The VA TourismPodcast

In this episode, recorded on April 4th in the stunning Seychelles, I sit down with Stéphane Duchenne, General Manager of Constance Ephelia Resort, and Markus Ultsch-Unrath, the resort's Sustainability, Health, and Safety Manager. In this chat, we explore their recent milestone achievement — becoming the first recipient of the Platinum Award at the Sustainable Seychelles Recognition & Certification Ceremony. Our wide-ranging conversation reveals how sustainability at Constance Ephelia goes far beyond carbon offsets and recycling bins. As Stéphane eloquently puts it, it's a philosophy rooted in the land, sung by the local community, and seen in the eyes of children playing among the mangroves. as Markus says: “We're not just here to protect nature — we're here to pass it on.”

In today's conversation, Mahi Tadesse, founder and CEO of HallPax, offers an in-depth look at Africa's MICE sector. She discusses the vast opportunities the continent's business events sector presents for destinations and introduces the HallPax marketplace. According to Mahi, this new platform will help MICE stakeholders organize events seamlessly while providing vendors with opportunities to maximize their expertise

In this episode, we unpack the opportunities that new and emerging markets such as the Central Eastern European Market offers African destinations. In this exclusive conversation recorded on the final day at the Africa showcase CEE roadshow in Warsaw, Poland Louise Leach, Sales Manager,  Portfolio: Responsible for developing new source market at Gondwana Collection is very optimistic of growing the numbers from the CEE to fill out the group's low season moment. She maintained Namibia offers exciting and unique products beyond the safaris.

In today's episode, recorded at the iconic Windhoek City Museum on Friday, March 21st, 2025, the VA Tourism Podcast sat down for an exclusive conversation with Sebulon Chicalu, the newly appointed CEO of the Namibia Tourism Board. Just hours after the historic inauguration of Namibia's first female president, Chicalu shared his thoughts on the exciting new chapter for the country, highlighting the boost to the destination's brand equity and the momentum it will bring to the board's renewed focus on MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions). In this chat, he outlined his vision for the organization, emphasizing the importance of consolidating core source markets, diversifying products, promoting domestic tourism, and ensuring high-quality standards, among other strategic priorities. A seasoned business strategist with extensive expertise in the travel and tourism sector, Mr Chicalu brings a wealth of experience in tourism product innovation and development. He is also a GALLUP-certified Strengths and Talent Development Coach, a mentor and an expert in employee engagement. His dynamic skill set spans roles as a moderator, negotiator, coordinator and public speaker. Before joining NTB, Mr Chicalu served as the Director of Tourism and Gaming at the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. Throughout his career, he has been instrumental in developing and launching various hospitality and tourism services, spearheading major business events, and providing strategic leadership in executive management and board-level roles within the tourism and hospitality industries. Academically, he holds a Master of Business Administration (MsM), a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration, and a Diploma in Marketing Management. Additionally, he is certified in Corporate Governance and as a GALLUP Clifton-Strengths Coach.    

In this conversation recorded in Warsaw, Poland on the margins of the Africa Showcase CEE Event, the VA Tourism Podcast caught up with the Commercial Director of Takims Holidays, Abbas Takim. Abbas shared his immense inisghts into the CEE market where he has been operating for over a decade and encouraged African destinations to explore the opportunities in this emerging source market for the region. He delves deep into the operations of his Family run business and it's landmark 75th anniversary this year  

In today's episode, the CEO of the Zambia Tourism Agency, Matongo Matamwandi speaks extensivley on the growth trajectory of the tourism sector in Zambia. Speaking to me exclusivley at this year's ITB Berlin, Matongo described Zambia's participation as a resounding success and highlighted the country's tourism offerings to the German and wider European market. The ZTA boss also talks about the upcoming Zambia Travel Expo,  UN Tourism CAF-CAM Summit, it's sustainability push and more.  

In this episode I speak with Agnieszka Lewandowska, Director of Tour de Family, a leading Polish outbound company specializing in African travel. Discussing the dynamics of the Polish and Central European tourism market at the recently concluded Africa Showcase CEE Roadshow, Agnieszka highlights the growing interest in Africa as a travel destination, particularly in Namibia and South Africa, alongside established interest in Kenya and Tanzania. She advises African destinations to focus on educating the Polish market to further tap into this potential.  

In today's episode, we discuss this year's Hospitality and Tourism Education Summit, set to take place from April 7-9, 2025, in Lusaka, Zambia. My guest, Mrs. Anne Kaoma-Sibanda, Executive Director of the Zambia Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Studies, reflects on the successes of last year's summit and highlights the new features of this year's event. Anne is confident that the summit will address skills gaps and foster stronger collaboration within the industry.

In today's episode recorded in Warsaw, Poland, the  Regional Marketing Manager of Durban Tourism Musa Ndabeni discusses the city of Durban's tourism plans to tap into the central European market. She is impressed with the incredible interest shown in the destination during the week's interaction with the travel trade during the Africa showcase CEE roadshow in Prague, Bucharest and Warsaw. Musa is a Travel and Marketing specialist with vast experience in Corporate New Business & Brand Development, she has worked for multiple Giant Brands including HRG Rennies, Tourvest Group and TWF currently exploring Digital Marketing opportunities for Destination Promotion opportunities.

In today's conversation Kenneth Kapitako, CEO of Sandwich Dune Tours and an experienced tourism entrepreneur, explores the shifting dynamics of Namibia's tourism sector. As a prominent industry leader, he shares insights on market trends, challenges, and the strategies driving the sector's resilience and growth in 2024.

In this episode, Sam Munda, Managing Director for Kenya and VP of Africa at Travisory, delves into the evolving landscape of Africa's border security and digital travel solutions. With over 30 years of experience in aviation ICT and transport security, Sam shares insights on seamless border management, visa accessibility, and the future of hassle-free travel across the continent. Sam Munda joined Travizory in 2020 and is the Managing Director for the Kenya Office. He leads the company's commercial strategy across Africa, supporting governments in digitizing borders to enhance security, efficiency, and traveler experience. His work also enables real-time data access for better decision-making. With over 30 years of experience in ICT, aviation, and transport security, Sam has held leadership roles in Africa with a major global aviation ICT provider. He is an Electronics Engineer, having graduated from ENAC (École Nationale de l'Aviation Civile) in Toulouse, France, and holds an MBA from the University of South Africa (UNISA).

In this episode, recorded in Madrid on February 03, 2025 during the Africa Showcase Southern Europe event, On Show Solutions founders Jacqui Reynolds and Amanda Margison reflect on nearly two decades of shaping a marketplace for Africa's tourism sector. They share their journey of promoting African tourism products across Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and within Africa itself, using dynamic roadshows and strategic marketing networks to make a lasting impact

In this episode, the first for the year, we discuss Africa's potential as a sought after luxury travel destination. My guest Penny Fraser,  Sales, Sponsorship & Partnerships Director for RX Africa dives into the luxury space and also gives a sneak peek of this year's ILTM Africa slated for 7-9 April 2025 Penny is an experienced Luxury travel personality – from her days as part of the launch team of Cape Grace Hotel voted by Conde Nast Traveller as the best Hotel in the World during her time there, she has also spent time at WESGRO and running her own Hospitality Consulting business for many years and now Sales, Sponsorship & Partnerships Director for RX Africa. Penny also overseas the Sustainability Portfolio for RX Africa.    

In today's episode, the Vice President at ICF Foundation Coura Badiane explores the transformative power of coaching in tourism, showing how it fosters social impact, drives growth, and empowers individuals and organizations.

In today's conversation recorded on the margins of the 63rd ICCA Congress in Abu Dhabi, I sat down with Kathleen Lihanda, Director for Social Impact at the International Coaching Federation (ICF) to unpack how their partnership with ICCA is empowering leaders through coaching and driving impactful change in the tourism and Business Events Sectors.

Today's episode recorded at Abu Dhabi on 24th October on the final day of the 63rd International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) delves deep into African participation at this year's event. The conversation starts with an overview of the congress and how Africa can grow its share of the Association's business with the Regional Director of Africa at ICCA Frank Murangwa. Glenton de Kock, CEO of (SAACI), reflected on the Congress's content and the need for a louder African voice while CEO of Rwanda Convention Bureau Janet Karemera and SRC Agency Lead Doris Parsons stressed the importance of visibility, collaboration, and investment in positioning Africa as a competitive force in the global market.   

In this conversation, Senthil Gopinath, the CEO of ICCA shares his reflections on the success of the incredible 63rd ICCA Congress, the innovative new model introduced, and the vital role of global leadership in shaping the future of the industry. Senthil Gopinath is the Chief Executive Officer of International Congress and Convention Association ICCA. He has over two decades of experience and expertise in the meetings, association, and leisure industries. He has held a wide spectrum of positions in the meetings industry. Such as the CEO of the Convention Bureau of Sri Lanka, the Vice President of Kuoni. He moved to Dubai in 2006 and has been working for Congress Solutions International, the Professional Congress Organizer (PCO) arm of Emirates Group, eventually holding responsibility for wide-ranging business development, sales, and operations functions for some of the largest international meetings held in the UAE, including World Diabetes Congress, UITP, and World Economic Forum. He has been involved in winning many Congress bids for Dubai, UAE, and the Region. Academically he holds a European Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master's in Business Administration. Currently reading for PhD. Senthil has been working with the global association fraternity for more than a decade and has in-depth knowledge of global association segment development. A passionate strategist. Being creative and adaptable to the constantly changing environment are his key strengths. Always aims at professionalism and focuses on achieving the organizational objectives and financial goals. ICCA -the International Congress and Convention Association- is the global community and knowledge hub for the international association meetings industry.  

My conversation today, is with advisory board member Essence of Africa Leanne Heigh.  Our chat today will explore the inspiration behind this exciting project, what sets it apart from other travel shows, and the key factors driving its success. Leanne shares her insights on the gaps in the market, the unique African business environment, and why quality meetings and global buyers are at the heart of Essence of Africa. Profile I arrived in Africa in February 1994 as a young backpacker, I stayed on as a Tour Leader and within a frighteningly short period was managing the largest overland truck company on the continent. In November of 2013, my husband James and I were asked to become joint CEOs of Tourvests operations in East Africa, Tourvest had just bought out the minority shareholders. It also coincided with the worst trading period in the history of East African tourism as the industry reeled from terror attacks and then ebola outbreaks.   Tourvest emerged stronger from these events and restructured. I remained as CEO for the Lemala and Adrift brands which have since evolved into a group of 10 properties operating in Tanzania and Uganda, and an exciting activity brand offering exhilarating adventures on the River Nile. We are all incredibly proud of the team members that make up the #spiritoflemala and the positive impact that our tourism work has on our staff, their families and the communities from which they are drawn. Lemala is a happy place and I am proud to play my part in its work.  

In today's episode my guest  Clive Chinwada, President of the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe discusses the exciting growth of Zimbabwe's tourism sector, with a spotlight on key destinations like Victoria Falls and how the country is evolving its offerings to appeal to a wider range of travelers.

In today's episode Sandra Carvão, Director of Market Intelligence and Competitiveness at UN Tourism takes a deep dive into the recent grant program announced by UN Tourism and TUI Foundation focused on rural development and tourism. Sandra tells me the grants aim to connect artisans with the tourism value chain, giving them the resources and guidance needed to grow their crafts and impact local economies. The pilot countries are Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, The Gambia, Tunisia, and Zambia

In today's episode, we explore the impact of Fairtrade Africa in shaping sustainable trade across the continent. My Guest is Paul Colditz, the commercial director at Fairtrade International. From uplifting small-scale farmers to driving ethical business practices, this conversation delves into how Fairtrade ensures fair prices, environmental responsibility, and community development.    

My conversation today looks at the expectations of Africa's tourism industry players ahead of the maiden Essence of Africa travel show scheduled for 2-4 December 2024 in Nairobi,Kenya. In this chat, Rosemary Muthoni Director of sales at Sopa lodges tells me the track record of Onshow Solutions and ATTA, organisers of the show makes her confident of meeting the right buyers from the key source markets. Rosemary Muthoni brings vast experience and expertise to the Sopa Lodges team, having worked with renowned hotel brands in Kenya and across the East African hospitality industry. As the Director of Sales, Rosemary leverages her extensive knowledge to drive business growth and build strong trade partner relations.  Her leadership skills and innovative approach ensure that the Sales team delivers efficient and personalized services, while contributing to the company's growth. Rosemary's passion for hospitality and her commitment to excellence align perfectly with the Core Values of Sopa Lodges, ensuring that guests continue to enjoy unforgettable experiences at all Sopa properties.  A visionary leader, Rosemary holds a degree/master's in Accounting, Finance, Business Management, and Business Administration from KCA University and the Kenya Institute of Management, respectively. She also holds a qualification in Strategic Management from the European Business University of Luxembourg and remains continuously committed to staying ahead of industry trends and innovations. Her expertise in the hospitality industry makes her a vital part of the Sopa Lodges' leadership team. 

In today's episode, the owner of SA based White Shark Projects 'Jessica Smit' shares her expectation of the maiden Essence of Africa Travel show scheduled to take place from 2-4 December in Nairobi, Kenya. The owner of White Shark Projects 'Jessica Smit' is a conservationist focusing on the behaviour and welfare of the marine life that we have the pleasure of working with daily. In her own words ''To have the ability to observe our wild marine life free swimming in their natural environment is an honour that we shall never exploit, or harm only observe with respect and admiration''. White Shark Projects is a renowned global research organisation founded in 1989. It is dedicated to the conservation of South Africa's shark species and our oceans. Shark cage diving and viewing not only provides a unique opportunity to witness the wonder of our beautiful sharks in a safe and professional environment, but also serves as a conservation education platform to help protect these vulnerable animals. Through our shark cage diving excursions, volunteer programme and vital community outreach projects, we aim to give people the knowledge to help conserve sharks and the environment to create a more sustainable future.  

Today's episode takes a deep dive into the Associations' Business as part of the MICE ecosystem. My guest, Jeffers Miruka the Founding President of the African Society of Association Executives (AfSAE)highlights the crucial role of the Association sub-sector in the development of MICE in Africa. Jeffers says associations provide significant value to members including skills enhancements and networking opportunities among others. He rounds up the chat on the upcoming 2024 Africa Associations Summit to be held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania from 29th – 30th October.  Mr. Jeffers Miruka is the founding president of the African Society of Association Executives (AfSAE). He is also the Managing Director of the African Associations Management Company (AFAMCO) and the Secretary General of the Association for Kenya Business Events (AKBE). With a career dedicated to advancing Association Management as a profession in Africa, Jeffers is a respected global leader and mentor in the field.  

My conversation today is with the CEO of Dana Tours Natalie Tenzer-Silva . Dana Tours, Mozambique's leading Inbound operator has in the last 25 years + worked tirelessly to make the destination a must-visit place in Africa in spite of the challenges. In this Chat, Natalie takes me through her journey and why she believes the time has come for Mozambique to make MICE a major part of its tourism development.   Natalie Tenzer-Silva was born in South Africa and moved to Mozambique in the early 90s where she learned Portuguese. Natalie has worked in the tourism industry since 1994 first managing a large travel agency and then becoming Mozambique's largest inbound tour operator. Her language skills and capacity as a team leader have earned her respect both within Dana Tours, the Mozambican business community and the Government having been a member of the Chamber of Commerce Tourism Committee. She spends her spare time with her husband and two boys.

In this conversation, the CEO of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa explains in detail the landmark ruling of SA's Competition Commission on the Removal of price parity clauses between online travel agent (OTA) Booking.com and contracted accommodation providers in South Africa and what it means for the industry especially for Tourism SMEs.

In this episode, the Acting CEO of the Namibia Tourism Board Charmaine Mathues reflects on the Board's successful ‘'Reason to Visit Namibia'' Roadshow in Botswana. Charmaine believes the partnerships formed and the B2B engagements with the trade, coupled with the announcement by Air Botswana to launch direct flights between the two cities will further boost trade and tourism into Namibia and the sub-region.

Today's episode discusses Mozambique's potential as a growing MICE Destination. The General Manager of Radisson Blu Hotel Maputo Rob Van der Velden weighs in on the country's Meetings space and why he thinks a lot needs to be done to address the challenges to unlock its full potential. Rob gives his impressions on FIKANI, Air connectivity and the diversification of its offering.

In today's episode recorded on the sidelines of FIKANI Tourism Fair in Mozambique, the newly appointed Director for Africa of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Frank Murangwa outlines his vision for Africa and discusses the continent's readiness to make MICE and Business events sectors key economic drivers.

My conversation today takes a look at Uganda's tourism sector and how its soon to be launched 10-year Tourism development plan incorporates elements such as gastronomy tourism. In a chat with the CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board Lilly Ajarova at the recently held UN Tourism Forum for Gastronomy tourism in Zimbabwe, she mentioned how the conference was timely and the take outs with help them fine tune their gastronomy and agro tourism sectors.  

On Today's episode, the Director General of the Basque Culinary Centre Joxe Mari Aizega unpacks the potential and opportunities for gastronomy tourism in Africa. Speaking on his experience during the first UN Tourism maiden gastronomy forum held in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Joxe Mari said he was excited by the genuine interests and commitments by African tourism to develop the sector and place African gastronomy on the world stage.  

In today's episode, the Minister of Tourism of the Democratic Republic of Congo Didier Musanga M'pambia opens up on his vision for the sector. Amongst the list of innovations he wants to introduce is to initiate a Tourism Village project, an aggressive domestic tourism campaign, and consolidate its rich relationship with UN Tourism to support capacity building and human resource development for its tourism sector.   

On the sidelines of the just ended 1st UN Tourism Regional Forum for Gastronomy Tourism in Zimbabwe, the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Nabeela Tunis reflects on the outcomes of the 67 Commission for Africa Meeting in Zambia, 2nd Brand Africa conference and finally the role of the Women in Tourism Leadership Africa Committee in ensuring gender parity in the tourism sector. Minister Nabeela also gave an update on Sierra Leone's Tourism sector following the launch of its Masterplan

Ahead of the 2nd UN Tourism Conference on Brand Africa scheduled to be held from 22-24 July in Livingstone, Zambia, I caught up with the CEO of the Zambia Tourism Agency Matongo Matamwandi to give me a sneak peek of the gathering. He tells me the Tourism Board CEO's Think Tank and the launch of the UN Tourism Doing Business Investing in Zambia Guidelines will be major highlights of the 2-day event.  

In today's episode, Nigeria's Minister of Tourism Lola Ade-John reveals her plans to use the technology to transform the country's tourism sector. Attending UN Tourism event for the first time in Barcelona, Spain she added that, her ministry is working closely with her counterpart at culture to leverage Nigeria's rich cultural heritage.

My conversation today is with Professor Bhaso Ndzendze an Associate Professor of international Relations at the University of Johannesburg, where he is also Vice-Dean of Internationalisation in the Faculty of Humanities. He discusses the Africa by Bus project which he says combines cultural immersion and academic engagements to enhance the learning skills of students.    

My conversation is with Temwa Kanjadza, Head of Sales Marketing and Distribution at Malawi's Sunbird Tourism PLC. Temwa gives an overview of the hotel group's incredible role in Malawi's tourism sector and reveals the hotel's latest announcement, the construction of its state-of-the-art convention centre and its MICE focus for the domestic and regional markets.

In our special coverage of Destination Malawi, I spoke with the General Manager of Sigelege Resorts, Farai Marara. Farai discusses the hospitality sector in Malawi and reveals the vision of the hotel group to further its footprint in Malawi. An achievement oriented and transformational leader. Seasoned hotelier with remarkable attention to detail and excellent customer engagement skills. Passionate about innovation, sustainability, coaching and mentoring teams to optimal performance levels. With over 15 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry. Farai Marara has successfully overseen the operations of both city hotels and resorts in Zimbabwe, Botswana and Malawi, consistently achieving remarkable growth, profitability, and guest satisfaction ratings.  

Today's episode was recorded at this year's Malawi International Tourism Expo in Lilongwe. VoyagesAfriq's content editor Samuel Obeng Appah sat down with Noma Moyo, a Sales executive at Pay Changu, a Malawian FinTech startup. She says the Company's objective is to help fix the payment challenges in Malawi of which the tourism sector is heavily affected. She believes their payment gateway will enhance the services offered by the destination.

My conversation today is an exclusive chat with the CEO of Africa's Eden Tourism Association, Jillian Blackbeard. She tells me the main objective of Africa's Eden is to drive travel and tourism that positively contribute to society and the local/regional economy. Africa's Eden is a private sector-driven organisation representing Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, undertaking an ambitious destination marketing strategy and campaign at all levels of the tourism supply chain.   Jillian's passion lies in African tourism and Conservation, she has been leading the industry for over 10 years specifically in marketing, first for a Southern African hotel and resort chain, followed by 5 years as director for marketing and product development at Botswana Tourism Organisation, followed by Director for Africa for The World Travel and Tourism Association. She is now the CEO of Africa's Eden Tourism Association, the first purely private sector driven organisation representing Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, undertaking an ambitious destination marketing strategy and campaign at all levels of the tourism supply chain. Jillian's passions extend to conversation, managing the Tlhokomela Endangered Wildlife Trust for 5 years and continues to support projects that link tourism with conservation. Over the past years, she has spoken at international conferences and events on the importance of intra-African travel and opportunities and challenges for the sector across the African continent.

In today's episode, the Acting CEO of Botswana Tourism Organization Keitumetse Setlang at the recent WTM Africa show in Cape Town revealed the ambitious Strategy for Diversification and Growth for the Southern African Nation. She also gave an update on the country's MICE Strategy which she describes as cardinal to their tourism drive  

Today's conversation is an exclusive chat with the newly appointed Executive Director of Zambia Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Studies (ZITHS)Mrs. Anne Kaoma-Sibanda. On the sidelines of the just-ended 2nd Travel, Hospitality, and Tourism Education Summit held in Lusaka, Anne tells me ZITHS is committed to using initiatives such as the summit to help address the gaps in the human resource base of the tourism sector. Anne outlines her vision for the country's leading hospitality institution and how partnerships will help ZITHS  adapt to the fast-changing needs of the sector.  Mrs. Anne Kaoma-Sibanda brings a wealth of experience in the field of tourism and hospitality. Her background in human capital development coupled with a strong leadership acumen, aligns perfectly with the current strategic vision of reclaiming ZITHS' rightful position as an educator of choice in the region and beyond. Mrs. Anne Kaoma-Sibanda holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business and Psychology and a Master of Business Administration. As Executive Director, Mrs. Kaoma-Sibanda plays a pivotal role in steering ZITHS toward new heights of hospitality education in Zambia through strategic vision coupled with the commitment to fostering growth and educational innovation to contribute significantly to the success of the institute and the hospitality industry at large.  

In today's episode, the founder of Essence of Africa Amanda Margison unpacks the reasons behind the launch of the continent's latest travel show. Taking place from 2-4 October 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, The Essence of Africa show a collaborative work between Onshow Solutions and ATTA is a private sector-led initiative focused on expanding the potential of tourism across Africa by bringing together the right global buyers and committed local sellers.  

The recently held 2024 ITB Berlin saw Africa turn up in style showcasing a diverse and wide range of offerings for the continent's key source market at the marquee travel show. On today's podcast recorded on the final day of the show, I spoke to the Director General of Destination Marketing at Tourism Seychelles Bernadette Willemin on her impressions of the show. Sales & Marketing Manager of Malawi's Blue Zebra Lodge, Jen Dunlop-Jones expressed excitement following an overwhelming show of interest in their products and La Reunion's Jerome Manicom who was happy to use ITB to announce his maiden B2B event. Natalia Rosa, a Project Lead at SADC Tourism Business Council Tourism Alliance concludes this conversation by sharing insights into the alliance's significant strides and ambitious initiatives.    

Today's episode recorded on the margins of ITB Berlin 2024 unpacks Safari 2 GO, a revolutionary approach to planning a trip to Namibia. The platform, part of the Gondwana Group is a comprehensive online travel gateway. The Group CEO of Gondwana Gys Joubert says their newest product was inspired by the demand from smaller players and stand-alone adventurers to discover the land of the Brave.  

Ahead of this year's Kriol International Jazz Festival to be held in Praia, Cabo Verde from 4-6 April, I had an exclusive chat with the lead organizer of the event Djo da Silva. He tells me this year's event will celebrate the fusion of kriol culture and music in style with musicians and groups from all parts of the world.  

My conversation today is with the General Manager of Air Botswana, Lulu Rasebotsa. She is optimistic the financial assistance given them by the  Government of Botswana coupled with their plans to relaunch new routes with a new fleet will make the airline competitive and boost the country's tourism drive.  

In today's episode, the Acting CEO of Namibia Tourism Board Bonnie Mbidzo on the sidelines of last week's ITB Berlin tells me, the travel trade has expressed their excitement about Namibia's diversified tourism products. He opens up on his short to medium-term plans and finally looks forward to welcoming delegates for the AviaDev to the land of the brave. 

Today's conversation explores the enormous opportunities the Central Eastern European outbound market offers to African destinations. Managing Director of Travel Advance, Paddington Tucker currently at Onshow's CEE roadshow in Budapest takes a deep dive into this growing market. Paddington Tucker is the owner and founder of the Travel Advance Group, a destination marketing agency with reach across Central Eastern Europe and staff based in Poland, Czechia, Hungary and Romania. Since 2014 Travel Advance has consulted to numerous tourism boards looking to understand this dynamic region and grow tourism arrivals. Paddington started his career promoting African safari products across the world and since 2010 partnered with Onshow Solutions on the Africa Showcase project in German-speaking markets and CEE.     

My Guest today is Safiyaa Akoojee, Founder and CEO of Fortunatus Advisory. Safiyya is a Dubai based South African Attorney & advisory professional, with more than thirteen years of law practice experience. In this conversation, she highlights the critical role of attorneys in the business of tourism and the right framework to attract the right investments to destinations. Safiyya will be speaking at the upcoming Tourism Investments Forum Africa scheduled for 10-12 April in Cape Town, South Africa. Safiyya is a dynamic, performance-driven professional who has held leadership posts in multiple businesses and provides global expertise with legal insights to advise businesses and executives alike. Safiyya has an acute business acumen and foresight allowing her to advise her clients on the intricacies of cross border transactions and offshore establishment. Having gained a significant amount of experience representing various businesses & industry sectors. Fortunatus Advisory has mandates representing clients in multiple diverse sectors of the economy including oil, gas & energy; travel, tourism & hospitality; food manufacturing; real estate & construction sectors. Representing high net worth clients through Africa & the Middle East, securing foreign direct investment, and advising on offshore strategy providing a complete suite of services, Safiyya is an astute legal & private advisor. Safiyya previously had success in completing foreign direct investment transactions, and practicing in commercial and corporate law matters, both litigious and non-litigious. Having successfully advised and represented international trade, company formation specialty, and offshore company strategy. Safiyya worked as Director of Thomson Wilks Inc. in association with DWF for thirteen years as the sole international attorney, focused on Middle East strategy & legal consulting. She speaks regularly at conferences on international investments and the international legal environment & regulations supporting business opportunities, whilst overcoming cross-border and governmental challenges, in an ever-increasing multicultural society. She has also served as President of the South African Business Council, Dubai U.A.E, and represented South Africa in procuring foreign direct investment. Safiyya holds multiple degrees in Bachelor of Arts (Law, International Relations, English), the University of Witwatersrand; Bachelor of Laws (LLB), University of South Africa; Post Graduate Certificate, Commercial & Corporate Law, University of London (awarded merit*); Post Graduate Diploma, Banking & Finance Law, University of London (awarded merit*); Masters of Law (LLM), Banking, Finance & Corporate Law, University of London

Ahead of the 2nd edition of the Tourism Investments Forum Africa (TIFA) to be held during World Travel Market Africa in Cape Town, South Africa from 10-12 April 2024, we caught up with the CEO of Millvest Investments, organisers of the event Miller Matola. He says this year's edition will be riding on the successes that inaugural event chalked and the tourism industry is buoyed by the fact that the event is taking place at an important market place.