Unveiling The Insights: Our Journey At AHIF Forum
The recently concluded Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF) brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts from around the world to explore the challenges and opportunities in Africa’s hospitality sector. The forum, held in Nairobi, Kenya, was a vibrant platform for insightful discussions, networking, and sharing innovative ideas. As representatives of Go Places, we had the privilege of attending the event and immersing ourselves in the dynamic sessions that unfolded during the first day. Let’s take a closer look at the highlights and key takeaways from the initial sessions of this remarkable gathering.
Navigating Global Risks and the Hospitality Industry:
Pat Thaker, Editorial and Regional Director MEA at The Economist Intelligence Unit, shared invaluable insights during the session on navigating global risks and their impact on Africa’s hospitality industry. The discussion shed light on the challenges faced by the sector and the strategies required to mitigate risks and seize opportunities amidst a changing global landscape.
Keynote Address:
Hon. Peninah Malonza OGW, the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Tourism & Wildlife in Kenya, delivered a powerful keynote address. Her speech highlighted the immense potential of Africa’s tourism sector and the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth, attracting investments, and preserving the continent’s natural heritage.
Collaborating for a Sustainable Future:
Government partnerships play a crucial role in developing tourism regions. Peter Greenberg, Travel Editor at CBS News, moderated a session featuring Hon. Peninah Malonza OGW, Nqobizita Mangaliso Ndlovu, Minister of Environment, Tourism and Hospitality Industry in Zimbabwe, and Haitham Mattar, Special Advisor at UNWTO and Managing Director MEA & South West Asia at IHG Hotels & Resorts. The panel discussed the importance of collaboration between governments, the private sector, and international organizations to create sustainable tourism destinations.
AHIF Creating Impact Awards – Leadership Award:
The forum recognized exceptional leaders in the industry, and the Leadership Award was presented to Jameel Verjee, Founder & CEO of CityBlue Hotels (a member of The Diar Group). The session, moderated by Matthew Weihs, celebrated Verjee’s outstanding contributions and highlighted the positive impact of visionary leaders in shaping Africa’s hospitality landscape.
Global and Regional Outlook on the Real Estate Sector:
Thomas Mundy, Head of Capital Markets Strategy & Research EMEA at JLL, provided valuable insights into the broader real estate sector and its implications for hospitality investment. The discussion analyzed regional trends and opportunities, equipping participants with the knowledge needed to make informed investment decisions.
Networking Lunch and Unlocking Investment Potential in Africa:
Participants reconvened for a networking lunch, providing a platform for informal discussions and relationship building. Following the lunch, Wayne Godwin, Head of East Africa at JLL and Head of JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group, Africa, moderated a session on unlocking investment potential in Africa. The panel, comprising industry experts such as Hamza Farooqui, Olivier Granet, Funke Okubadejo, and Reinhard Winsauer, explored strategies for maximizing returns in Africa’s growing market.
Insight on Africa: What the Numbers Tell Us:
Thomas Emanuel, Senior Director at STR, shared valuable statistical insights into Africa’s hospitality industry, unveiling important trends and benchmarks. The session provided attendees with a deeper understanding of the region’s performance metrics, enabling them to make data-driven decisions.
Building a Net Zero Future: Addressing Challenges through ESG Strategies:
Alyshia Mangalji, Vice President of Europe & Africa at Westmont Hospitality Group, moderated a session focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies in the hotel industry. The panel, featuring Nasra Nanda, Elizabeth Ndinya, Anne Osir, and Jameel Verjee, explored the challenges and opportunities associated with building a net-zero future, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and responsible practices.
Unveiling Prospects and Tackling Hurdles of Hotel Development in Africa:
Christopher Lund, Executive Director and Head of Hospitality & Tourism at Collier’s, moderated a panel discussion on hotel development in Africa. Charbel Boutros, Karim Cheltout, Khalil Manji, and Dupe Olusola shared their insights and experiences, highlighting the potential and hurdles in developing successful hotel projects across the continent.
The first day of the AHIF Forum provided an enriching experience for attendees, encompassing a diverse range of sessions that delved into critical topics and challenges facing Africa’s hospitality industry. From insightful discussions on sustainability, investment potential, and technological advancements to inspiring keynote speeches and recognition of exceptional leaders, the forum set the stage for a fruitful and impactful event. As representatives of Go Places, we eagerly await the subsequent sessions of the AHIF Forum, where we expect to gain further insights and contribute to the collective efforts in shaping the future of Africa’s hospitality industry.
Here are some sharing moments of Day 1
As we reflect on the second day of this exceptional event, we are excited to share the intricate details of the sessions that captivated us:
Inspiring Change: The Rise of Transformational Travel:
Moderated by Anne Biging, CEO & Founder of Healing Hotels of the World, and joined by Rajan Datar and Vimbai Masiyiwa, this thought-provoking session explored the growing trend of transformational travel. The discussion centred around how travel experiences can foster personal growth, create a positive impact, and foster cultural exchange.
In a closed-door session facilitated by the Westmont Institute of Tourism & Hospitality, Sérgio Guerreiro and Gitonga M’Mbijjewe led an engaging conversation on developing talent for the evolving African hospitality landscape. Participants examined the importance of education, training, and mentorship to nurture the next generation of industry leaders.
Hamza Farooqui, Founder & CEO of Millat Investments (Pty) Ltd, shared invaluable insights on navigating the competitive tourism market. Attendees gained practical knowledge about building successful tourism enterprises, leveraging unique selling points, and creating memorable guest experiences.
Daniel Silke, Political Economy Analyst, and Trevor Ward, Managing Director of W Hospitality Group, presented an enlightening overview of upcoming projects and trends in Africa’s hospitality market. They highlighted key growth areas, emerging markets, and potential investment opportunities.
Mark Dunford, CEO of Knight Frank, moderated this essential plenary session. Panellists, including David Damiba, Koome Gikunda, Srividya Jagannathan, and Saad Rahman, explored financing challenges and innovative solutions for hospitality projects. Discussions revolved around attracting investment, structuring deals, and ensuring sustainable financial models.
Rajan Datar returned as moderator for a session focused on the significance of human skills in the hospitality industry. Accompanied by panellists Rose Bakri, Artur Gerber, Assia Riccio, and Paul Stevens, they highlighted the importance of nurturing talent, enhancing employee engagement, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.
Peter Greenberg, Travel Editor at CBS News, led an empowering discussion on gender equality and women’s empowerment in the hospitality sector. The esteemed panellists, including Lara Dupre, Clemence Lormand, and Vimbai Masiyiwa, shared their inspiring journeys, discussed strategies to break gender barriers, and emphasized the need for more inclusive leadership.
Under the moderation of Mmatšatši Ramawela, Director of Gecko Afrika Holdings and Chapter President of the International Institute for Peace through Tourism Southern Africa (IIPTSA), this session explored the rise of alternative accommodations. Dami Adepoju, Mohamed Awadalla, Merilee Karr, and Khalil Ketari examined the impact of platforms such as Airbnb and the challenges and opportunities they present for the traditional hospitality sector.
There was a Handover Ceremony 2024 under the guidance of Matthew Weihs, Managing Director of The Bench.
Here Are Sharing Moments Of Day 2
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