The Untold Momentum Of FHS Africa 2026

Africa’s Hospitality Revolution Begins Here, The Bold Story Of FHS Africa 2026

The Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa) 2026 unfolded in spectacular fashion from 31st March to 1st April 2026 at the elegant Radisson Blu Hotel Nairobi Upper Hill, preceded by a refined welcome reception on 30th March at Kofisi Kaskazi. The reception set the tone for two powerful days of high-level engagement, bringing together hospitality leaders, investors, policymakers, and innovators for a shared mission—to shape the next era of Africa’s hospitality growth. From the outset, the atmosphere was charged with ambition, collaboration, and forward-thinking energy.

The summit officially commenced with keynote remarks from Mr. David Gitonga, Tourism Secretary of the Republic of Kenya, who highlighted Kenya’s growing influence as a continental leader in tourism innovation, investment attraction, and sustainable hospitality development. Over the course of the summit, delegates participated in insightful panel discussions and strategic presentations focusing on industry transformation. Key themes included sustainable tourism practices, digital disruption in hospitality, investment expansion across Africa, and the evolving dynamics of travel and accommodation markets on the continent.

One of the most significant moments of the summit was the signing of a landmark development agreement between The First Group Hospitality and MIDROC Investment Group. This major collaboration will support the development and management of 10 hospitality properties in Ethiopia, marking a bold step in regional expansion. The agreement was presented by Mr. David Thomson alongside Mr. Solomon Zewdu Damtie, in the presence of leading global investors and senior industry executives.

Mr. David Thomson, Senior Vice President – Development of The First Group Hospitality, & Mr. Solomon Zewdu Damtie, Deputy CEO of MIDROC Investment Group – Hospitality Cluster,

The summit also celebrated excellence and visionary leadership through the presentation of the FHS Africa Leadership Award to Ms. Vimbai Masiyiwa. The prestigious recognition was presented by Mr. Peter Greenberg and Mr. Matthew Weihs, honoring her exceptional contribution to tourism development and her role in shaping Africa’s hospitality narrative. The award underscored the growing importance of bold leadership in driving transformation and innovation across the sector.

FHS Africa Award for Leadership, presented to Ms. Vimbai Masiyiwa, Co-Founder & CEO of Batoka Africa by Mr. Peter Greenberg, Travel Editor at CBS News, & Mr. Matthew Weihs, Commercial Director at The Bench

The summit concluded on a high note with an elegant gala dinner hosted by the Westmont Hospitality Group at the Radisson Blu Upper Hill Nairobi. The evening offered delegates a chance to celebrate key milestones, strengthen relationships, and reflect on the insights gained throughout the event. It was a refined and memorable close to two days of impactful dialogue and collaboration.

The success of the summit was powered by its extensive network of supporters: Strategic Partners (BWH Hotels, ClubMed, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Radisson Hotel Group, ACCOR), Headline Partners (KOFISI, Uganda Tourism Board, Knight Frank), and numerous Partners including The CityBlue Collection, The Social Hotel, Gary Design, STR, Cosar, Clique Hospitality, Rotana, QUO, ALEPH Hospitality, AIRE Hotel Group, Klora, Choice Hotels, and Millat Investments. Other contributors included Networking Partners (Mic Global Risks), Official Carrier (Kenya Airways), Event Ambassadors (PKF), Pan Africa PR Partners (Kleber Group, APO Group), Media Partners (Go Places Digital, Breaking Travel News, Travel Times, Travel News East Africa, TTW), Charity Partner (Raising Futures Kenya), Supporters (FEDHASA, AH Report, Africa CCC, SADC, It’s a Reality), and the Host Partner (Weston Hotel Group). Additional supporters such as Trainavut 15, Planet, Pan African Voice, Tuko, and Travelshoppe amplified the summit’s reach. And throughout it all, Go Places captured the event live, ensuring every moment was shared with the world.

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