by DION HENRICK in Cape Town
Western Cape Bureau
CAPE TOWN, (CAJ News) – THIS year’s Hotel Development Pipeline Report reveals record activity in Africa.
According to the definitive study of international hospitality development projects in Africa, there are 577 hotels and resorts, with 104 444 rooms, in the development pipeline, up by 13,3 percent by 2024, way ahead of the single digit pipeline growth reported globally by the leading international chains.
The report, compiled by Lagos-based W Hospitality Group, with data from 50 international and regional hotel chains, shows that development activity has been growing impressively in North Africa, which saw a 23 percent year-on-year increase, compared to a 6 percent increase in sub-Saharan Africa.
Over the past five years, the hotel development pipeline has grown at an annualised rate of 4 percent in sub-Saharan Africa, 12 percent in North Africa and 7 percent overall.
Egypt continues to lead the way in terms of development, with 143 hotels and 33 926 rooms in the pipeline. This is almost four times the number of rooms in second-placed Morocco, which has 8 579 rooms in 58 hotels.
They are followed by Nigeria, Ethiopia, Cape Verde, Kenya, Tunisia, South Africa, Tanzania and Ghana, in that order, ranked by number of rooms.
“Despite the various trials that the continent faces, the fact that hotel chains signed 125 new deals last year, with 21 000 rooms, is evidence that opportunities for further development abound,” commented Trevor Ward, Managing Director of W Hospitality Group.
A prominent company in Tanzania’s travel industry meanwhile has announced the expansion of services for travelers seeking authentic experiences across the country.
With expert-guided Tanzania safaris, Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions and Zanzibar tours, Easy Travel and Tour pledges to provide customized travel solutions for individuals, families and groups.
“Our goal is to create memorable journeys that connect travelers to the real Tanzania,” said a spokesperson for Easy Travel and Tour.
“Whether it’s witnessing the Great Migration on safari, reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro, or relaxing on Zanzibar’s beaches, we ensure every trip is carefully planned with safety, comfort and authenticity in mind.”
Popular sites served by the company include Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak and Zanzibar beaches.
– CAJ News