STR’s Director Thomas Emmanuel Unveils Africa Hospitality Trend in AHIF Podcast”
IN A CURRENT EPISODE OF THE AFRICA HOSPITALITY INVESTMENT FORUM (AHIF) PODCAST, THOMAS EMMANUEL, SENIOR DIRECTOR AT STR, OFFERS A DETAILED OVERVIEW OF THE LATEST HOSPITALITY TRENDS IN AFRICA.
In a recent AHIF podcast episode, Thomas Emmanuel, STR’s Senior Director, unpacked key insights from the latest report, “Bridging the Gap.” Partnered with AIFF, the report serves as a mid-interval update on Africa’s hospitality performance, paving the way for the upcoming AHIF conference in Windhoek.
Thomas Emmanuel Podcast Highlights
Emmanuel, in dialogue with Matt, provided a nuanced view of Africa’s diverse market performances. The “Bridging the Gap” report accentuates Africa’s rebound, with occupancy rates nearly reaching 2019 levels, setting a robust post-pandemic trajectory.
Positive Performance Patterns
Examining the report’s findings, Emmanuel noted positive year-on-year growth in occupancy and average rates across almost all African countries. Notably, Northern Africa approaches 96%, while Southern Africa surpasses 99%, indicating a resilient comeback.
City Highlights
Luxor, Sharm, Lagos, Addis, and Nairobi emerged as standout cities in the podcast, showcasing growth in domestic demand. Cape Town’s strong resurgence, fueled by leisure and corporate demand, spotlighted Southern Africa’s diverse recovery.
Focus on Windhoek and Namibia
With an optimistic outlook, Emmanuel also expressed confidence in Windhoek’s hospitality sector, citing strong corporate foundations and a burgeoning tourism base. The city is set to host AHIF in June, drawing attention with robust corporate demand and ambitious growth plans.
Global Perspective
Additionally, Thomas Emmanuel compared Africa’s recovery to global trends, highlighting alignment in rebound patterns. Despite slower airlift resumption, Africa’s swift recovery positions it positively on the global stage, signifying promising prospects for 2024 and beyond.
The podcast concluded on an upbeat note, foreseeing a positive trajectory for Africa’s hospitality industry. Despite acknowledged challenges, the emphasis on the continent’s resilience and growth potential resonated throughout.
