The 2023 Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) and Awards was held at the Grand Palm International Convention Centre in Gaborone, Botswana, from 04 to 06 October. In its 6th year, the event was hosted by the Government of Botswana through the Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) in collaboration with Africa Tourism Partners (ATP), the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
One of the reasons for ATLF’s success was its rich offering of side events, which included the inaugural AfCFTA Forum on Tourism, Creatives, and Cultural Industries, while the event was preceded by Intra-Africa Travel and Business to Business Exchange meetings, Women in Tourism, and Tourism Entrepreneurship Masterclasses that were delivered by UNISA and international MICE knowledge partners.
The event was officially opened by His Honour, the Vice President of the Republic of Botswana, Mr Slumber Tsogwane; UNWTO Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvili; the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Hon. Philda Nani Kereng; and H.E. Elias Mpedi Magosi, SADC Executive Secretary, while being attended by Pan-African and globally renowned travel and tourism industry thought-leaders, policymakers, investors, and key stakeholders.
Over 700 physical and 1 200 virtual delegates, collectively representing over 56 countries, attended the event over the four days, including 30 buyers and tourism associations from across the globe.
Over 700 physical and 1 200 virtual delegates, collectively representing 56 countries, attended the event over the four days, including 30 buyers and tourism associations from across the globe. In addition, over 78 renowned faculty members delivered transformational speeches, interactive panel discussions, and insightful presentations, while more than 20 international and continental media houses covered the event.
Shabnam Vadachia, manager: South Africa at South African Airways, said, “The event was of an exceptionally high standard, akin to those I have attended on a global stage. My special commendation is to the young lady who managed the time and coordination of the program, she was in my books, your unsung heroine as it’s never easy to time-keep a huge event and she did a stellar job”.
Zaim Muhammad, Travel & Tourism Consultant from Dubai echoed this positive sentiment, when he said, “ATLF gave me substantial experience. Since I am already promoting Africa as a Destination in the Middle East, my meetings with the African key players have enhanced my relationship and it will take us to the long-term collaboration. It has given more insights to highlight the diverse & unique tourism offerings in Africa with a focus on the cultural, historical, and natural attractions”.
Thanks are given to ALTF’s lead partners, namely: BDO, Millvest Advisory, Industry Development Corporation (IDC), Marriott International, Protea Hotel Gaborone Masa Square, ICCA, South African Airways, Air Link, Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino, Hilton Garden Inn Gaborone, Grandeur Rentals and Peaks of Africa.
For more information visit www.tourismleadershipforum.africa. To register and join the Africa Tourism Innovation Hub, visit atih.africa, or contact Rejoice on +27 (0)81 303 7030 or rejoice@africatourismpartners.com.
