Africa Hospitality Investment Forum to Debut in Cape Town with New Format
Ahmed Bin Abdulqader ـ nabd–alhadath
Cape Town is set to host the 13th edition of the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF), a leading conference for the continent’s tourism and hospitality investment. The event, scheduled for 17th to 19th June 2025 at The Westin Cape Town, plans to introduce a dynamic format to stimulate networking and facilitate deals within Africa’s burgeoning hospitality sector.
The backdrop of Cape Town, renowned for its vibrant tourism scene and stunning landscapes, is expected to add to the event’s appeal. The South African hospitality industry is projected to grow from $1.36 billion in 2024 to $1.68 billion by 2029, fueled by increasing tourist numbers and resurgence post-COVID-19.
Matthew Weihs, Managing Director of The Bench, the organizers of AHIF, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the event to Cape Town. This city encapsulates the potential and vitality of African hospitality. Weihs underscored the event’s potential to offer delegates opportunities to interact with leading decision-makers, explore potential partnerships, and gather insights from industry leaders.
The new event format will feature country pavilions across Africa, showcasing the latest regional opportunities to investors. In addition to personalized itineraries and workshops, the event will offer roundtable discussions, enhanced networking opportunities, and insights into economic trends. The event continues to aim exclusively at C-level executives and decision-makers in the hospitality and tourism investment sector.
Political economist Daniel Silke highlighted the significance of AHIF as an industry-leading global event. The forum not only provides expert speakers and deep insights but also cultivates crucial personal connections in this dynamic industry. He noted that rapid urbanization, demographic transitions, and increased air connectivity in Africa are attracting significant interest from hotel groups.
AHIF is more than just a meeting; it catalyzes action, insight, and strategic partnerships that are shaping the continent’s hospitality future. With the industry growing at an unprecedented rate, the forum promises to be a significant event for shaping African hospitality’s trajectory.
