Redefining African Hospitality & Food Excellence, Highlights From The Hotel Expo 2025

Building The Future Of Tourism & Food, The Hotel Expo 2025 Key Takeaways

The Hotel Expo 2025 and Africa Food Show 2025 successfully took place from August 6th to 8th at the iconic Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Kenya. This highly anticipated event brought together key players in the hospitality, tourism, and food sectors from across Africa and beyond. The opening ceremony set a vibrant tone for the three-day event, with media personality and award-winning journalist Ms. Lilian Muli serving as the Master of Ceremony. The session featured impactful remarks from distinguished guests and industry leaders, signaling the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving Africa’s hospitality and culinary industries forward.

Opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Edwin Masivo, Country Director at Global Exhibitions Inc., who emphasized the significance of regional partnerships in elevating standards and unlocking growth opportunities. Additional remarks came from influential voices including; Dr. James Mwaura, Chairman of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce – Nairobi County; Frank Mbogo, Chairman of MELTA; Ms. Susan Ongalo, CEO of Kenya Tourism Federation; and Mr. Alex Tunoi, Regional Marketing Manager at Kenya Tourism Board. Their insights set the stage for a dynamic expo centered on trade, investment, and sustainable growth in tourism and food services.

A major highlight was the keynote address by Hon. Rebecca Miano, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Tourism & Wildlife, who served as the event’s Chief Guest. She lauded the event’s efforts in creating a platform for knowledge exchange and business networking while encouraging deeper private-public partnerships to spur economic transformation. Also present were senior government and industry representatives including Mr. Nobert K. Talam from the Tourism Regulatory Authority and Mr. James Mwaura, CEO of KICC, further cementing the event’s national significance.

On Day 3, the morning session featured a standout panel discussion titled: “Power Panel: The Women Shaping African Hospitality.” This session spotlighted the women who are breaking barriers and influencing policy and business across the hospitality sector. Notably, Ms. Nev Jiwani, Group Managing Director at Leisure & Travel Guides East Africa (Go Places), was among the esteemed panelists. Her participation underscored the importance of media, marketing, and leadership in shaping the future of tourism and travel in the region. Other key speakers included Ms. Susan Ongalo- CEO Kenya Tourism Federation, Ms. Rhoda Mwikali – Operations Manager, Norfolk Towers & Longonot Places, Ms. Catherine Gachie – National Vice Chair -Kenya Association of Women in Tourism, and Maureen Ogola- National President, SKAL Kenya , all of whom brought diverse perspectives to a powerful and inspiring conversation.

Throughout the three days, hundreds of attendees engaged with a wide array of exhibitors showcasing innovations, products, and services across the hospitality and food value chains. Notable exhibitors included Mezani, TOSK, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI), Yuefu Food Ltd, Snow Village, Global Exhibitions, Avenews, and many others. The booths served as hubs of connection, offering attendees opportunities to explore new technologies, taste gourmet products, and discuss potential partnerships.

Go Places Media played an instrumental role in covering the event, providing high-quality multimedia coverage and live updates that amplified the event’s reach across platforms. Their coverage ensured that those who could not attend in person still had access to key moments, highlights, and expert insights. As the curtains closed on the 2025 editions of the Hotel & Hospitality Expo and Africa Food Show, there was a resounding sense of achievement and optimism for the continued growth of Africa’s hospitality and culinary industries.