- Offers new format for more networking, hands-on workshops, interactive insights, country showcases
Business a.m.
South Africa city, Cape Town, will play host for the first time to the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF), organisers of the forum, The Bench, said in a statement sent to Business a.m.
The 13th edition of the forum, regarded as Africa’s premier conference for tourism and hospitality investment, will take place from 17 to 19 June at The Westin Cape Town, with organisers promising the introduction of an innovative, dynamic format aimed at fostering new partnerships and facilitating deals within Africa’s rapidly expanding hospitality sector. Africa is regarded as one of the world’s fastest-growing hospitality markets.
The statement said Cape Town is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant visitor economy, and thus provides the perfect backdrop for AHIF’s annual gathering, adding that the South African hospitality industry is projected to grow from $1.36 billion in 2024 to $1.68 billion by 2029, driven by increasing traveller numbers and a resurgence post-COVID-19.
“We are excited to bring AHIF to Cape Town, a city that embodies the energy and potential of African hospitality. This year’s event will offer invaluable opportunities for delegates to connect with top decision-makers, explore new partnerships, and gain insights from industry leaders. AHIF is where the future of African hospitality is shaped. By offering delegates the chance to explore Cape Town, we are adding a unique layer of value to their participation. The connections made and the insights gained from these hands-on experiences will be invaluable as we work together to drive investment and development across Africa,” said Matthew Weihs, managing director of The Bench.
Providing details on the planned new format for the 13th edition, The Bench said it is focused on networking and tailored insights, and that it has been carefully designed to go beyond the conference rooms, with the introduction of country pavilions from across Africa to showcase the latest opportunities in the region to investors.
“The advantages of the new format include personalised itineraries, hands-on workshops, roundtables, enhanced networking, and insights on economic trends. Focused on C-level hospitality and tourism investment decision-makers, AHIF continues to be exclusively focused on those who are shaping the future of hospitality in Africa,” it further stated.
Speaking on the potential impact of AHIF, Daniel Silke, a political economist said: “The Africa Hospitality Investment Forum is taken seriously as an industry-leading event globally. It addresses one of the most intriguing and exciting markets, Africa, where growth rates remain high, and demographic shifts, urbanisation, and an increase in air connectivity are driving substantial interest from hotel groups. AHIF stands out not just for the expert speakers and deep insights, but also for fostering personal connections that are invaluable in this dynamic industry.”
With opportunities growing at an unprecedented rate, AHIF is more than a meeting; it’s a catalyst for action, insight, and strategic partnerships that are shaping the continent’s hospitality future, the statement noted.
