With the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF) just around the corner, the announcement that Namibia’s President, His Excellency Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, will be headlining the event has created significant buzz. Set to take place from June 25 to June 27, 2024, at the Mövenpick Hotel in Windhoek, Namibia, this forum is anticipated to be a pivotal event for the African hospitality industry.
AHIF is renowned as the premier gathering for hospitality investors, business leaders, government officials, bankers, and expert advisors across the African continent. This year’s forum promises to bring together delegates from over 50 countries for three days of high-level networking, business meetings, and discussions on the latest industry trends and developments.
Key Topics at AHIF 2024
Innovations and Investments
The agenda for AHIF 2024 is packed with critical topics, ranging from the active development of financial institutions to the impact of artificial intelligence on the hospitality sector. Attendees will delve into discussions about aviation connectivity, conservation efforts, demographic trends, and the empowerment of women in the industry.
Government Initiatives
A significant focus will be on government initiatives to support hospitality, with Namibia’s proactive stance being a highlight. President Dr. Nangolo Mbumba’s involvement underscores Namibia’s commitment to advancing its tourism and hospitality sectors, signaling a welcoming environment for international investment.
Sustainability and New Ventures
Sustainability continues to be a central theme, reflecting the global shift towards eco-friendly practices in hospitality. Discussions will also cover new ventures and optimal capital structures, ensuring that participants are well-informed about innovative financial strategies and opportunities.
Prominent Speakers
The forum will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including Namibia’s Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Hon. Pohamba Penomwenyo Shifeta. Other notable speakers include:
- Artur Gerber, Managing Director, TUI Blue
- Olivier Granet, Managing Partner & CEO, Kasada Capital Management
- Fahad Kazim, CEO, Millennium Hotels & Resorts & Lakhraim Group
- Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, Middle East, Africa & Southwest Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts
- Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer, ME & Africa, Accor
These leaders, among others, possess the expertise and influence to drive transformative projects, create substantial employment opportunities, and boost international tourism, which is a critical revenue source for many African countries.
Namibia’s Strategic Initiatives
Namibia’s Investment Opportunities
Nangula Uaandja, Chairperson and CEO of the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), emphasized the country’s strategic initiatives aimed at boosting tourism. The International Tourism Revival Initiative focuses on creating new tourism routes and expanding product offerings. The establishment of the Namibia Convention Bureau aims to position Namibia as a premier Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) destination.
Enhancing Investment Attractiveness
These initiatives are designed to open unique investment opportunities, enhancing Namibia’s attractiveness as a destination for investors. Uaandja highlighted the readiness of the NIPDB team to assist investors, ensuring a seamless entry and a smooth experience in Namibia.
Founder’s Insight
Matthew Weihs, the founder of AHIF, expressed optimism about Namibia’s commitment to its tourism and hospitality sectors. He noted that the presence of President Dr. Nangolo Mbumba at the forum signifies Namibia’s dedication to fostering a thriving visitor economy and its openness to international hospitality investments.
Event Details and Additional Speakers
AHIF 2024 will be held at the Mövenpick Hotel, Windhoek, Namibia, from June 25 to June 27, 2024. Other prominent speakers include:
- Michael Aldridge, Founder & CEO, KOFISI
- JS Anand, Founder & CEO, Leva Hotels
- Ewan Cameron, Director, Africa, Westmont Hospitality
- Rahul Chaudhary, Managing Director, CG Corp Global & CG Hospitality Holdings
- Karim Cheltout, Regional Vice President, Lodging Development Africa & All-Inclusive EMEA, Marriott
- David Damiba, Managing Partner & Co-Chief Executive Officer, Kasada Capital Management
- Mark Dunford, Chief Executive Officer, Knight Frank
- Erwan Garnier, Senior Director Development, Radisson Hotel Group
- Naiara López Giner, Associate Manager – Tourism Advisory Lead, Hospitality & Tourism, Colliers
- Wayne Godwin, Co-Chief Executive Officer, JLL Africa, Head, JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group, Africa
- Bani Haddad, Founder & Managing Director, Aleph Hospitality
- Lullu Krugel, Partner, Strategy and Chief Economist, PwC South Africa & PwC Africa ESG Platform Lead
- Markus Lehnert, SVP International Hotel Development, Marriott International
- Khalili Manji, Partner, CHIC
- Laurinda Marsh, KAM Global Projects – Africa, hansgrohe
- Haddis Tilahun, Founder & Chairman, United Africa Group
- Wytze van den Berg, Vice President International Operations EMEA/ Vice President EMEA WorldHotels, BWH Hotels
- David Levy, VP of Regional Development (Middle East & Africa), Club Med
- Jameel Verjee, Founder & CEO, CityBlue Hotels (a member of The Diar Group)
- Trevor Ward, Managing Director, W Hospitality Group
