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New Dawn for Uganda’s Tourism as New Destination Brand is Launched

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New Dawn for Uganda’s Tourism as New Destination Brand is Launched - TRAVELINDEX

Kampala, Uganda, February 9, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / As the world starts to recover from the effects of the pandemic and opening up borders and skies to global tourism, Uganda, has refreshed its tourism destination brand promise, with the unveiling of a new brand identity that promises both domestic, regional and global tourists, an adventure of a lifetime.

The new brand Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa, draws upon Uganda’s global reputation as one of the most endowed destinations, famous for its thousands of plant and wildlife attractions, as well as vast and beautiful landscapes, temperate climate, warm people, and cultural diversity.

• For a relax stay in Kampala, within easy reach of the Central Business District, stay at Glenville Suites. Book direct at the best available…

The brand identity—Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa, was unveiled on Friday, 21st January 2022, by the country’s president, H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. The president was assisted by Col. Rtd Tom Butime, Hon Martin Bahinduka Mugarra and Ms. Doreen Katusiime, the Cabinet, State Minister and Permanent Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, respectively. The Brand was developed by Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda’s tourism marketing and regulatory agency.

The Uganda Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Lilly Ajarova and her Deputy, Mr. Bradford Ochieng; and the Board Chairman, Hon. Daudi Migereko together with board members, hosted the unveiling, held at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.

Explaining the new brand promise, Ajarova, said that the new brand promise seeks to re-emphasize Uganda’s rare and precious range of tourism attractions to the world, thereby earning destination Uganda competitive market share.

“Uganda is no doubt beautiful. Beautiful beyond measure. Yes, everyone knew that Uganda is and has always been the Pearl of Africa, – but there was a lack of clarity and consistency on, if Uganda is the Pearl of Africa- what pearls does it have to offer for each of the various travel segments and preferences,” she said, adding: “To win the marketplace; to achieve our Number One objective of “Sustainably Promoting Uganda as a Competitive Tourism Destination for Inclusive Development” it was therefore important that all stakeholders are aligned on what makes us the Pearl of Africa and how do we unpack that to the various travel markets/segments around the world.”

“Explore, Uganda the Pearl of Africa is an invitation to our tourists- both domestic, regional and international to rediscover the magnificence of the Pearl. We are promising and inviting them to Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa, for ADVENTURE OF THEIR LIFETIME,” she said.

Before the new brand, there were a number of campaigns by various stakeholders, most of which were built around “Visit Uganda” as a call to action, something that Ajarova says did not appropriately capture the uniqueness of Uganda’s attractions.

“If you think about it, when you invite someone to visit you, you are simply asking them to check on you, maybe for a few days. But an invitation to EXPLORE is really about inviting someone to indulge themselves. To spoil themselves; to delve into; to deep-dive; to discover and rediscover- the depth, range and variety of attractions in the pearl,” Ms Ajarova further explained.

Speaking at the launch, President Museveni urged beckoned the world to Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa saying that, the uniqueness of her attractions guaranteed a better experience and higher return on investment. He particularly extolled Uganda’s unique terrain, that made the country a “roof of Africa” where Lake Victoria sits, giving birth to the Mighty River Nile that flows through various Ugandan lakes on its way to Alexandria in Egypt.

He also highlighted Uganda’s abundant vegetation, temperate climate, variety of wildlife, strategic location on the Equator, cultural diversity, community tourism, peace and security, among others.

He also said, Uganda’s unique place in anthropogeny as the birthplace of humankind should be studied, documented and sold as a tourist attraction. Mr. Museveni welcomed the new brand promise and recognized Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) for the imaginative repackaging of Uganda’s tourism value proposition.

“Uganda is a very nice place, but it needed a group to talk about it; to inform the world,” he said adding: “I am very happy with the new group headed by our daughter Ajarova…. I salute that group. You can see they are putting a lot of imagination into what they are doing.”

“I congratulate the board by led by Hon. Daudi Migereko (Chairman) and others. I also congratulate the Ministry, under Col. Rtd. Tom Butime,” he said.

Rebuilding, Restarting Tourism And Positioning Uganda As The Most Competitive Destination In Africa

The rebranding is an essential component of UTB’s Strategic Plan (FY 2020/21 – 2024/25) that seeks to “Sustainably Promote Uganda as a Competitive Tourism Destination for Inclusive Development” with a strategic goal to “sustainably increase the volume and value of tourism in Uganda.”

Under this plan, UTB is pursuing 5 major objectives, namely:

i) To Increase Tourist Arrivals
ii) To Increase Investment and Job Creation in The Tourism Sector

iii) Increase The Competitiveness of the Tourism Destination
iv) To Improve Collection and Access to Tourism Information
v) To Improve Internal Efficiency and Effectiveness

From the above objectives, UTB, expects, by 2024/25 to work with all stakeholders to restart, rebuild and deliver to market tourism experiences that will help Uganda to:

vi) Recover from the impact of the pandemic that saw us lose up to USD1 billion in revenue in 2020, reach the pre-pandemic levels of USD 1.45 billion and grow that further to USD 1.862 billion
vii) Recover the contribution of tourism to total employment at 667,600 people (6.3% of total employment)
viii) Increase inbound tourism revenues per visitor from USD1,036 to USD1,500
ix) Recover the average number of International Tourist arrivals from the U.S, Europe, Middle East, China and Japan at 225,300 tourists
x) Increase the proportion of leisure to total tourists from 20.1% to 30%
xi) Increase the number of direct flight routes to Europe and Asia from 6 to 30

Col Rtd. Tom Butime said that before the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism in Uganda was on a strong and positive trajectory, reading in Foreign Exchange earnings and accounting for 7.7% of GDP and about 6.3% of all formal employment in the country.
“The launch of the Brand is part of a response to the recovery after this dreadful pandemic. We are getting back into the market with a unified message and a clear promise and call to action. The launch of the Destination Brand is both vital to the restarting and rebuilding of the tourism sector as it provides a positive, recognizable and firm assurance of the beauty we radiate as a people and landscape of Uganda,” he said.

“The Destination Brand and the marketing activities that shall follow it are not in isolation. They complement other existing initiatives by the government to improve our product offering, improve the consumer experience and therefore widen opportunities for the private sector as well as quicken the pace of recovery. These measures, most of which are part of the Tourism Development Programme of the National Development Programme (NDP) III, include increased marketing efforts, the development of tourism infrastructure, addressing human-wildlife conflict and diversifying our product offer. There are also several initiatives being undertaken at the regional integration level, aimed at enhancing our competitiveness as a Destination,” added Butime.

He also underscored the need to help the Private Sector manage the financial burden through affordable financing options, expanding the marketing support campaign and developing competitive products on the world market.

Concerted stakeholder engagement

Hon. Migereko, the board chairman, thanked the national steering committee that was central to the development of the brand, led by Dr. Patrick Bitature, and reaffirmed UTB’s commitment to work with all stakeholders, to realise the full benefits of the renewed brand and the associated tourism marketing efforts.
“The launch of this destination brand is bound to benefit the entire country, provided after this launch all key stakeholders can consistently work hard to render our tourism products competitive and attractive; to enhance the image of destination Uganda; to scale up the quality of services and positive messages to give the brand its worth as well as improve the ease of doing business,” he said.

“It is going to be our duty at Uganda Tourism Board to ensure that we come up with requisite strategies and to reach out to all stakeholders both in and out of the Tourism value chain so that they can fully participate in this business but are also supported to register reasonable returns on whatever they invest,” he added.

• For a relax stay in Kampala, within easy reach of the Central Business District, stay at Glenville Suites. Book direct at the best available…

About Uganda Tourism Board
Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) is a statutory organisation established in 1994 mandated to promote and market Uganda domestically, across the region and internationally, promote quality assurance in tourist facilities through training, grading and classification, promote tourism investment, support and act as liaison for the private sector in tourism development. The broader goals of the Board are to increase the contribution of tourism earnings and GDP; improve Uganda’s competitiveness as an international tourism destination; and increase Uganda’s share of Africa’s and World tourism market. UTB aims to create inclusive opportunities for the tourism sector through market transformation.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

First Tanzanian Balloon Flight over Mount Kilimanjaro

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First Tanzanian Balloon Flight over Mount Kilimanjaro - VISITTANZANIA.org - TRAVELINDEXKilimanjaro, Tanzania, January 28, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Captain Abeid Soka of Serengeti Balloon Safaris flies a balloon over Mount Kilimanjaro. “Ooh it was cold up there!” exclaimed Captain Abeid Soka, Chief Pilot and Director of Flight Operations of Serengeti Balloon Safaris. He had just been part of an exclusive group of the world’s top balloon pilots, who flew their balloons over the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in December 2021. This incredible adventure was arranged by Josep Maria Llado, the founder of Ultramagic Balloons, a true adventurer at heart who has once before arranged a flight over Africa’s highest mountain.

“We took off from Usseri, very near the Kenya border on the eastern side of the mountain and ascended steeply through the clouds, within 55 minutes we were above the height of Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second highest peak, before descending over the saddle and climbing again.

“By this point were breathing oxygen though nasal tubes, which we had been doing from 10,000ft, this is an important safety measure, particularly with a fast climb. Even the burners needed oxygen, injected through specifically designed ports.

“After a few more minutes, we were flying over the summit and the crater of Kibo, the highest point on the African continent. Carrying my Tanzanian flag as I looked down deep into the crater was an incredibly proud moment,” says Captain Soka. “It was amazingly clear up there, that image will never leave me.”

After flying over the summit, they had to climb again; downwind of a mountain peak, there can be sharp downdrafts, so they had to be prepared by climbing further.

There were eleven balloons in total, each with 2 pilots, who were selected from some of the very best balloon pilots from across the globe, chosen for their experience in mountain flying, which is unique for its weather and terrain conditions as well as challenging temperatures. Planning was meticulous and they waited 4 days for the perfect weather to make this achievement successful and safe. Each balloon carried 300kg of fuel and many landed with only half of that used.

“Knowing that I was the first and only pilot from Tanzania to be part of this incredible achievement, it was humbling,” exclaimed the beaming Abeid. “After clearing the summit and stabilizing the flight in the downward moving air currents, we flew low over Shira plateau, across the Londorrosi forest and out over the farmlands of West Kilimanjaro before selecting a clear space for a gentle landing.”

Captain Abeid is from the Chagga tribe that call Kilimanjaro home and the mountain of God, he grew up on the southern slopes of the mountain, so it was a particularly special occasion for him to be able to take part in this feat. He’s been flying balloons since 2010, when he went to Europe and America, sponsored by Serengeti Balloon Safaris, to attain his private and then commercial balloon pilot licences. He’s been Chief Pilot since 2015 and was made Tanzania’s first ballooning examiner by the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority in 2021.

Other pilots included Josep Maria Llado and two of his daughters, the world no 1 pilot, from Germany, also Swiss, Belgian, American pilots and Ramses Vanneste and his father, Ramses has been a pilot for Serengeti Balloon Safaris, off and on for 10 years.

Abeid is now back in Serengeti, flying over the much smaller hills that we encounter there but he will never forget this extraordinary experience.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Nigeria Vice-President Osinbajo Demands Right for Africa to Manufacture its Own Vaccines

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Nigeria Vice-President Osinbajo Demands Right for Africa to Manufacture its Own Vaccines - TRAVELINDEXAbuja, Nigeria, January 24, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Access to COVID-19 vaccines continues to pose a serious problem for Africa, with fewer than 10% of populations fully vaccinated in most countries, said Yemi Osinbajo, Vice-President of Nigeria, in his address to the Davos Agenda 2022. He called for patent waivers to permit African countries to manufacture vaccines locally.

Osinbajo complimented COVAX and other global vaccine alliances for their contribution but noted that the price tag for vaccinating the entire world is just $50 billion, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. “This is affordable, he said, but we should not allow this opportunity “to slip through the cracks”.

“Now is a good time to test global will,” he said, in building international cooperation to prepare for new, possibly worse pandemics to come.

He called for natural gas – which Africa has in abundance – to be accepted as a transitional fuel. Africa is the continent that contributes least to climate change yet has been most negatively affected by it, he said. This situation cannot be compounded by rules that hamper Africa from adapting.

“For many gas-rich African countries, one of the biggest shocks is the notion that fossil fuels including gas should be defunded, especially by international financial institutions.” He added: “We think that gas as a transition fuel is absolutely crucial, not just for an effective transition but also for our economies.” He made it clear that gas is “without doubt the only pathway” for Africa to transition out of more hazardous fuels such as coal and heavy oil.

Osinbajo claimed that Nigeria is “probably the first country in Africa to develop an energy transition plan and to cost it out”. The plan, which he said will be launched in the next couple of weeks, includes connecting 5 million homes to solar power, requiring more foreign investment in manufacturing panels and components.

He said there is a “unique opportunity” for companies to invest in Nigerian renewable energy and that the government is providing debt for those who wish to do business in the sector. He also called on developed economies to honour their long-standing pledge to provide $100 billion annually in climate finance to developing countries.

Peace and security on the continent are seriously threatened by global terrorist franchises from the Sahel to the Horn to Southern Africa, Osinbajo said. As with coronavirus, “terrorism anywhere is a threat to peace everywhere” and he warned global partners not to sit by and allow Africa to be overrun by such extremists. “It is imperative for the international community to make more robust interventions to clear terrorists from Africa just as it did in the Middle East.”

Despite the enormous challenges of tackling COVID-19, climate change and terrorism, Osinbajo remained upbeat about economic prospects for Africa and Nigeria. The sub-Saharan economy grew by 3.7% in 2021 and is projected to continue this trajectory into 2022. Nigeria’s National Development Plan 2021-2025 envisages investments totalling $840 billion, of which 86% is expected to come from the private sector.

In the next three decades, the global population will swell by 2 billion people; 1 billion of those will come from Africa, which now has the world’s fastest growing working-age population. “Africa has the potential to become the factory of the world,” he said.

About the Davos Agenda 2022
For over 50 years, the World Economic Forum has been the international organization for public-private cooperation. The Davos Agenda 2022 is the focal point at the start of the year for leaders to share their outlook, insights and plans relating to the most urgent global issues. The meeting will provide a platform to accelerate the partnerships needed to tackle shared challenges and shape a more sustainable and inclusive future.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge to Reopen in June

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andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge to Reopen in June - TRAVELINDEXSerengeti National Park, Tanzania, January 20, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Originally built in the 1990s as a tented camp, andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti will reopen in June 2022 as a stunning luxury lodge. andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge is located in the remote western reaches of the Serengeti. Due to its far-flung location, there are very few lodges in this pristine section of the park, which means that guests can expect the ultimate in exclusivity.

• Discover the World’s Best Safari Lodges and Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Wildlife Awards at Top25Hotels.com

The lodge is perfectly situated on the banks of a tributary of the Grumeti River. Using the natural bow shape of the river, and paying homage to the circular forms of a traditional Masai manyatta, the lodge unfolds to reveal an understated sense of luxury.

Walking into the guest area upon arrival is a real wow moment. Spacious decks are perfect for enjoying sundowners overlooking the river and the camp’s rim-flow swimming pool provides a view of the seasonal hippo pools below. The proximity to water draws a profusion of wildlife throughout the day and night.

Each of its 10 suites feature deep-soaking tubs and outdoor decks with private plunge pools overlooking the Serengeti, though canvas, banana fiber and hardwood textures pay homage to their former tented incarnations. andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge boasts a state-of-the-art gym and an infinity pool overlooking a wildlife-filled watering hole. But don’t be fooled by its ultraluxurious facade: sustainability is central to this resort, which will run on 80% renewable energy.

Touching the earth lightly and seemingly floating across the landscape, 10 nostalgically elegant, and very spacious, guest suites offer natural light, an enormous bed, bath, an indoor shower (with a spectacular view), and sparkling private plunge pool. A new family suite has been incorporated featuring a small additional bedroom attached.

Adorned with Kitenge fabrics and accentuated with stone walls, the lodge also features the vibrant colours of the fishing communities surrounding Lake Victoria and the grey tones representative of hippo hide that have been beautifully woven into deeply comfortable furnishings and bespoke, hand-made fittings.

For a complete cuisine immersion, expect menus that are uncomplicated, easy to eat, fresh, healthy and wholesome. The traditional boma will still be the hero of night-time dining and artisanal pizzas as well as salt-crusted, whole baked fish, which pays homage to the region’s great lakes, will also be served in this unique space. Of course, the lodge’s well-known breakfast trays, with fresh juices and house baked bread are absolutely not to be missed. An interactive kitchen creates a space for guests to work alongside chefs and plan their menus for the day. Enjoy convivial afternoons and evenings around the central circular bar; a masterpiece of woven fabrics and dramatic glass ball light installations.

For those looking for an active workout, head to the gym. However, if you feel like a pamper session, surrender to an in-room massage.

• Discover the World’s Best Safari Lodges and Luxury Hotels with Prestigious Wildlife Awards at Top25Hotels.com

Twice-daily game drives from the lodge often encounter large lion prides and clans of hyena, big herds of resident plains game as well as the special black-and-white colobus monkeys, found nowhere else in the Serengeti. Rarely seeing other vehicles makes for an exceptional game viewing experience.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Women Are Making History at First All-female-run Safari Camp in Tanzania

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Women Are Making History at First All-female-run Safari Camp in Tanzania - TRAVELINDEXSerengeti, Tanzania, December 28, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Dunia Camp in the Serengeti, Tanzania, is an all-female-run safari camp run Tanzanian women. They have traded a traditional life, leaving their homes for months at a time to work in the dangerous bush, be independent, support their families, and provide an exceptional experience for guests.

Dunia, in Tanzania’s central Serengeti, is well placed for wildlife spotting. During the annual Great Migration, guests can watch giant herds of wildebeest moving through the area right from camp.

The safari comes right to Dunia, with the migrating wildebeest herds regularly passing the camp. Outside of the migration, there’s plenty more opportunity for wildlife spotting, too. During downtime, sink into a leather armchair with a cold drink in the open-sided dining tent and scan the sun-bleached plains for movement or get lost in a great book before retiring to your tent for an afternoon snooze.

Asilia was built by passionate people with deep roots in East Africa’s original family-run safari companies: Rekero Camp in 1986 and Oliver’s Camp in 1992. In 2004, they combined their experience, family spirit and commitment to East Africa and formed Asilia. Together, they sought to offer safari experiences paired with conservation efforts that bring meaningful change to the region. Today, we are a fast-growing, leading safari operator, employing nearly 1,000 people in 19 bespoke camps and lodges in Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

WTTC: African Tourism Sector to Recover by a Third

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WTTC: African Tourism Sector to Recover by a Third

Cape Town, South Africa, November 22, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / If measures are followed the sector could bring back 4.5 million jobs by 2022. Latest research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals the African Travel & Tourism sector is set to experience a year or year growth of just 27.7% this year, below the global average.

• For the African Tourism portal , Connecting Africa to the World, go to TourismAfrica.org

WTTC says travel restrictions imposed by key source markets such as the UK, which saw countries such as South Africa, Tunisia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Egypt and Kenya on its damaging ‘red list’ for travel, have prevented people from travelling, hindering the sector’s recovery across Africa.

Research by WTTC, which represents the global Travel & Tourism private sector, shows that in 2019, Africa’s Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP represented almost US$ 169 billion (6.9% of the total economy).

However, in 2020, when the pandemic brought international travel to an almost complete standstill, the contribution to the GDP fell to just US$ 86 billon (3.7% of the total economy), representing a fall of 49.2%, halving the contribution of the Travel & Tourism sector to the region’s economy.

According to the latest research, while the global economy is set to rise 30.7% year on year this year, the African region can expect a year on year growth of 27.7%, representing an increase of US$ 24 billion.

The data also reveals that, at the current recovery rate, the region could experience a further year on year growth of 21% in 2022, representing an increase of further US$ 23 billion to the economy.

The research goes on to show that domestic spending is set to rise by US$ 16 billion (39.5%) year on year in 2021, while international spending is also expected to increase by US$ 6 billion (26.1%) this year.

Next year, domestic spending is set to rise by US$ 13 billion (21.5%). However, international spending is expected to see a further increase of US$ 8 billion (33.8%)

In terms of employment, in 2019, the African Travel & Tourism sector supported almost 25 million jobs. After suffering a loss of more than seven million jobs last year due to severe international travel restrictions, employment is set to rise by a mere 1.1% this year.

However, WTTC’s research reveals a positive 18.1% rise in jobs in 2022, reaching almost 21 million jobs across the sector.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Our research shows that while the African Travel & Tourism sector is slowly beginning to recover, there is still a long way to go in terms of the sector’s contribution to the region’s economy and employment.

“Last year, the pandemic saw the tragic loss of more than seven million jobs from the Travel & Tourism sector. However, due to a predicted rise in both international and domestic spend this year and next, both jobs and GDP are on the rise, which is very encouraging.”

According to the research, the sector’s contribution to the region’s GDP and the rise in jobs could be more positive this year and next, if five vital measures are met by governments worldwide.

These measures include allowing fully vaccinated travellers to move freely, irrespective of their origin or eventual destination.

Secondly, the implementation of digital solutions which enable all travellers to easily prove their COVID status, in turn speeding up the process at borders around the world.

Thirdly, for safe international travel to fully restart, governments must recognise for all vaccines authorised by WHO.

Fourthly, continued support of the COVAX/UNICEF initiative to ensure equitable distribution of vaccines around the world.

Finally, the continued implementation of enhanced health and safety protocols, which will underpin customer confidence.

The future could be even brighter for Africa

If these five vital measures are followed before the end of this year, research shows the impact on the economy and jobs across Africa could be significant.

The sector’s contribution to GDP would benefit from these measures and could rise 30.7% (US$ 26 billion) by the end of 2021, followed by a year on year increase of a further 24.6% (US$ 28 billion) in 2022.

Domestic spending could increase by 41.3% this year, followed by a further 24.6% year on year growth in 2022, reaching pre-pandemic levels.

International spending would also benefit from government action, rising by US$ 7 billion (32.6%) this year, and outpacing domestic spend next year, with a year-on-year increase of US$ 10 billion (38.5%).

• For the African Tourism portal , Connecting Africa to the World, go to TourismAfrica.org

The sector’s growth could also have a positive impact on employment, with a 3.5% increase in jobs in 2021.

However, with the right measures to support Travel & Tourism, the number of those employed in the sector next year could see a year on year increase of 21.6%, reaching 22 million jobs, approaching pre-pandemic levels.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Alain St.Ange Presents the Guba Nana Yaa Asantewaa Entertainment Mogul Award

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Alain St.Ange Presents the Guba Nana Yaa Asantewaa Entertainment Mogul Award

Accra, Ghana, November 9, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / The GUBA Awards 2021 has just been held and it was pleasing to see Alain St.Ange in Ghana to present the The GUBA Nana Yaa Asantewaa Entertainment Mogul Award. Alain St.Ange who was the popular former Seychelles Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine and the well known and respected tourism personality who was one of the two African Candidates for the post of Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) in the 2017 elections . St.Ange was also one of the three candidates for the Seychelles Presidential elections of 2020.

Many who were at the grand evening celebrations of Tuesday night have expressed satisfaction to have seen Alain St.Ange fly to Ghana to be part of the African Awards event. Comments posted even had one from former Tourism Minister of Ghana, the Right Hon Catherine Abelema Afeku who said in a post on Social media “Yes Alain was splendid. It was great to see you Alain. You make us all proud in the Tourism Industry”. Tourism professionals from Ghana posted a series of photos of Alain St.Ange’s participation at the Ghana Awards even.

When he took to the stage in the massive entertainment venue of Ghana former Minister St.Ange said:- “The GUBA Nana Yaa Asantewaa Entertainment Mogul celebrates a courageous and resilient woman who has been a major player in the entertainment industry and has revolutionized the industry with ground-breaking concepts. The GUBA Nana Yaa Asantewaa Entertainment Mogul goes to none other than actress and brand ambassador Nana Ama McBrown” before inviting everyone to see a testimonial video on the awardee.

Nana Ama McBrown is a very popular Ghanaian show Bizz personality and loved as a Princess of the Country. She is a Ghanaian actress, TV presenter and a music writer. She rose to prominence for her role in television series Tentacles. Later, she found mainstream success following her role in the Twi-language movie “Asoreba”. She is currently the host of television cooking show McBrown Kitchen and entertainment talk show United Showbiz on UTV.

Aba Blankson of the USA was on stage with St.Ange to do the honours for this award ceremony and was the one who invited Nana Ama McBrown to the stage to receive her award.

The GUBA Awards has been recognising and moving Africans to the limelight for well over a decade. It is Lady Dentaa Amoateng MBE who is the founder of the GUBA Awards and she was on hand in Ghana with the Who’s Who of Ghana who had assembled in great numbers to see the ceremony take place for the first time in Ghana and brought to the country a long list of influential personalities who are all part of the diaspora. The first such award ceremony was held in 2019 in the USA and was attended by H.E. Nana Afuko-Addo, the President of Ghana, H. E. Jean-Claude Kassi Brou, the President of ECOWAS Commission among many other dignitaries.

“Today Marks 100 years of your legacy. Keep resting in Perfect Peace Nana Yaa Asantewaa. Thank you for your bravery, resilience and courage!!! Ghanaians will ever be grateful to Nana Yaa Asantewaa, the Asante Warrior Queen Mother, whose activism and military tactics contributed to the liberation of her people and country. Her roles in Ghana spurred nationalist ideals in other parts of the West African sub-region, which resulted in many of the countries gaining independence” said Lady Dentaa Amoateng MBE when she addressed the gathering after the Republic’s First Lady had herself gone on stage to also present an award.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Kenya Airways Signs Strategic Alliance with South African Airways

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Kenya Airways Signs Strategic Alliance with South African AirwaysNairobi, Kenya, September 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Kenya’s national carrier Kenya Airways (KQ) and South Africa Airways (SAA) have entered a memorandum of cooperation with a longer-term view to co-starting a Pan-African Airline Group that in time will enhance mutual growth potential between the two carriers.

• For a complete travel guide on Magical Kenya, Where Safari was Born, go to VisitKenya.com

– Kenya Airways (KQ) and South Africa Airways (SAA) have signed a memorandum of cooperation whose long-term objective is to form a Pan African airline.

– At this initial stage, it is not a merger but a partnership that seeks to re-organise KQ and SAA assets into an ecosystem that will make the South African and Kenyan aviation sector more competitive.

This cooperation aligns with KQ’s core purpose, Contributing to the sustainable development of Africa. will be based on mutual benefits. These include strategic positioning in global aviation, diversifying earning streams, and reinforcing regional partnership in Africa through diplomatic and commercial relations. This will see an increase in passenger traffic, cargo opportunities, and general trade by taking advantage of strengths in South Africa, Kenya, and Africa.

Mr. Allan Kilavuka, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the partnership’s significance in turning around the fortunes of both KQ and SAA. The future of aviation and its long-term sustenance is hinged on cooperation. KQ and SAA collaboration will enhance customer benefits by availing a larger combined passenger and Cargo network, fostering the exchange of expertise, innovation, best practice, and adopting home-grown organic solutions to technical and operational challenges.

KQ remains committed to its financial turnaround strategy. The pursuit of partnerships is one of the core strategic pillars that shall transform the airline by ensuring its financial viability while offering world class services in Africa and the world.

SAA’s Interim CEO Thomas Kgokolo noted that “This cooperation, which includes demand recovery and other cost containment strategies, will aid recovery of both carriers in an increasingly competitive African airline environment. It will also enhance related Kenya and South Africa tourism circuits, which sectors account for significant portions of respective country growth domestic product, benefiting from at least two attractive hubs in Johannesburg, Nairobi and possibly Cape Town. KQ and SAA, as iconic airline brands of Africa’s biggest and vibrant economies, in East Africa and Southern Africa respectively, are at the precipice of what could be Africa’s formidable Pan African airline.’’

The respective Kenyan and South African governments recognise KQ and SAA as strategic national assets. They are committed to providing an operating environment that will allow for commercial agility and flexibility, shared access to domestic and international markets for the carriers’ mutual benefit.

Kgokolo adds that collaboration will also assist both airlines in the current and post-pandemic business and travel environment. This he says involves, joint recovery strategies and other cost containment strategies that will aid recovery of both carriers in an increasing competitive African airline environment. This agreement does not offer an exclusivity that precludes either of the airlines from pursuing commercial co-operation with other carriers within the current route network strategy.

As a key driver of economic growth, the aviation sector enables quick movement of passengers and cargo, leading to increased economic activity, generating direct and indirect employment. The recognition of this significance to economic development is the impetus behind the cooperation. This cooperation also seeks to address the significant contraction witnessed in the history of the air transport market in the wake of COVID-19. The African air transport market is estimated to be 50% of 2019 (pre-COVID-19), and the situation is expected to last for at least three years.

About Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways, a member of the Sky Team Alliance, is a leading African airline currently flying to 46 destinations worldwide, 34 of which are in Africa. It continues to modernize its fleet with its 32 aircraft being some of the youngest in Africa. This includes its flagship B787 Dreamliner aircraft. The on-board service is renowned and the lie-flat business class seat on the wide-body aircraft is consistently voted among the world’s top 10. Kenya Airways takes pride for being in the forefront of connecting Africa to the World and the World to Africa through its hub at the new ultra -modern Terminal 1A at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.

• For a complete travel guide on Magical Kenya, Where Safari was Born, go to VisitKenya.com

About South Africa Airways
South Africa Airways (SAA) began operations on 1 February 1934. SAA, is a leading carrier in Africa, serving regional destinations between Johannesburg and five African capitals – Accra, Kinshasa, Harare, Lusaka, and Maputo and 1 domestic route between Johannesburg and Cape Town. It is a member of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance. SAA’s core business is the provision of passenger airline and cargo transport services together with related services, which are provided through SAA and its wholly owned subsidiaries: SAA Technical (SAAT), a world class maintenance facility and Air Chefs, the catering entity of SAA. SAAT has particularly been successful in the delivery of high quality maintenance services such as; major airframe checks; engine overhaul; mechanical components; avionics and line maintenance. From our first flight in 1934, SAA have welcomed the world to South Africa by showing off the warm generous heart of the country. The airline has more than 80 years of excellence and innovation to draw on.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Partners with Didier Drogba to Build Opportunities for African Youth

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UNWTO Partners with Didier Drogba to Build Opportunities for African Youth - TRAVELINDEXAbidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, September 29, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and the Didier Drogba Foundation have teamed up to highlight the potential of African youth and ensure that both tourism and sport deliver on their potential to provide opportunities for all.

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Against the backdrop of World Tourism Day 2021 – held under the theme of “Tourism for Inclusive Development” – the United Nations specialized agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the former Chelsea and Côte d’Ivoire footballer.

Didier Drogba is one of the most celebrated and decorated athletes of this century, and the work of the Didier Drogba Foundation is true to the goals of UNWTO

The agreement recognizes that both sport and tourism can play a key role in advancing many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including through promoting cooperation and understanding, as well as through creating frameworks for inclusive economic growth. It also recognizes the shared goals and values of both UNWTO and the Foundation.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Didier Drogba is one of the most celebrated and decorated athletes of this century, and the work of the Didier Drogba Foundation is true to the goals of UNWTO – to provide opportunity to the women and youth of Africa and build a better future for the continent.”

• Read all the latest UNWTO News and Updates here.

Didier Drogba was appointed a UNWTO Ambassador for Responsible Tourism in October 2019. In this role, he provides a bridge between tourism and sport – both sectors with the power to bring people together and promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

World Tourism Day 2021 Inclusive Growth at Centre of Tourism Restart

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World Tourism Day 2021 Inclusive Growth at Centre of Tourism Restart - TRAVELINDEXAbidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, September 27, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Global tourism has reaffirmed its commitment to making the sector a pillar of inclusive growth. At the official World Tourism Day 2021 celebrations in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, political and business leaders united behind a common message of solidarity and determination to ‘leave nobody behind’ as tourism restarts and grows back.

Prime Minister Patrick Achi and Minister of Tourism Siandou Fofana welcomed international delegates, signalling Cote d’Ivoire’s firm support of tourism and Tourism Ministers from 12 countries, the biggest Ministerial participation for an official World Tourism Day celebration. The day featured 1,500 participants, including representatives of international organizations and the private sector.

“Showing tourism’s human face”

Commitment to inclusive growth so that tourism’s restart brings hope for millions worldwide and ensures that everyone who has a stake in tourism also has a say in its future

• For a comprehensive travel guide on the Côte d’Ivoire, Ivory Coast, and Africa go to cotedivoiretourisme.com

The Prime Minister said that “Cote d’Ivoire is proud to host a World Tourism Day like no other. It is important that we realign tourism so the sector meets the hopes and expectations of people. Tourism is a key sector for Cote d’Ivoire’s growth and development. And the right path for Cote d’Ivoire is also the right path for all of Africa, using tourism as a locomotion to drive our economies forward and create jobs for women and youth.” Minister of Tourism Siandou Fofana added that World Tourism Day 2021 “showed the human face of tourism,” stressing the sector’s unique ability to lead recovery from the impacts of the pandemic, in Africa and worldwide.

Innovation, investments and inclusion

Ministers and experts explored how the pledge to drive inclusive growth can be achieved. The importance of innovation, targeted investments and of strengthened collaboration between public and private sectors was made clear. The speakers also underscored the need for inclusive policymaking as tourism slowly returns and looks to the future.

Opening the day, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stressed the sector’s “commitment to inclusive growth so that tourism’s restart brings hope for millions worldwide and ensures that everyone who has a stake in tourism also has a say in its future”.

A future built around shared values

In addition to recognising the challenges of the present, World Tourism Day also looked to the future. In Abidjan, “The Future of Africa” focused on the potential of the continent’s youth as well as its innovators and entrepreneurs. Against the backdrop of World Tourism Day, UNWTO signed two Memorandums of Understanding, reflecting the broad scope of tourism’s reach and relevance. The Didier Drogba Foundation, chaired by one of Africa’s most-recognized and celebrated athletes, agreed to actively commit to UNWTO’s goals and values, above all to providing opportunities for African youth and those living in rural communities. Stressing the importance of tourism as a driver of opportunity for the continent, Channels TV of Nigeria joined as a new UNWTO media partner and will now actively incorporate the theme of tourism for development within its editorial commitments.

• For a comprehensive travel guide on the Côte d’Ivoire, Ivory Coast, and Africa go to cotedivoiretourisme.com

Underscoring UNWTO’s leadership in uniting all of the tourism sector, its Affiliate Members also met in Abidjan, bringing together African businesses as well as civil society leaders, academics and destination management organizations. The side event showcased the benefits of being part of the global Affiliate Members Network and the technical support and networking opportunities available through being part of UNWTO’s work.

First published at TravelCommunication.net

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News