The second trip to Africa concluded the media networking event, bringing together major media experts and African travel experts.
The event was supported by headline partner Jules Verne (VJV) and leading sponsor Ethiopian Airlines.
Although it was not a specific agent event, Africa Travel Connect was joined by Trevor Carter and Maureen Simon from the online African network, Solomon Travel and Travel Gateway.
In addition to media networking events, Africa Travel Connect is focusing on several initiatives as part of its long-term growth strategy.
These include investment forums for Zimbabwe, roadshows in Manchester and Birmingham (BHX), an online inter-Africa discussion series, and webinars with international tour operators.
These initiatives aim to promote collaboration, investment and sustainable growth in the tourism sector in Africa.
Africa Travel Connect also successfully formed a new subsidiary, the Africa Travel Show, to promote its mission to promote tourism in Africa.
The subsidiary will focus on organizing and managing travel shows.
News updates from our partners were shared at the event.
Tour operator Jules Verne has launched his first dedicated long distance pamphlet for the 2025-26 season.
This illustrates the strategic expansion to global destinations beyond Europe, in addition to long-distance pamphlets. Jules Verne has introduced a new solo collection from 2025-26, featuring tours in Africa and the Middle East.
Ethiopia has made great strides in strengthening its tourism sector and aims to establish itself as Africa's premier destination. The Ministry of Tourism will update its 13-year-old framework to incorporate digital innovation and sustainable practices. Ethiopia has seen an increase in international arrivals by 40% over the past five years, making it Africa's fastest growing destination.
Ethiopian Airlines highlighted its domestic $7.8 billion mega airport project. The expansion will increase capacity to 17-60 million passengers per year by 2040, reinforcing the lead role in African aviation. Additionally, Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airlines have announced a joint venture to increase connectivity between Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
Zambia will be holding the Zambia Travel Expo (ZATEX) in Lusaka from June 3rd to 5th, 2025. Expo will showcase full B2B participation opportunities and will also be confirmed in August/September 2025. Visa-free entry in Zambia is available in 167 countries.
Zimbabwe's finest tourist exhibition, Sanganai/Franganani Expo, will be held in Mutare, Manicaland province from September 10-12, 2025. This is the first time an event has been held outside of Harare or Burawayo. The exposition aims to strengthen profiling and rebranding of all states for tourism, trade and investment promotion. Zimbabwe's Hills Luxury Golf Estate, scheduled to open in part in July 2026, will offer an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Peter Matkovic. The property also includes villas, apartments, country clubs, hotels, tennis, swimming facilities and shopping centres.
The Gambia is just making a strategic shift from beach vacations to focus on wildlife tourism. With over 550 bird species, it is becoming a niche wildlife destination for ecotourists and ornithologists. The $5 million grant program offers tourism-related businesses up to $50,000-$200 and supports micro and small and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) in the sector.
Burkina Faso is known for its powerful artisan traditions, music festivals and spiritual heritage. The country focuses on being a regional leader in film and fashion, and has held Fespaco, Africa's biggest film festival, at Ougadugou for two years. Zind-Naaba Appart Hôtel is a new luxury hotel that opened in Ougadougou on April 30th, 2025. Additionally, the new international airport, Ougadougou-Donsin, is scheduled to open in 2025.
Namibia has introduced a new visa policy for British citizens. British citizens can now apply for visas in advance or online. This fast and convenient process is intended to enhance tourism and promote easy access for travelers. Namibia recently opened the country's first Hilton Garden Inn in Windhook, expanding regional ties through FlyNamibia's new routes to Victoria Falls, Maun and Luanda, and strengthening the attraction of tourism with the launch of the Namibian Maritime Museum in Luderitz.
Africa Travel Connect's next media networking event is scheduled for Friday, September 12th, 2025 at 245 Hammersmith and includes a top-speed, rooftop dating style event.
This time, the format promotes a direct and open dialogue between journalists and tourism leaders.
“We are pleased to announce that we are a great place to go,” said Yared Bizuneh, Director of Africa Travel Connect. “The success of each Africa Travel Connect event offers invaluable insights that drive continuous improvement. These events are more than just network opportunities. They are catalysts for progress.”
