Africa Hospitality Investment Forum 2024 Set to Elevate Namibia’s Tourism Sector
Windhoek, Namibia From June 25 to 27, 2024, Namibia will host the prestigious Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF), marking a significant milestone for Southern Africa’s hospitality industry. The event, convened by the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), will gather influential investors, business leaders, government officials, and industry experts from 41 countries.
Months of meticulous planning have culminated in this landmark forum, showcasing Namibia’s emergence as a global player in hospitality and investment. Spearheaded by NIPDB, the bid to host AHIF 2024 underscores Namibia’s growing prominence on the international stage.
Catherine Shipushu, spokesperson for NIPDB, expressed enthusiasm, highlighting the forum as a pivotal opportunity for Namibia to spotlight its hospitality and investment potential globally.
Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah will inaugurate the forum, underscoring the government’s commitment to leveraging such events to drive tourism sector growth and development.
Distinguished speakers at AHIF 2024 include Namibia’s Minister of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta; Nigeria’s Minister of Tourism, Lola-Ade John; and Uganda’s Minister of Tourism and Antiques, Tom Butime. The forum will also feature senior executives from renowned global hospitality brands such as Club Med, Radisson Group, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Marriott International.
Key sessions will delve into current and emerging investment opportunities within Namibia’s tourism sector. Highlighting these sessions is “Powering Investments into Namibian Hospitality,” moderated by CBS News Travel Editor Peter Greenberg, aimed at fostering dialogue between public and private sector stakeholders.
A unique component of AHIF 2024 is its focus on empowering local businesses. Seven micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will showcase their arts and crafts, enhancing visibility and networking with global investors.
Moreover, the forum will feature a youth masterclass, “Hospitality Leaders Unplugged: Ask Us Anything,” providing over 140 students from Namibia’s leading educational institutions with a platform to engage directly with industry leaders.
Beyond its educational and networking dimensions, AHIF 2024 is expected to deliver substantial economic benefits to Namibia, boosting demand for accommodation, transportation, dining, and local products. The event aligns with Namibia’s strategic vision to position itself as a premier business tourism destination, supported by efforts from the Namibia Convention Bureau.
Acknowledging the crucial support of sponsors and partners such as O&L Leisure, FNB Namibia, RMB Namibia, De Beers Group, and Gondwana Collection Namibia, Shipushu emphasized their role in enhancing Namibia’s visibility and impact at AHIF 2024.
In conclusion, hosting AHIF 2024 represents a pivotal moment for Namibia, not only in attracting global investment but also in reinforcing its status as a leading destination for business tourism in Africa.
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