, to Liwonde this incredibly endangered species DNPW since 2015. Since assuming $11million renovation) and it was also the first hotel to create a leading National Park in Malawi where they to well-protected areas which are management, the authorities have he Hilton Nairobi began operations in Nairobi on December pastry shop in the city known as the were successfully released into their essential to giving rhino populations overhauled law enforcement and have “Hilton la Patisserie”. This famous new wild home. a chance for growth and survival, and worked extensively with communities 17th, 1969 and was officially opened by His Excellency the allowing future generations of people to secure the park, and not a single small outlet located at the Hilton Subsequently, African Parks also late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta - first President of the Republic of arcade was renowned for its classic to benefit from their natural heritage. rhino or elephant has been lost to T moved two of Liwonde’s rhinos from poaching in two and a half years. Kenya. At inception, the hotel was the tallest building in Nairobi custom-made sandwiches. its existing population to Majete The 17 rhinos were captured in and was soon a haven for Kenya’s leading businessmen, leisure The Hilton Nairobi today boasts Wildlife Reserve, and another rhino KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, and 17 black rhinos have made the tourists and government officials who were its loyal patrons. 287 guest rooms, 3 restaurants, an from Majete to Liwonde. Based on quarantined for six weeks in Imfolozi historic journey from the Imfolozi American themed coffee shop, 2 bars a custodianship agreement signed Game Reserve, after which they were Game Reserve in South Africa to The hotel in its early years was the Paul amongst many others. (both indoor and outdoor) and a fully leading central base for inbound between the Governments of Malawi flown from King Shaka airport in Liwonde National Park in Malawi in Over the 5 decades of its existence, equipped gym facility with a spa and tourists seeking wildlife adventures and South Africa, this incredible Durban to Lilongwe in Malawi. Every one of the largest international rhino Hilton Nairobi has been known heated pool to cater for its enrolled within Kenyas’s famed game parks project aims to boost Malawi’s rhino precaution was taken to ensure their translocations to date spanning over as a pioneer in the hospitality members and in-house guests. and reserves. Hilton soon expanded population, support regional efforts wellbeing throughout the process. 1,788.21 km (1,111.14 miles). industry having set the standards for its portfolio and opened the Hilton As you plan your next visit embrace to conserve the critically endangered From Lilongwe, they were then driven hospitality in the city. The hotel was Salt Lick Safari Lodge and the Hilton the magic of Kenya, make it a point to the first hospitality company in Kenya Taita Hills Lodge in 1973 (both located experience this historic hotel. to sponsor a leading sportsman in the within the Taita Hills Sanctuary). Later in 1990 it opened the Hilton Safari Camp also located within the Taita Hills Sanctuary. The lodges and camp were sold off in the new millennium ushering a new era for the hotel as it prepared to position itself as a leading business hotel catering to the ever growing population of mushrooming corporates and businessmen in the city. The hotel underwent an extensive 3 year $11 million dollar renovation program to mark its silver jubilee anniversary and has over the years undergone various structural improvements and changes keeping in line with preserving its rich vintage charm and elegance. The hotel has hosted various celebrities over the years including the famous US actor Sydney Poitier, the sixth UN Secretary General Boutros Boutros-Ghali, famous Hollywood • Kenya’s First President, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta in 1969 inaugurated the Hilton Nairobi actress Angelina Jolie, musician Sean

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Four Points by Sheraton RWANDA INKS THREE- Nairobi Airport

P. O Box 1158 – 00606 YEAR TOURISM Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Embakasi Nairobi, Kenya PROMOTION DEAL WITH PSG FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON Rwanda Development Board has announced a three-year-deal with NAIROBI AIRPORT PSG of France meant to promote the Africa’s Best Airport Hotel country’s tourism, art and culture as well as brands. We know what our guests appreciate. Stylish rooms, productive work spaces, innovative dining and an incredible rooftop view. Rwanda already have a similar deal opportunities showcasing Rwanda build on the current partnership with with Premier League side Arsenal in and ‘Visit Rwanda’ on backdrop Arsenal FC to further boost the brand which the club’s jerseys bear “Visit banners and stadium installations, awareness on the global scale That’s why we have been awarded Kenya and Africa’s Best Rwanda” logo on the sleeves. ‘Visit Rwanda’ on the women’s team Airport Hotel twice in a row. 2018-2019 and 2019-2020. The greatest beneficiaries of the as well as the training kits for men. The deal with the French side will see partnership include tea and coffee local fashion and design, Rwandan art Other brand visibility opportunities producers as consumption of their and culture, coffee and tea and well will include a week-long display of products in the stadium is expected to Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport as tourist attractions gain visibility Rwandan brands. further drive demand in the European BOOK NOW AT FOURPOINTS.COM/NAIROBIAIRPORT through the club. market. CALL 0709 760 000 or E: [email protected] The deal will also cater to football

Rwandan tea and coffee will development in the country with “The other is Fashion, we are going to ©2017 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Starpoints, SPG, Preferred Guest, exclusively be sold at Le Parc des avenues to nurture and mentor be working with PSG to select players Four Points and their respective logos are trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates. Princes, the home stadium of PSG emerging talents. in the Rwandan Fashion industry to with a capacity of close to 48,000. elevate them and showcase them Read: Italy’s Roma Ban For Life Fan to the world using PSG platforms,” According to Rwanda Development Who Racially Abused Defender Juan Akamanzi said. Board Chief Executive Clare Akamanzi, Jesus On Social Media the new deal also provides visibility Source: www.kahawatungu.com Akamanzi says that the deal seeks to Suspended CEO of SAT cleared of any wrongdoing SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AFRICA SUMMIT 2020 and set to return after festive season 13TH – 15TH MAY 2020 The substantive CEO of South African allegations made against South COAST OF KENYA Tourism (SAT), Sisa Ntshona is African Tourism (SA Tourism) Chief expected to return to office after the Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Sisa festive season break. Ntshona, has been completed. The SA Tourism Board announced this The SA Tourism Board received the after an independent and disciplinary final adjudication on 13 December committee acquitted him of any 2019 from the team working on the CALL FOR SPEAKERS wrongdoing. disciplinary hearing, and the Minister of Tourism, has been appraised of this In a statement to the media, the Board outcome. said ‘’ Following a thorough process NOW OPEN which saw a forensic investigation Following a thorough process which CLOSES ON 28TH FEBRUARY 2020 and a disciplinary hearing take place, saw a forensic investigation and • Sisa Ntshona Mr Ntshona has been cleared of all a disciplinary hearing take place, charges brought against him. The Mr Ntshona has been cleared of all board is pleased that the process has charges brought against him. Mr Ntshona returns to his position as Theme: finally been concluded and that the CEO of SA Tourism immediately and organisation can return to normality. ‘’ The board is pleased that the process will resume his office duties after the Sustainability & Optimizing Destination Africa has finally been concluded and festive season vacation. The Board thanked Ms Sthembiso that the organisation can return to Our Planet. Our People. Our Prosperity Dlamini, the COO who acted as CEO normality. The Board would also like to take this during the nine-month absence of opportunity to thank Ms. Sthembiso Sisa Nthshona. The Board welcomes back Mr Ntshona Dlamini for the sterling work that she and looks forward to continue working did as acting CEO. Submit 250 word summary of your topic of presentation. Attach your bio Below is the full statement with him as we seek to grow tourist Email: [email protected] arrivals in our sector and to build a Issued on behalf of the South African ‘’The independent investigation stable organisation. Tourism Board More info: www.events.sttakenya.org and disciplinary enquiry into the Conference charges apply 36 VOYAGESAFRIQ @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq

Nigeria offer Marriott International inks a deal with Landmark Upcoming Travel Exhibitions Sabbour to open a W Hotel in Cairo Visa on Arrival to African FITUR International Fairs Meetings Africa WTM Africa Date: 22- 26 January 2020 Date: 6-8 April 2020 Date: 24-26 February 2020 travellers Cape Town International Venue: IFEMA, Madrid –Spain Venue: Venue: Sandton Convention Centre- Convention Centre, South Africa FITUR is the global meeting point for Johannesburg, South Africa World Travel Market Africa delivers the tourism professionals and the leading Meetings Africa showcases Africa’s leading global events for the travel trade fair for inbound and outbound diverse offering of services and industry. One of six shows in the WTM markets in Latin America. At its products where African associations portfolio, the Africa show was launched • Amr Sultan, Managing Director of Landmark Sabbour and Alex Kyriakidis, staging, FITUR broke all previous and African meetings industry in 2014 to bring the benefits and President & Managing Director, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International at the participation records with 10,487 signing ceremony of W Cairo professionals can partner to help opportunities of the global industry companies from 165 countries and expertise to travel professionals in the transform our continent. Marriott International, Inc.has "New Cairo is a burgeoning, dynamic regions, 142,642 trade visitors and region. 110,848 visitors from the general announced it has entered into an lifestyle destination in Cairo, and public agreement with Landmark Sabbour we are excited to collaborate with • Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari to bring the W Brand's bold design, Landmark Sabbour to redefine Any African visiting Nigeria will be signature Whatever/Whenever® modern luxury in one of the most able to get a visa on arrival, President service and innovative programming awe-inspiring travel destinations 63rd UNWTO Commission Muhammadu Buhari has announced. to Cairo, underscoring the growing in the world," said Alex Kyriakidis, Africa’s Travel Indaba demand for luxury hotels in . President & Managing Director, Middle for Africa Meeting He told a meeting of African leaders Expected to open in 2024, W Cairo East & Africa, Marriott International. Date: 12-14 May 2020 that it was part of a commitment to Tourism Investment and Date: 25- 27 March 2020 will be situated in 1-Ninety - a 300,000 "This signing not only illustrates ensuring freedom of movement on sqm mixed-use development area our commitment to Egypt but also Business Forum for Africa Venue: International Convention Centre, the continent. in the emerging New Cairo district reinforces the increasing demand for Venue: Seychelles Durban- South Africa (INVESTOUR) featuring retail space, commercial the W Hotels brand in this region and Citizens of countries that belong to the The Commission of Africa (CAF) Africa’s Travel Indaba is one of the and residential components. around the globe." He added regional group Ecowas already have Date: 23rd January, 2020 Meetings are held every year as largest tourism marketing events on visa-free access to Nigeria, but the To be located just 25 kilometres Eng. Amr Sultan, Managing Director part of UNWTO’s statutory events. the African calendar and one of the top IFEMA- Madrid measure announced by the President from Cairo International Airport, the of Landmark Sabbour, added, "We Venue: The UNWTO Regional Commission three ‘must visit’ events of its kind on the should mean other visitors will not new hotel will add its own vibrant W choose to work with those who for Africa is the major institutional global calendar. It showcases the widest The 11th edition of the Tourism need to fill out paperwork before they experience to the ultra-modern urban share our development standards, platform where ministries in charge variety of Africa's best tourism products Investment and Business Forum for arrive. landscape of New Cairo. Known innovative perception of luxury of tourism discuss the latest trends and attracts international buyers and Africa (INVESTOUR), organized jointly for seeking out new destinations community building, and whose of the sector at the continental and media from across the world. Africa’s A notice on the immigration service by the UNWTO, FITUR and Casa África in buzzworthy markets around the objectives align with our own. global level and the implementation Travel Indaba is owned by South African website earlier this year appeared globe, W is poised to welcome guests Our collaboration with Marriot The main objective of the Forum is to of their program of work. Tourism and organised by Synergy to show that visa on arrival for and locals to the new-build locale International represents another promote sustainable development Business Events (Pty) Ltd. Africans was already in place, but the as the city's reputation for ground- milestone in our growth; it further in Africa, and at the same time, to authorities have told the BBC that breaking design grows as fast as its demonstrates our commitment to encourage discussions on investment African visitors will no longer have to skyline. collaborate with industry leaders and business opportunities in Africa. fill out an application form before they and stands as a chance to integrate ITB Berlin leave their home country. When W Cairo opens in 2024, the hotel the unique customer-centric services will embody W Hotels' work hard, play Date: 04-8 March 2020 Although Nigeria's President was of W Hotels into our line of upscale Pearl of Africa Tourism Malawi International Tourism hard philosophy with a signature WET promoting the freedom of movement products in 1-Ninety." Deck (pool deck), AWAY® Spa and FIT ® Venue: Berlin, Germany Expo currently the country is not applying Expo (POATE 2020) Fitness Centre alongside 350 stunning Landmark Sabbour recently launched the same rules to goods coming into The ITB Berlin is the world's largest Date: 23 -25 April 2020 rooms and suites. The hotel is also 1-Ninety. With a total investment of Date: 04-6 February 2020 the country. tourism trade fair. The companies Venue: Bingu Wa Mutharika expected to offer multiple food and EGP 28 Billion ($1.75 Billion). 1-Ninety Venue: Kampala- Uganda represented at the fair include hotels, International Convention Center (BICC) In August, all land borders were closed beverage venues, plenty of spaces to covers 300,000-square-metres and tourist boards, tour operators, system in order to tackle smuggling. The mix and mingle, plus meetings and has a built-up area of 450,000-square- providers, airlines and car rental Malawi Tourism invites you to the 4th measure has brought once-bustling events space which will include a metres including administrative, companies. The ITB Berlin takes place Edition of the Takulandirani Malawi border crossings to a standstill. 500-square-metre Great Room. retail, commercial, and residential annually in March at the Messe Berlin. International Tourism Expo to be held components. from 23rd to 25th April, 2020 at the Bingu Source: BBC.COM Wa Mutharika International Convention 38 VOYAGESAFRIQ Center (BICC) in Lilongwe VOYAGESAFRIQ 39 @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq

Somali Cabinet approves National Tourism Policy Limpopo looks to sports Tourism to consolidate tourism growth The Federal Government of Somalia The Northernmost Province of South capable of hosting major sporting has approved the country’s National Africa, Limpopo is preparing feverishly events. It is the perfect combination of Tourism Policy. This comes after to host the second edition of the sport and safari showcasing some of 11-months of engagements by the International championship from the top Golf resorts in the region’’ Ministry of Information, Culture and 30 January to 2nd February 2019. Tourism with key stakeholders of She added that the event would the sector. The policy provides the Organisers of the event are determined bring positive economic benefits to framework needed to leverage the to use the event to shore up tourism in Limpopo and South Africa in terms of benefits of tourism to support the the province. job creation and GDP contribution. social and economic development of The is a In terms of sports tourism the country. premium golfing event identified development Ms Ndlovu said, “ The policy outlines the development as a strategic platform to position Sports Tourism is right at the centre and enhancement of tourism across Limpopo's tourism brand nationally of our tourism marketing strategy for Somalia over the period 2019-2030 and internationally. It is sanctioned Limpopo. This is because Limpopo and aims to promote the ecotourism, government to appraise itself well document and said it forms a bigger by both the Sunshine Tour and the is an outdoor and eco-tourism growth, inclusiveness, sustainability, with the document. plan of making tourism a key driver European , and will destination, it is very popular for many innovation and partnerships in of the economy of Somalia. He added involve 204 professional golfers from sports fanatics’’. One of the main highlights in the that, Somalia joining UNWTO was around the world. It is a holistic the mainstream economy, while ‘’The plan is to create a sustainable • Nomasonto Ndlovu policy was the establishment of part of a bigger picture to ensure lifestyle golfing spectacle that recommending institutional and sport tourism culture through a CEO - Limpopo Tourism Agency academic institutions, tourism vision the country learn from best global appeals to a broad audience beyond regulatory frameworks in order to successful hosting of this tournament, 2030, and rehabilitating the Ministry practices when it comes to tourism. traditional golf fans. to profile tourism experiences within achieve its intended goals. building and having a fully functioning as well as attracting other major the Waterberg region and surrounding Senior Tourism Advisor to the Cabinet Ministry. Approving the tourism policy means The Limpopo Tourism Agency sporting events to the province. areas bringing more awareness about of the Somali Government Yasir the sector now has the policy which is the destination partner for Hosting the Limpopo Championship the diversity of the province. Deputy Minister of Information, framework that will allow it to develop the Championship is keen to take adds onto the basket of international Baffo mid last year (2019) presented Culture and Tourism Hon. Adan Isak On the prospects for tourism in the a summary of the policy to the further and attract more investment. advantage of the august event to sporting events we already have, Ali recalled the importance of the promote the region as ‘’ A must visit’’ including the UCI cycling race and the province the Chief Executive said ‘‘our destination in South Africa. Tour de Limpopo. We see a greater aim is to continue on the momentum value as such events contributed to we have built about destination The Chief Executive Officer of the increasing tourism spend and the Limpopo in the past couple of years. Hilton Signs Partnership with Groupe Alliance in Tunis Limpopo Tourism Agency Nomasonto number of bed nights in the province. We want to further grow the number Ndlovu says the upcoming tourney Hilton will once again be welcoming of tourists visiting the province, will help market the wonders of On the benefits of the event the CEO guests to the Tunisian capital city provide more experiences that Limpopo. said, the tournament gives opportunity of Tunis after a landmark deal was encourage them to spend more as for increased tourism numbers and signed with Groupe Alliance. The new well achieve longer stays. Limpopo “ It positions Limpopo as an African economic impact including the much management agreement confirms has been at the top of domestic entertainment venue, showcasing the needed job creation. We also expect a flagship Hilton Hotels and Resorts tourism in South Africa, and second in wonders of Limpopo Province through the tournament to promote social Property in the coastal suburb of international visits and this position sport, live entertainment, excursions, cohesion and stimulate partnerships Gammarth. we are determined to maintain’’ she leisure activities and vibrant among key stakeholders. Through the hospitality. It positions the Waterberg observed. An extensive renovation of Le Palace hosting of this tournament we are able District as a good tourist destination hotel will now see the property ‘’Through this tournament and rebranded as Hilton Tunis Gammarth other events like Marula Festival, in 2023. A phased renovation of all Mapungubwe Festival, Royal Heritage guest rooms, suites and public spaces Festival and many others, we aim to (including F&B outlets) will begin in cement our position and offer greater 2021. Once completed, the hotel will alternatives for domestic tourism. boast 296 guest rooms and 25 suites, However there will also be greater seven F&B outlets and ample meeting focus on bidding for and hosting of facilities including a 635sqm ballroom. international association meetings market in style. I look forward to one of the most prestigious hotels in for the province. We are excited that Carlos Khneisser, VP, Development, working with Samir Jaieb and his Tunis." there is an increased awareness Hilton, MENA said: "This is a Hotel we team to deliver an exceptional Hilton about Limpopo as viable Business product." Hilton, which has more than 5,100 have been interested in for some time hotels globally, recently marked its Events destination. More business and we are delighted to have found Samir Jaieb, CEO of Groupe Alliance return to the Moroccan capital with events have chosen Limpopo as the right partner, with the Groupe said: "This hotel is the start of a the opening of Hilton Rabat and has their host destination, including IFES Alliance. We are very confident in their partnership with the Hilton Group, a total of 35 properties open or under World Assembly 2019, IASIA 2020, GFS ability to take the project forward we are excited to work with the hotel development in North Africa. 2020 and many more’’ Ms. Ndlovu and bring Hilton back to the Tunisian chain to bring the Hilton name in concluded.

40 VOYAGESAFRIQ VOYAGESAFRIQ 41 @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq

Ghana Tourism Authority set for Vakantiebuers & FITUR Travel shows

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) GTA will be participating to showcase In a related development, the GTA is set to participate in the upcoming Ghana's unique historical, cultural, will also participate in the Spanish 42nd Vakantiebeurs in Utrecht, ecological attractions and conference International Tourism Trade Fair Netherlands from 10-15 January 2020. facilities. Ghana's attire, cuisine and (FITUR) scheduled for the 22-26th traditional dances will feature at the January 2020 in Madrid, Spain. The The Vakantiebeurs, which is an stand to attract potential visitors Authority intends to market Ghana as annual event in the Netherlands, is a especially those from the Scandinavia. the most preferred tourist destination combined consumer and trade fair for in Africa to the Spanish speaking and tourism, organized by VNU Exhibitions The GTA also hopes its participation European markets. Europe. will help encourage Dutch tour operators to highlight Ghana in their FITUR is a meeting point for tourism The event has been running for over tour circuits by providing them with professionals, who meet to establish three decades and has grown to publicity and promotional materials lines of action, strategies and business become the largest consumer holiday and competitive tour packages on alliances to energize and consolidate fair in the world. regular basis. tourism business, globally. Tourism Vakantiebeurs offers a perfect promotion agencies, operators, This fair will also afford Ghana the hotels, travel agencies, consultants platform for promoting destinations opportunity to inform and sensitize tourist product to consumers. and experts in International tourism investors about investment incentives management and development will This is the first of the selected and opportunities available in the also be present in Madrid for the fair. International fairs this year that the tourism sector.

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@VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq Zimbabwe excites UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin, President of UEFA has described the continued and unsubstantiated reports by international news organisations that Zimbabwe was an unsafe tourist destination as unfortunate. Ceferin and his family left the country after having been in the Southern African nation for more than a week. While in Zimbabwe, Ceferin and his family visited the Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Binga, Great Zimbabwe, Vumba, and the Matopos National Park. In an address at his send off dinner in Harare, Ceferin said he would not hesitate to advise anyone to visit the country as the perception that the INNOVATE. country was not safe for tourists was • UEFA President, Aleksander Ceferin (second right) with Officials of the Zimbabwe untrue. Tourism Authority

C UNITE. Trip Loop awarded 'Best Travel Technology Product' by the World Youth & Student Travel Conference 2019 M Y rip Loop, the innovative travel management software can focus more on creating life- CM THRIVE. transforming experiences for the MY trusted by leading global tour operators, has been awarded 06 - 08 MAY | 2020 | MADAGASCAR students, because Trip Loop helps CY the 'Best Travel Technology Product of 2019' at the World automate daily tasks. T CMY Youth and Student Travel Conference (WYSTC). Organised by the WYSE Travel Corporation, WYSTC is a worldwide conference for Darryl Newby, who is a member of K the panel of judges for GYTA and co- global leaders and stakeholders in the youth and student travel founder of Welcome To Travel said, industry. The prestigious Global Youth and Travel Awards (GYTA) "When I was judging at the GYTA, Trip are presented annually to recognize outstanding performers in Loop immediately stood out. They the youth, student, and educational travel industry. have tour operators and safety at the heart of their product." "We're humbled to have Trip Loop recognized as a game-changing This award helps Trip Loop position solution for the youth travel industry," itself as the leading platform for group Now entering its fifth year, AviaDev Africa is the premier forum that is dedicated to growing said Trip Loop co-founder and CEO, travel management, especially when Diego De Stefano. "This award is a it comes to student and youth travel. connectivity to, from and within the African continent. Bringing together airports, airlines, tourism Earlier this year, Trip Loop solidified a recognition of our commitment to authorities, governments and industry suppliers, AviaDev oers attendees the ability to pre-arrange innovate the experience of travel commercial partnership and strategic providers and travelers," he said. investment from Japan Travel Bureau meetings in professional surroundings, oering the best chance to make a real connection. (JTB), one of the largest tour operators Trip Loop was created from De in the world. JTB seeks to increase Stefano's experience in leading group company wide productivity and travel in more than 20 countries revenue by servicing their travelers REGISTER NOW aviationdevelop.com in his early college days. Trip Loop through Trip Loop. Since its founding helps boost productivity and revenue in 2017, Trip Loop has experienced opportunities for multi-day tour international growth with dozens of operators, and helps group travelers international leading tour operators. easily access their itineraries and As Newby said, "Communication is ORGANISED BY HOST SPONSOR communicate with their guides and key to running any successful tour, • Diego De Stefano one another, keeping them safer and Trip Loop has created the perfect Trip Loop co-founder and CEO and better organized. Tour leaders platform for this."

44 VOYAGESAFRIQ VOYAGESAFRIQ 45 @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq WTM Africa 2020 - Big & Better for Africa’s Bustling Travel and Tourism A New Year of opportunities World Travel Market Africa just keeps getting bigger and better – and a host of exciting innovations for African Youth in Tourism promises to make WTM Africa 2020 even more exciting. The 7th edition on WTM Africa is once again 2020: marked by exciting growth, with expanded areas for Travel Forward (formerly the Travel Technology t’s the beginning of another decade and as the phenomenon has sub-sector alone and is one the youth Show), Equal Africa and the introduction of the WTM Africa Travel & Tourism Industry Awards which been for some time now, global tourism trends are fast changing. can take advantage of. Lately there will shine a global spotlight on African tourism success stories – and so much more. Travelers are becoming more choosy and smarter about the kind are many programmes out there to I help upgrade one’s knowledge and of experience they want to have at destinations; their tastes and Launched as a platform to inspire the capacity in the tourism sector. preferences are gradually shifting and at the heart of it all, technology travel and hospitality industry with Notable among them is the unique the next generation of technology, is playing a significant role in simplifying traveller’s choices. platform the UNWTO World Tourism Travel Forward focusses on future- Students League for human capital proofing travel businesses for development. According to the the digital age, helping ensure organization, The UNWTO World relevance, improving revenue- Tourism Students League, run within generating opportunities and the UNWTO Academy, seeks to providing the opportunity to create an innovative environment do one-on-one business with to empower and motivate travel & innovative tech providers. Travel tourism students to get involved with Forward will take place in a happenings within the industry. dedicated space on the show floor Participants in this programme will at WTM Africa at the Cape Town get real-time experience from the International Convention Centre, tourism industry by creating and giving participants the opportunity presenting innovative solutions for to join sessions focusing on topics Beyond this however, the human inexhaustible source of livelihood. the challenges that the sector is facing pertinent to technology and its influence on the industry, get involved in the interactive exhibition and component that ensures that the nowadays. Challenges will be aligned While the bigger goal is to rope in as with the Sustainable Development get their hands on the industry’s latest tech. traveller gets real experiences at their destination of interest cannot many as possible into the tourism Goals, placing an emphasis on Goals sector, the few who are engaged in The inaugural WTM Africa Travel & Tourism Awards seek to reward individuals as well as small and be overlooked. It’s good to have 8, 12 and 14, in which tourism is information about destinations and tourism needs to empower themselves featured and will match the SDGs large organisations, for powerful and compelling work in promoting tourism across Africa. Themed with skills and build their capacities “Under African Skies”, WTM Africa seeks to celebrate the success of national, regional and city sites online which can be accessed requirements. The ultimate goal of to ensure they remain relevant. In this initiative is to bring young people tourist boards and recognise outstanding private sector companies and individuals. Entries for all 12 by anyone who wishes to visit these attractions. However, once they these times, when conversations on together and build their capacities in categories – from Most Compelling National Tourism Board Story to Most Compelling Foodie Story are on the ground, they require sustainable tourism have become rife the tourism sector as they go through – are currently open, for campaigns executed in the period 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019, human interactions to fully enjoy the and highly pertinent, it is important monthly challenges to determine eligible for the 2020 WTM Africa Travel & Tourism Awards. experiences and appreciate the stories that young people engaged in tourism a winner. Nonetheless, a myriad of are drawn into these discussions to opportunities exist in other fields For more details on each category, visit africa.wtm.com/Awards1. This year, we are thrilled to introduce and history around them. The latest estimates published on International solicit their input; given that they are whether one has acquired formal EQUAL Africa to our show floor. EQUAL Africa stands for EQUAL Love, Rights, Experiences & Youth Day by the UN last year puts the the future – they make sustainability education or not. Opportunities. This new Pink Travel event will be a bolt-on full day conference on 06 April 2020. population of youth in Sub-Saharan germane in the first place. Whether one is involved in the clean Attendees can also look forward to other trending topics and content shares by over 150 speakers Africa at 211 million, a figure expected Goal one and eight of the Sustainable environment campaign, making from around the globe in six different theatres on the show floor. to increase by more than 89% by 2050. Development Goals (SDGs) seek souvenirs or providing informal tour or Our WTM Africa Festivals will once again return allowing visitors from around the globe to experience The World Travel and Tourism Council to eliminate poverty and ensure sight guide services by virtue of one’s the cultures, cuisine and customs of some of our 780+ exhibitors. Megan Oberholzer, Portfolio assert that tourism is responsible for decent work and economic growth acquaintance with the destination, respectively by 2030. These are goals Director: Travel, Tourism & Sports Portfolio for Reed Exhibitions South Africa says that WTM Africa one out of ten jobs globally, and with one is a part of the larger circle of the increasing numbers in the youth that will require the expertise of the youth who are helping shape Africa’s continues to track the latest trends and topics youth in Africa to achieve. These which affect the international travel & tourism population, the sector is surely the tourism continent’s trump card for economic goals can only be realized with a industry. “WTM Africa also has a history of The challenge this year is to double transformation. When all the oil is youth population that is empowered, being a breeding ground for ideas which efforts in whatever field one finds dried up, the mines depleted and gainfully employed, financially oneself as a young person to push have a tremendous positive impact on the other resources exhausted, with its secure and knowledgeable about the worthy agenda of promoting international industry – and we’ll continue high multiplier effect, this sector will their environment well enough tourism and encouraging travel on the to find ways to provide the best possible create millions of additional jobs in to contribute to its growth and continent. Current efforts will not just platforms for the debates and experiences other sectors like agriculture, logistics, sustainability. Again, tourism provides benefit the present day generation, but that drive the future of the industry,” she ICT, and banking. a fertile ground for all these to thrive. With various developments over the also create a more livable and vibrant says. For more information – including how The challenges of today’s Africa past year in the various segments of the Africa for the younger generation who to register for WTM Africa 2020 – visit. africa. especially within the employment tourism sector, especially within MICE will come after the current generation. wtm.com. #WTMA20 runs from 6-8 April 2020 space can be resolved by actively (Meetings Incentives Conferences, Samuel Obeng-Appah at the Cape Town International Convention engaging the teeming youth in Exhibitions), there is an armada of Content Editor/VoyagesAfriq Centre. the sector that guarantees an opportunities for employment in this

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15 - 17 APRIL 2020 Travel & Tourism Media Insight Forum - a journey into navigating media partnerships MUMBAI, INDIA A new decade for travel and tourism out to destinations more. In turn - and crisis recovery. From a destination will bring trends that will impact how driven by story telling - destinations perspective there is a need for better #ITBINDIA2020 destinations market themselves and will look to reach new and existing understanding of current trends and how media will contribute to these audiences, who are more accessible, assisted decision making, especially transitions. How destinations respond with increasing tourism products when faced with budgetary restraints, to these trends is crucial and media and the cost of travel decreasing. complex and technologically driven C will play for far wider reaching role in A destination, especially when rebranding exercises and, perhaps M the changing narrative. faced with budgetary restraints, most importantly, how to navigate Y rebranding exercises and perhaps and respond to a crisis that will impact Branding will be driven by most importantly how to navigate and destination tourism. An opportunity CM contradictory influences - it may respond to a crisis, will look towards lies within better, transparent MY be more targeted but it will reach media as a “co-conspirator”. Even partnerships and the understanding CY larger key target audiences. The in their darkest hour, recovery from of the intrinsic value and role of the CMY world of media is also becoming crisis can be accelerated or hampered media relationship - not only during more multifaceted, offering not just depending on the relationships built times of need but as a continuous K the traditional advertising platforms with the media. partnership that benefits both sides but a variety of other mediums while retaining credibility for both. UNLEASH THE POTENTIAL OF THE INDIAN MARKET which destinations can utilise in Destination management their marketing strategies. Two organisations and government Hosted on the first day (6th April, 2020) elements will define this new decade supported tourism authorities have of the World Travel Market - Africa, in - technology and relationships. also had an unfortunate history of Cape Town, South Africa, the Travel • Connect with over 8,000 travel professionals at #ITBIndia2020 having an inconsistent relationship and Tourism Media Insight Forum will Technology is the engine driving with the media. There can be a bring together key decision-makers • Meet more than 400 exhibitors and 500 buyers in the indian travel market existing media and new players such misunderstanding of what a media from destinations -both global and as global influencers, social media offering entails - the potential return regional - media players, public networks and niche media channels on investment and the costs involved relations agencies and influential • Register today at itb-india.com/visit-register are offering new ways to promote a are understood while the biggest thinkers. Expert panel discussions will destination. Traditional mediums are issue is the expectation that media provide a crucial insight into the grey also affected by technology, with live should provide obligatory good news area that currently defines media and streaming, real-time and embedded coverage, especially at times when destination relationships. Quantifiable BUYERS ELITE PARTNER PROGRAMME (BEPP) reporting and more infotainment destinations are facing challenges to value can further be derived after the options that are both interactive their brand image. session with scheduled one-on-one Association of and targeted. Yet despite the drive of Corporate meetings - where media can prepare Travel Executives technology, the platform between Here is where there exists a and personalise opportunities GLOBAL media and destinations will be knowledge gap between destinations based on pre-posed questions by defined on the basis of relationships and the media. This problem of destinations. and not just the commercially driven misconceptions and unrealistic opportunities. expectations has led to the under- For more information please contact : utilisation of one of the most tried The value of content and the and tested models of destination Jillian Blackbeard at constant requirement for up-to-date marketing - national brand awareness [email protected] or Ailsa information will lead media to reach Pringle at [email protected] and many more... Organised by: Supported by:

48 VOYAGESAFRIQ For more information, visit www.itb-india.com Tel: +65 6635 1188 | Email: [email protected] @VoyagesAfriq @VoyagesAfriq Adaye Kessie Festival in Cote d’Ivoire The 2019 Adaye Kessie Festival came of rich Brong culture which have their to the gathering at the event appealed off in Ivorien town of Bonduku in roots in the Ivorien and Ghanaian to state officials to help make the style filled with pomp and pageantry. cultures. festival a great culture asset which Led by high ranking Officials of the can also create employment in the Government of Cote d’ivoire, the The President of the Adaye Kessie catchment area. festival got underway with the display Foundation Bini Outarra in an address

50 VOYAGESAFRIQ VOYAGESAFRIQ 51 @VoyagesAfriq South Africa and Ethiopia sign visa waiver for Diplomatic and Service Passport holders outh Africa and Ethiopia have signed an agreement on the Strengthening Trade Relations waiver of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic or On matters of trade, the principals official/service passports. welcomed the presence of South S African companies and business entities in Ethiopia, including investment and trade links, and it was agreed to enhance bilateral investments between the two countries. At the same time, the principals affirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in trade and investment between business entities in South Africa and Ethiopia, as well as agreeing to cooperate in the field of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) due to their important role in job creation.

• Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed Ali and President Cyril Ramaphosa “There was also agreement to shake hands after signing the Agreement strengthen cooperation in the President Cyril Ramaphosa and Prime The two countries signed a area of mining, deep mining and Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali said in a joint memorandum of understanding on mineral beneficiation to strengthen communiqué, which is expected to cooperation in the field of tourism. agricultural cooperation so as ease the travel of officials, and will The two Heads of State anticipate to enhance food security and to contribute to further strengthening the MoU will be key to the creation of work towards addressing skills bilateral relations. employment opportunities, especially development through the exchange for the youth in both countries. of best practices, among others,” the The signing of the agreement communique said. emanates from the official visit by The two countries also signed a Prime Minister Ali to South Africa. The memorandum on cooperation in the Migration two-day visit was the first State level field of health. The two Heads of State also discussed exchange of visits between the two the issue of Ethiopians residing in countries. “The memorandum will be important in providing high quality health South Africa and agreed that the Prime Minister Ali was also a guest at services for the citizens of their two countries need to cooperate on the 108th anniversary of the founding respective countries, especially the this matter.They further agreed on of the African National Congress on 11 young and the elderly,” read the the need for both countries to work January 2020. communiqué. together to address illegal migration, human trafficking and smuggling. President Ramaphosa was accompanied by the Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation; Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; State Security; Home Affairs; Trade, Industry and Competition; Higher Education, Science and Technology, and for the signing ceremony, the Minister of Health and the Minister of Tourism. Prime Minister Abiy’s delegation comprised of Ministers of Social and Labour Affairs, Mines and Petroleum and the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

• Ethiopia's State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Hirut Zemene & South Africa's Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane signing the Agreement

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