The
Akwaaba African Travel Market
, a premier travel, tourism, and hospitality event, is set to return to Lagos, Nigeria from September 22-24, 2024. This year marks a significant milestone for Akwaaba – its 20th anniversary. Over the past two decades, this event has established itself as a vital platform for connecting key players in Africa’s tourism industry, fostering collaborations, and showcasing the continent’s immense potential to a global audience.This year’s Akwaaba promises a grand celebration of African culture, innovation, and industry excellence. The event will unite over 20 countries, bringing together businesses, investors, government decision-makers, and industry buyers to explore the latest industry insights and unparalleled business opportunities.
One of the most exciting aspects of the 2024 Akwaaba African Travel Market is the addition of new global participants. For the first time, Movenpick Hotel & Residence Nairobi from Kenya, Memorial Healthcare Group from Turkey, and Costa Cruises from Italy will be joining the event. This diverse participation not only broadens Akwaaba’s global reach but also highlights the growing interest of international companies in Africa’s thriving tourism market.
The inclusion of Memorial Healthcare Group is particularly significant, showcasing the burgeoning synergy between healthcare and tourism. This demonstrates the increasing focus on expanding medical tourism opportunities across Africa, highlighting the role of healthcare services in shaping the future of tourism in the region.
Akwaaba’s 20th anniversary coincides with a period of remarkable growth for African tourism. In 2023, Africa emerged as the fastest-growing region in global tourism, with international tourist arrivals reaching 96% of 2019 levels – the highest percentage worldwide.
Akwaaba has played a crucial role in driving this growth, forging connections among stakeholders from across the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors. The event has consistently attracted representatives from over 20 nations, including 12 foreign airlines and some of the most prominent African hotel chains, solidifying its position as a key player in promoting African tourism on a global stage.
Akwaaba’s impact extends beyond its annual event. Over the years, it has spearheaded various successful initiatives, including the Africa Travel 100 Awards, Medical Tourism editions, Africa Youth in Tourism Conference, and the Africa Travel 100 Awards for women, youth under 40, tour operators, and destination weddings. These efforts have garnered wide recognition, earning Akwaaba an award of excellence in tourism from both the Nigerian government and the UNWTO during the 2022 Global Tourism Summit.
As Akwaaba African Travel Market celebrates 20 years of success, it stands as a testament to the resilience, innovation, and lasting impact of the African travel industry. This milestone signifies a bright future for Akwaaba, solidifying its position as a catalyst for fostering positive change, driving collaborations, and showcasing the diverse beauty of Africa to the world.
A Glimpse into Lagos, Nigeria
Lagos, the host city for Akwaaba, is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis offering a wealth of attractions and experiences for visitors. Here’s a brief overview of some of the highlights:
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Top Tourist Spots:
The National Museum, Lekki Conservation Centre, and the Lagos Lagoon are must-visit destinations that showcase Lagos’ rich history, natural beauty, and coastal charm.*
Upcoming Events:
Lagos is set to host a series of vibrant events in 2024, including the Lagos Freedom Fest, the Lagos Fringe Festival, and the Beauty West Africa. These events provide an opportunity to experience the city’s dynamic arts, culture, and entertainment scene.*
Dining Options:
Numerous restaurants in Lagos offer diverse culinary experiences, catering to every taste. There are also numerous hotels near the Eko Hotels Convention Centre, providing comfortable accommodations for Akwaaba attendees.*
