Adjudication

Destination Africa - Lifetime Award

This will be offered to an individual who has made exceptional lifetime contribution in creating positive change in relation to “Destination Africa” beyond the African continent.

Upon completion of the scoring process, the results will be promptly emailed to you.

1
Bontel Adventures Limited (Kenya)

Reason 1: Pioneering Contribution to African Tourism – i have dedicated my career to showcasing East Africa’s beauty, building Bontel Adventures from the ground up, and creating authentic safari experiences that connect global travelers with Africa’s natural and cultural heritage.

Reason 2: Commitment to Growth & Partnerships – Through strategic collaborations with lodges, resorts, and international stakeholders, and by actively participating in expos like MKTE and Africa Travel Indaba, I have championed Africa as a premier travel destination while fostering sustainable industry growth.

Reason 3: Inspiring Leadership & Impact – As a young, visionary CEO, I have inspired the next generation of tourism leaders by blending innovation, customer-focused service, and community-centered travel, positioning Bontel Adventures as a rising force in the continent’s tourism landscape.

Website - Bontel Adventures Limited

2
Safari 56 Limited (South Africa)

Reason 1: Professional tourism services in East Africa.

Website - Safari 56 Limited

3
Cuthbert Simphiwe Ncube (South Africa) - KWELAFLEET MANAGEMENT

Reason 1: He has demonstrated outstanding leadership as chairman of the African tourism board, championing policies and initiatives that promote intra- Africa Travel.

Reason 2: Through his company Kwela fleet management, he has set a benchmark for reliable, sustainable and high -quality transport solutions for tourist and delegates.

Reason 3: He has consistently invested in training programs, mentorship opportunities and local partnerships, empowering communities, creating jobs, and building capacity within the tourism and transport sector.

Website - Cuthbert Simphiwe Ncube

4
Pam Golding Hospitality (South Africa)

Reason 1: Impact he has made in bringing to "life" over 20 hotels in Africa.

Reason 2: Kamil continues to educate, assist and encourage both hoteliers and aspirant hoteliers.

Reason 3: He is live institution about hospitality, its trends, challenges and opportunities and he shares those with the industry.

Website - Pam Golding Hospitality

5
Department of Tourism (South Africa) - Patricia De Lille (Women in Leadership)

Reason 1: Trailblazing Leadership: Hon Patricia de Lille has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills throughout her career, serving as the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure and previously as the Minister of Social Development. Her ability to navigate complex political landscapes and drive meaningful change is a testament to her leadership prowess.

Reason 2: Advocacy for Social Justice: De Lille is a passionate advocate for social justice, gender equality, and human rights. Her commitment to addressing the needs of marginalized communities and promoting inclusive development has made a significant impact on the lives of many South Africans.

Reason 3: Unwavering Dedication: Throughout her career, Hon Patricia de Lille has shown unwavering dedication to public service and the betterment of society. Her tireless efforts to improve the lives of citizens and promote transparency and accountability in government are truly commendable and deserving of recognition.

6
Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture (Ghana)

Reason 1: Exceptional Leadership: Hon Abla Dzifa Gomashie has demonstrated remarkable leadership skills, inspiring others with her vision and dedication. Although specific details about her accomplishments aren't readily available, her nomination would highlight the impactful work of women leaders in shaping Africa's future.

Reason 2: Trailblazing Achievements: As a prominent figure, Hon Gomashie's achievements would serve as a testament to the power of women's leadership in driving positive change and promoting development across the continent.

Reason 3: Inspiring Future Generations: By recognizing Hon Gomashie's leadership, the Africa Women in Leadership Awards would inspire young women and girls to pursue leadership roles, fostering a culture of empowerment and inclusivity in decision-making processes.

7
Kenya Ministry of Tourism (Kenya)

Reason 1: Transformational Leadership in Tourism: Hon Rebecca Miano has demonstrated exceptional leadership as the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife in Kenya. Her strategic vision and initiatives have significantly boosted Kenya's tourism sector, promoting cultural heritage and wildlife conservation.

Reason 2: Economic Development and Job Creation: Under her leadership, the tourism sector has contributed substantially to Kenya's economic growth, creating jobs and opportunities for local communities. Her efforts have enhanced Kenya's global competitiveness and attracted investments in the tourism industry

Reason 3: Advocacy for Conservation and Community Empowerment: Miano is a strong advocate for wildlife conservation and community empowerment. Her work has promoted sustainable tourism practices, benefiting local communities and protecting Kenya's rich natural heritage. Her dedication to empowering women and girls in the tourism sector is particularly noteworthy.

8
Zimbabwe (Zimbabwe)

Reason 1: Strategic Tourism Policy Direction: The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry has introduced a comprehensive policy to support Zimbabwe's ambition to become an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. This policy aims to grow the tourism sector to exceed $5 billion by 2025 and position Zimbabwe as a prime tourist destination.

Reason 2: Tourism Act Amendments: The government is amending the Tourism Act to reflect current socio-economic and political conditions. Key proposed changes include reconfiguring the Zimbabwe Tourism Fund for transparency and accountability, strengthening the registration and grading of tourist facilities, and regulating online booking platforms. Additionally, the Zimbabwe National Conventions Bureau will be established as a standalone entity to maximize business tourism potential.

Reason 3:Cluster Approach: The tourism sector is organized into eleven clusters, including Business Tourism, Sports Tourism, Culture and Heritage Tourism, and Medical Tourism. This approach focuses on developing well-structured programs, training the workforce, and creating robust legal and financial systems.

Website - Zimbabwe

9
Institute of Travel & tourism of The Gambia (Gambia)

Reason 1: He has contributed immensely to the development of tourism in the world which made him as one of the most respected personalities in responsible tourism throughout the world.

Reason 2: His contributions to various development projects in The Gambia and Africa as a whole has to be recognized through these awards.

Reason 3: He is an icon in both African and international tourism.

Website - Institute of Travel & tourism of The Gambia