South African travellers can book the entire journey – from Johannesburg or Cape Town through to Maun – as a single through-ticket on one Proflight Zambia reservation. Johannesburg travellers fly daily into Lusaka, overnight, and continue to Maun the following morning. Cape Town travellers fly directly into Livingstone, spend time at Victoria Falls, and depart to Maun on a subsequent service, making the journey itself as much a part of the experience as the destinations.

Until now, combining Victoria Falls with the Okavango Delta in a single itinerary required routing back through Johannesburg, adding cost, time, and unnecessary complexity to what is a natural geographic pairing. The new service eliminates that entirely.

Captain Josias Walubita, Chief Pilot and Director of Flight Operations at Proflight Zambia, says the route addresses one of the most persistent frustrations for Southern African safari travellers.

“South African travellers have always understood that Victoria Falls and the Okavango Delta belong in the same itinerary – the geography makes it obvious. What has held them back is the aviation infrastructure to make it practical. With this route, we are opening up a safari corridor that makes one of the world’s great multi-destination wildlife journeys genuinely accessible for the first time.”

The new corridor makes possible what is arguably Southern Africa’s most compelling safari itinerary: Zambia’s South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue National Parks combined with Victoria Falls, then onward to the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and the Makgadikgadi Pans.

Peak season accommodation across both destinations books out quickly. Tickets are available now through Proflight Zambia’s sales offices, via travel agents, or online at flyzambia.com.

Table of Contents

Third annual Media Awards celebrate excellence in African travel journalism across five categories.

Cape Town: Africa Travel Week (ATW) has announced the winners of its 2026 Media Awards, honouring the journalists, photographers and content creators bringing Africa’s travel and tourism stories to global audiences.

Now in its third year, the ATW Media Awards received a record number of entries – over 170 across five categories: Sustainability Feature Award, Visual Tourism Award, Tourism News Award, Destination Feature Award and the Young Talent Award. All were evaluated by a world-class judging panel comprising wildlife photographer and Canon ambassador Ellie Rothnie, Kojo Bentum-Williams of VoyagesAfriq, Barry Nield of CNN Travel, Divia Thani of Condé Nast Traveller and Tom Hall of Lonely Planet.

“These awards exist to shine a light on the storytellers who shape how the world sees Africa,”says Olivia Gradidge, Marketing Manager (WTM Africa & ILTM Africa) at RX Africa, the host and architect of Africa Travel Week. “The quality of entries this year reflects the depth of talent working in African travel media, and we congratulate every finalist and winner.”

2026 ATW Media Awards Winners

Sustainability Feature Award

Gold: Bella Falk, BBC Wildlife Magazine – Dog Stars: On the Trail of African Wild DogsSilver: Savanna Strauss, Rewilding Southern Africa – Rewilding Giants

Bronze: Tafadzwa Mwanengureni, Minority Africa – They Escaped Their Husbands. Then They Took on Poachers.

Visual Tourism Award

Gold: Wiktoria West, Rewilding Southern Africa – Eastern Chimpanzee

Silver: Bella Falk, Passports & Pixels – Ugandan Group of Dancers

Bronze: Aaron Fishbein – The Basotho Herdsman

Tourism News Award

Gold: Jane Gatwiri, NTV Kenya – Twigas on Transit

Silver: Morgan Barnard, Social Safari Africa – Marriott International was preparing to open its new Ritz-Carlton Safari Camp in Kenya’s Maasai Mara

Bronze: Dale Hes, Tourism Update – AI’s Gatekeeper Role: A Threat to African Tourism

Destination Feature Award

Gold: Sam Kemp, National Geographic Traveller UK – Sierra Leone: After the Storm

Joint Silver: Charlotte Wigram-Evans, National Geographic Traveller – Uganda:We are One

Joint Silver: Lorna Parkes, National Geographic Traveller UK – Kenya: Natural OrderBronze: Victor Ayeni, Punch Newspapers – Nigeria: Sango’s Festival Where Ancient Rites Ignite Fire, Thunder

Young Talent Award

Gold: Shereefdeen Ahmad, The Liberalist – How Schengen Visa Denials Are Shutting Africans Out of the Global Stage

Silver: Savanna Strauss, Rewilding Southern Africa – Is Silence Going Extinct?

Bronze: William Muthama, K24 Digital – List of KWS Parks and Reserves You Can Visit for Free on Saturday

“In a media environment flooded with AI-generated content and deepfakes, what we saw in these entries was a reminder of why real journalism still matters,” says Dorine Reinstein from Big Ambitions, ATW’s PR partner. “”The 2026 winners represent the very best of that community: writers, photographers and journalists producing pieces that were grounded, well-researched and honestly told.”

The 2026 ATW Media Awards were presented at the end of Day 1 of WTM Africa during Africa Travel Week.

For media enquiries, contact Sonnette Fourie on +27 81 072 2869 or sonnette@bigambitions.co.za

As the gap widens between ‘marketing sustainability’ and ‘operational reality,’ these awards identify the trailblazers who are turning responsible tourism principles into measurable, scalable business assets.

Important Dates and Entry Information

• Entry Deadline: 17 April 2026
• Awards Ceremony: 22 June 2026 at Experience Africa, London
• Cost: Free to enter
• Limit: Applicants may enter a maximum of two categories.

Following a surge in high-calibre entries in 2025, the 2026 programme retains its ten established categories spanning the full spectrum of regenerative travel, from marine conservation and climate innovation to community empowerment and ethical storytelling. This is a deliberate strategic move. By keeping the criteria consistent, ATTA® is establishing a year-on-year yardstick.

Chris Mears, CEO of ATTA Group Events, explained the shift in expectation:

“By keeping our categories consistent, we are challenging the industry to show us progress. We want to see how last year’s emerging ideas have become this year’s business models. An initiative might look good on paper, but we need to question how it actually changes a life, contributes to saving a species, or alters a supply chain. We encourage all organisations to enter, from small eco-lodges to major operators. If you have a blueprint that works, the industry needs to see, model, and celebrate it.” 

Nigel Vere-Nicoll, ATTA® Honorary President, emphasised that these awards are designed to separate those sayingthe right things from those doing the hard work.

“Africa is setting itself apart as a world leader in regenerative tourism, and these awards are the mechanism by which we validate that claim.” 

The awards apply a double check process on scoring with a selected group of judges. “We have assembled a judging panel that combines historical industry knowledge with the fresh, uncompromising perspective of young changemakers,” added Vere-Nicoll.  

“Beyond recognition, these awards provide a platform for organisations to position themselves as leaders in the eyes of international buyers actively seeking purpose-led partners. Entering is an opportunity to validate their team’s hard work on a global stage,” Vere-Nicoll concluded. 

To enter and view full criteria, visit: https://awards.atta.travel/

For further information please contact: chris@attagroup.events

ABOUT ATTA®

ATTA® (The African Travel and Tourism Association) is the leading pan-African trade association promoting tourism to Africa and the Indian Ocean islands. Known as the “Voice of African Tourism,” ATTA® serves over 900 member businesses, including accommodation providers, tour operators, and travel specialists. It provides accurate industry news, hosts networking events and trade shows, and delivers valuable member training and resources. For more information, visit atta.travel.

Join the ATTA® Media Network to gain access to news about tourism in Africa, access to spokespeople and thought leaders and other media benefits. Email media@atta.travel for details.

About ATTA Group Events:

ATTA Group Events is the foremost platform for connecting African suppliers with top international buyers at various shows. Promoting an expansive range of travel products and unique experiences from across Africa, ATTA Group Events hosts B2B events that are not just a meeting ground but a catalyst for forging essential industry connections, making these #ThePlaceToConnect for the African tourism industry.

The collaboration connects ATTA®’s extensive B2B network – representing accommodation providers, tour operators, and destination marketing specialists – with The Long Run’s internationally recognised 4Cs sustainability model (Conservation, Community, Culture, Commerce). 

“This partnership marks a pivotal moment for Africa’s tourism story. By combining ATTA®’s reach with The Long Run’s proven 4Cs model, we’re empowering our members with the knowledge, tools, and networks to embed regeneration into the core of their operations,” said Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO, ATTA®. 

“Africa holds one‑quarter of the world’s biodiversity; protecting it is both our responsibility and our competitive advantage. Through this collaboration, we’re redefining growth to mean prosperity that also safeguards our heritage and people,” she added. 

This partnership comes as Africa’s travel economy continues to rebound strongly. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) estimates the sector now contributes over US$168 billion to the continent’s GDP. Simultaneously, Booking.com has reported that, as of 2025, over 80% of global travellers want to travel more sustainably, demonstrating momentum for meaningful industry transformation.

How the partnership works

Under the new MoU:

• ATTA® will act as a global ambassador for The Long Run and its 4Cs approach, sharing related resources, case studies, and training opportunities with its members.
• The Long Run will provide ATTA® members access to sustainability tools, frameworks, and select peer‑learning events, and offer discounted membership to eligible operators.
• The two organisations will collaborate on awareness‑building initiatives, joint events, and content that promote measurable sustainability improvements across ATTA’s membership base.

The road ahead

Going forward, the partnership will roll out a series of joint initiatives, including webinars, case‑study exchanges, and workshops for tourism businesses seeking to measure and improve their sustainability performance.

“We’re delighted to partner with ATTA® to accelerate practical action on sustainability in Africa’s tourism sector,” said Dr Anne-Kathrin Zschiegner, Executive Director of The Long Run.

“Our members have proven that long-term success depends on ecosystems and communities in balance. By combining our 4Cs framework with ATTA®’s reach, we hope to support more tourism operators to turn good intentions into measurable impact – strengthening Africa’s role as a global leader in regenerative tourism,” she concluded.

-ENDS-

Please contact Kgomotso Ramothea on info@atta.travel should you need further information | The ATTA® team is available at WTM London 4-6 November at Stand S15-300.

The annual GYTAs, hosted by the WYSE Travel Confederation, recognise global leaders delivering impactful, innovative, and responsible youth travel experiences. The award singles out EcoTraining as the pioneer in conservation education, empowering young people worldwide to connect deeply with wild spaces, learn practical conservation skills, and ignite careers in nature guide training.

A meaningful milestone for conservation education

“This award is a massive honour and a tribute to our exceptional EcoTraining team,” said Anton Lategan, Managing Director of EcoTraining. “Our Head of Sales, Natalie Bochell, received this award in Europe, standing on behalf of all our passionate instructors, staff, and students. We couldn’t be more inspired to take environmental education and professional nature guide training to new heights.”

For over 30 years, EcoTraining has championed education that goes beyond the classroom. Students live and learn in nature-based camps in South Africa, Botswana, and Kenya. Each day in the field – tracking wildlife and learning from nature – builds confidence and ecological understanding that applies in all walks of life. EcoTraining’s ethos is rooted in ecosystem thinking, nurturing a steadfast conservation ethic in every student, whether they’re lifelong learners, career changers, or gap year adventurers. 

EcoTraining Head of Sales Natalie Bochell

A new chapter in Botswana: EcoTraining at Selinda

This year, EcoTraining launches a first-of-its-kind collaboration: the EcoTraining at Selinda Wilderness Experience. Starting January 2026, nature enthusiasts from around the globe can combine luxury with learning by joining purpose-driven courses at Selinda Explorers Camp, set in Botswana’s pristine, 130,000-hectare Selinda Reserve between the Okavango and Chobe.

This partnership with Great Plains Conservation ushers in a new era of travel – moving from passive tourism to hands-on, meaningful engagement. Participants can choose from four specialised experiences:

• EcoQuest (intro to ecology and conservation)
• Wilderness Photography
• Birding in the Bush
• EcoTracker 

Ideal for learners, career changers, safari veterans, and groups seeking something deeper, these courses offer not just adventure but the chance to grow skills that matter for the planet.

“EcoTraining at Selinda is designed for those who want more than a safari – they want understanding, impact, and connection,” said Lategan. 

“This collaboration is about cultivating a generation of nature-based leadership for the world in Africa’s most precious wild places,” he concluded.

Pullman Cape Town is proud to announce the appointment of Thuthukile Moloto as its new General Manager. A seasoned leader with global credentials and local roots, she returns home following nearly two years in Saudi Arabia, where she served as Cluster Director of Quality at Marriott International’s Sindalah, part of the NEOM mega-project in Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk Province.

Her return marks a powerful “homecoming” for a rising hospitality talent, and signals Pullman Cape Town’s continued investment in inclusive leadership and world-class guest experiences.

Enhancing leisure travel experiences

Pullman Cape Town – the first Pullman hotel in South Africa – has quickly established itself as a premium base in the Mother City, setting benchmarks for guest experience, design, and service. Perfectly positioned at the heart of one of Africa’s top-performing tourism cities, it continues to attract both leisure and business travelers seeking a dynamic blend of location, style, and momentum. With Thuthukile Moloto now joining the leadership team, Pullman Cape Town is poised to build on its strong foundation and ongoing success.

In 2024, Cape Town was named Africa’s Leading City Destination (World Travel Awards) for the fourth consecutive year. And in 2025, it topped Time Out’s global list as Best City in the World, based on feedback from more than 18,000 residents worldwide across culture, food, nightlife, affordability, happiness, and overall atmosphere.

“Pullman merges business-ready infrastructure with lifestyle-led design, all set against one of the continent’s most iconic backdrops,” said Willie Williams, Area Director Sales & Marketing: Pullman Cape Town. “Thuthukile joins us not only as an exceptional operator but also as an inspiring voice within a broader shift toward representative leadership across our industry.”

Thuthukile brings more than 15 years of cross-functional hospitality experience across Africa and the Middle East, including senior roles launching or rebranding properties under major international brands such as Marriott International and Protea Hotels. She has managed diverse teams and overseen operations at flagship city hotels, lifestyle destinations, and large-scale resort projects, demonstrating expertise in both operational excellence and guest engagement.

Her most recent position saw her leading quality operations within NEOM – the world’s most ambitious tourism development zone – where she was responsible for upholding rigorous international standards while adapting to new markets. This breadth of experience has shaped her belief that service excellence must be deeply human-centered, intertwining innovation with genuine care.

“My time working abroad changed my understanding of what true hospitality means,” said Moloto. “If we take that level of detail-driven care and pair it with South Africa’s trademark warmth, especially here in Cape Town, we’ll be unstoppable.”

As General Manager, Thuthukile is committed to positioning Pullman Cape Town as the definitive destination for both leisure and business travelers. Her vision centers on creating memorable guest experiences that incorporate international best practices with authentic local touches, deepening sustainable operations, and building an empowered team culture through mentorship and continuous development. She is most excited about introducing guests from around the world to the essence of South Africa’s Mother City, and about curating experiences at Pullman that reflect both the city’s energy and its distinctive sense of welcome.

Thuthukile’s arrival also coincides with Accor’s expanding She Leads initiative, a global movement dedicated to unlocking female potential through mentorship-driven programming focused on empowerment, equity, and collective progress.

As She Leads gains traction across regions – with recent events held at Pullman in Nairobi and Jeddah – Thuthukile’s appointment underscores Accor’s long-standing commitment to building inclusive pipelines into executive leadership roles.

“As a woman leading a premium property like this one,” Thuthukile shared, “I hope my journey inspires other young professionals to see what’s possible when they’re supported by strong mentors, meaningful opportunities, and courageous ambition.”

“Beyond these global trends lies an opportunity uniquely suited to South African travellers: accessing long-haul dream destinations without breaking the bank and exploring both highlights and hidden gems while avoiding overtourism,” says Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa.

So, where does Vietnam fit into all this? With its culture, landscapes, and emerging status as one of Asia’s fastest-growing tourism hubs, Vietnam is so much more than an alternative – it’s the destination for adventurers looking for authentic experiences outside of crowded hotspots like Phuket or Bali.

Why now is the perfect time for South Africans to rediscover Asia

The numbers tell a compelling story: by 2025, leisure travel spending across Asia will reach an incredible 35% share of global totals (source: Tourism Economics), while 50% of air passenger growth over the next decade will come from this region (source: IATA). But what does this mean for South African travellers? It signals opportunity.

1. Visa-free travel & simplified entry: Countries across Southeast Asia are rolling out initiatives to welcome international tourists with open arms – and streamlined paperwork! Vietnam now offers a user-friendly e-visa system where South African citizens can apply online for up to 90 days’ access at affordable rates (approximately $25–$50). Processing takes just three to five working days – perfect for last-minute planners or those eager to lock in their trip early.

For digital nomads or slow travellers seeking longer stays, other destinations like Thailand are extending visa-free periods or facilitating remote work permits, which means it’s easier than ever before to throw yourself into local cultures without bureaucratic headaches.

2. Expanded accessibility through flights: While there are no direct flights from South Africa to Vietnam yet – a reality that may change given growing demand – leading airlines such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines offer seamless connections through their hubs. With departures from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) and Cape Town International Airport (CPT), total flight durations range from approximately 19 hours upwards depending on your route.

“Why not turn unavoidable stopovers into part of the adventure? Popular transit hubs like Doha (Qatar Airways), Dubai (Emirates), and Singapore (Singapore Airlines) offer excellent opportunities to explore additional destinations en route without adding significantly more travel costs,” comments Turner.

3. Affordability meets luxury growth: Despite inflationary pressures globally impacting some long-haul destinations like Europe or North America, many parts of Southeast Asia remain surprisingly affordable without compromising quality. Add in high-end luxury developments – from beachfront resorts along Da Nang’s coastline to boutique stays tucked away in Hanoi’s Old Quarter – and you’ve got options catering equally well to budget-conscious families and indulgent honeymooners alike.

Vietnam – a fresh alternative

Thailand has long been seen as the quintessential Asian escape – and rightfully so – but tourist favourites like Phuket or Bangkok often come with crowds that can overwhelm even seasoned travellers during peak seasons. Enter Vietnam: a country offering all the cultural richness one might expect but with fewer selfie-sticks blocking your view!

Emerging gems worth exploring:

• Da Nang: Once considered merely a stopover en route between Hoi An’s ancient town charm and Hue’s imperial history sites, Da Nang has blossomed into a standalone destination featuring gorgeous beaches complemented by upscale dining scenes.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Known primarily amongst adventure seekers rather than mainstream tourists (for now!), this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts some of Earth’s largest caves alongside flourishing jungle trekking trails.
• Mekong Delta Villages: Step away from throbbing urban centres into rural waterways where floating markets provide glimpses into everyday Vietnamese life untouched by modern tourism’s frenetic pace.

Practical planning tips for SA Travellers

With Asian travel firmly back on the radar after years of restrictions, competition for flights, accommodation, and experiences is heating up. For South Africans eager to make the most of their journey to Vietnam – or elsewhere in Asia – here are some essential tips to ensure smooth planning and a memorable trip:

Book early to snag the best deals

Flight Centre’s Travel Experts recommend securing flights at least 3 to 6 months in advance when travelling during peak periods like December or midyear school holidays.

“With Vietnam requiring one or more stopovers from South Africa, availability can shrink quickly as demand rises across Asia in 2025. By booking early, you’ll not only save money but also have your pick of ideal routes and layover durations,” advises Turner.

Understand Vietnam’s seasons before you go

Vietnam’s climate varies significantly depending on where (and when) you visit. Here’s a breakdown by season to help South Africans plan their trips wisely:

Spring (March–April):

• Best time for: Visiting northern regions like Hanoi or trekking through Sapa’s rice terraces. Comfortable temperatures and limited rainfall make outdoor adventures enjoyable.

Summer (May–August):

• Best time for: Beach escapes in Da Nang or Phu Quoc Island. However, be prepared for higher humidity levels and occasional monsoons in central.

Autumn (September–November):

• Best time for: Exploring cultural hubs like Hue or Ho Chi Minh City under crisp skies. This is an ideal time if you’re keen on avoiding crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather across much of the country.

Winter (December–February):

• Best time for: Cruising Halong Bay under misty skies – a magical experience unique to colder months. Caveat for SA visitors used to warm Decembers? Temperatures can drop significantly in northern Vietnam during winter – pack accordingly!

As we move into 2025, it’s clear that Asia is staging one of travel’s biggest comebacks. While Thailand sets travel trends, Vietnam is quietly redefining them – concocting getaways revolving around warm hospitality, authentic experiences, and smaller crowds to deliver the kind of all-encompassing journey seasoned travellers hunger for. And now’s the perfect time to satisfy the craving!

FLIGHT CENTRE TRAVEL GROUP SOUTH AFRICA

Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) SA is part of Flight Centre Travel Group, an Australia-based international travel company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, with a market cap of AU$4.0 billion and a current share price of AU$18.02 as of 10 February 2025. FCTG with three leading brands: Flight Centre, Corporate Traveller and FCM, of which Corporate Traveller and FCM are proud level 1 BBBEE Contributors. FCTG SA is wholly owned and has been recognised as one of Deloitte’s Best Companies to Work for in South Africa for over a decade.

At a recent AviaDev Africa workshop, which was hosted in collaboration with the SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance, airline executives stressed tourism boards’ power lies in leveraging market data and industry relationships to convince sceptical carriers of new routes’ long-term viability.

“Tourism is more than just leisure; it’s a critical economic activity that requires strategic thinking and collaboration across sectors,” said Kojo Bentum-Williams, UN Tourism’s Senior Africa Communications Expert.

Sylvain Bosc, former Chief Commercial Officer of SAA and Fastjet, stressed the importance of demonstrating sustained profitability. “Destination marketing organisations (DMOs) must sell a long-term vision highlighting the destination’s growth prospects and economic impact,” he said. “Creative incentives like co-marketing, reducing airline costs, and quantifying passenger volumes can be more powerful than direct subsidies.

”Bosc noted DMOs need to “bring new light” to data airlines already have by offering insights into upcoming local economic developments like new mines or infrastructure projects that could drive corporate traffic. “Local insights can provide airlines with the confidence they need to invest in new routes,” he said.

Natalia Rosa, Project Lead of the SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance, underscored the critical role of aviation in regional development: “Aviation is not a luxury, it’s the lifeblood of a modern regional economy. Improved air connectivity unlocks a range of benefits: it streamlines travel, opens doors for new tourism markets, and strengthens regional economic ties.”

Gavin Eccles, Head of Vertical at BAE Ventures, emphasised tourism boards must be “at the table” with compelling cases backed by local market insights, travel trade ties and unique selling points that airlines often lack.“Tourism boards should not only provide data but also offer a local perspective that airlines may not have,” Eccles said, citing India’s successful “Incredible India” branding undermined by poor connectivity.

Regional coordination like aligned visa policies, joint itinerary promotion and tapping conservation funds can also help finance route development. But Tim Harris of Helm Growth Advisors cautioned: “Retaining and expanding existing airline services should be the priority before attracting new routes.”While direct subsidies face sustainability questions, Bentum-Williams said other incentives enable an “environment of trust” for profit-focused airlines.“There’s a need to change the narrative from just paying airlines to fly routes to creating an environment of trust and confidence,” he said.

Jillian Blackbeard, CEO of Africa’s Eden Tourism Association, highlighted successful collaboration with Proflight through local stakeholder and trade backing, building airline confidence without major incentives.“We worked closely with Proflight and local stakeholders to ensure that routes were supported by the trade and the private sector, which helped build confidence in the airline and led to successful route development without significant financial incentives,” Blackbeard shared.

Coordinated efforts leveraging DMOs’ destination expertise can unlock increased connectivity – a lifeline for Africa’s tourism economies long grounded by poor air links.

The AviaDev Africa workshop was designed as a platform for action to address the challenges of the aviation industry and collaborate on solutions. The intention from the outset was to examine how tourism stakeholders, including national tourism organisations and private sector tourism associations, can become involved in route development and assist airlines with route promotion. The success of the workshop and has now secured it a place at AviaDev 2025 in Zanzibar. Scheduled for the welcome reception day before the main conference, it will equip tourism delegates with essential route development building blocks and comprise two days of networking and collaboration focused on reshaping African aviation’s future.

The unveiling of the new tourism destination brand marks a pivotal moment in the region’s journey towards promoting conservation, sustainable tourism, and community empowerment in the respective TFCA components across the five partner countries – Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Spanning an area of approximately 520,000 square kilometres, the KAZA TFCA is the world’s largest terrestrial transfrontier conservation area. The new brand embodies the region’s rich biodiversity, iconic wildlife, vibrant cultures, and the life-giving rivers that connect it all.

“Today marks a defining moment for conservation and sustainable tourism in Africa,” says Dr. Nyambe Nyambe, Executive Director of the KAZA Secretariat. “The ‘Rivers of Life’ brand embodies our unwavering commitment to preserving the extraordinary natural and cultural heritage of the Kavango Zambezi eco-region. It is an invitation to the world to join us on a transformative journey, where the power of unity and collaboration knows no boundaries.”

The new tourism destination brand, developed by The Journey Tourism Consultant and Management, encapsulates a unique value proposition: The Rivers of Life, rich in natural and cultural diversity to share with all who love wildlife without borders.

The visual identity of the new tourism destination brand features a graphic depiction of an elephant, a keystone species whose migratory nature highlights the need for transboundary collaboration among the five KAZA countries.  

Encircling the elephant are dynamic brushstrokes in bold colours – yellow, red, blue, and green – representing the rivers, landscapes, and the vibrant cultures of the KAZA eco-region. Each colour has been carefully chosen to convey a specific aspect of Kavango Zambezi – from the warmth and energy of the African sun and its beautiful sunrises and sunsets to the blue lifeblood of the TFCA, the mighty rivers that sustain wildlife and communities, and the lush green vegetation.

A brand forged through collaboration

The development of the new Kavango Zambezi destination brand has been inclusive and participatory.

The brand launch event was graced by the presence of high-level leadership representatives from all five partner countries, underscoring the strong political commitment to this initiative. Also in attendance were key stakeholders from the tourism industry, conservation organisations, donor agencies, and local community representatives, reflecting the multi-sectoral and collaborative spirit of partnership that birthed the Kavango Zambezi “Rivers of Life” tourism destination brand.

“The journey to this momentous day has been one of extensive consultation, collaboration, and co-creation. Over the past year, we have engaged with a wide spectrum of stakeholders – from government representatives and conservation experts to tourism operators and local community leaders – across all five partner countries. This inclusive approach has ensured that our new brand is a true reflection of the shared values, aspirations, and unique attributes of the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area,” explains Dr Nyambe.

The new brand represents a bold vision for the future: To see Kavango Zambezi as a well-known and valued tourism destination actively promoted by the tourism trade and appreciated by local stakeholders who can measurably see the benefits of both conservation and tourism.

To achieve this vision will require the KAZA Secretariat to:

• Follow the five governments’ lead in implementing strategies for ease of access.
• Collaborate with the tourism trade both locally and internationally to:
  • Promote awareness of Kavango|Zambezi.
  • Develop special interest products.
  • Design routes that promote cross-border travel and extend duration of visits.
  • Provide easily accessible information.
• Actively seek to ensure the inclusion of local communities.
• Ensure sustainable conservation, including consumptive use of resources, is appreciated.
• Promote the ideals of eco-tourism.
• Make a conscious contribution to combatting climate change.

“Our new brand is an open invitation to the world to experience the wonders of the Kavango Zambezi landscape,” says Dr. Nyambe. “By visiting Kavango Zambezi, travellers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the African wilderness while contributing directly to conservation efforts and the well-being of the communities who call this landscape home.”

KAZA TFCA: A new chapter begins

In the coming months, the Kavango Zambezi “Rivers of Life ” brand will be rolled out across various platforms, including brand workshops, social media, and marketing materials. The KAZA Secretariat will work closely with partner organisations to integrate the new brand into their communications and marketing efforts, ensuring a coordinated and impactful brand presence.

As the KAZA TFCA embarks on this new chapter, the organisation remains committed to its core values of conservation, cooperation, and community empowerment. With its new brand as a catalyst, KAZA TFCA further enhances its stature as a leading model for sustainable development in Africa, demonstrating that thriving wildlife, resilient communities, and responsible tourism can coexist in harmony.

For more information about the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area and its new destination brand, please visit www.kavangozambezi.org and uncoverkaza.com.

About Kavango Zambezi Trans Frontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA)

The Kavango Zambezi Trans Frontier Conservation Area is the world’s largest terrestrial trans frontier conservation area, spanning five southern African countries – Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Established in 2011, KAZA TFCA represents an ambitious vision for conservation, sustainable development, and regional integration. The KAZA Secretariat, formed under the KAZA Treaty, plays a vital role in coordinating and facilitating these efforts, working with a wide range of partners to achieve a shared vision for a thriving and resilient KAZA landscape.

WTM Africa 2024 hosted 705 exhibitors and 5,752 industry professionals from 99 countries. The buyer attendance was notably diverse, featuring strong representation from emerging markets like Greece, Philippines, Switzerland, Singapore, Lithuania, New Zealand, Ghana, China, Japan, and Argentina. This influx of new buyers contributed to the impressive 10,505 pre-scheduled meetings conducted during the event. This expanded reach promises increased investment and awareness for African destinations worldwide.

“The enormous increase in buyers highlights the growing confidence and investment in Africa as a compelling travel destination,” said Carol Weaving, Managing Director, RX Africa. “WTM Africa is a serious business event, and our goal is to facilitate connections that lead to tangible growth for the African tourism sector. This year’s success underscores that commitment, and we are thrilled to see such a positive response.”

“The enormous increase in buyers highlights the growing confidence and investment in Africa as a compelling travel destination,” said Carol Weaving, Managing Director, RX Africa. “WTM Africa is a serious business event, and our goal is to facilitate connections that lead to tangible growth for the African tourism sector. This year’s success underscores that commitment, and we are thrilled to see such a positive response.”

A highlight of WTM Africa 2024 was the inaugural African Media Awards, recognising exceptional reporting on tourism, travel, and hospitality in Africa. The awards celebrated the crucial role journalists play in promoting the continent’s destinations and experiences.

The renowned Responsible Tourism Awards, sponsored by the V&A Waterfront, also returned, honouring businesses and initiatives that prioritise sustainable and ethical practices within the travel sector. These long-standing awards align with WTM Africa’s commitment to driving positive change and promoting responsible tourism across the continent. The trophies for the Responsible Tourism winners were provided by Ngwenya Glass.

Additionally, WTM Africa 2024 featured the highly-anticipated Trends Report, providing invaluable insights into the latest industry developments. The event’s speaking programme was a resounding success and brought together the who’s who of the African tourism industry including among others representatives from Cape Town Tourism, Weeva, Singita, the TBCSA and many more. The speaking programme was sponsored by LIFT, who provided flights for speakers and hosted buyers.

New this year was the Brain Box, offering interactive sessions and hands-on learning opportunities for attendees. This innovative addition allowed industry professionals to engage with material in a more immersive and practical manner.

“We are incredibly proud to have launched the African Journalism Awards and introduced exciting new elements like the Brain Box,” added Weaving. “These initiatives, combined with our established programmes, demonstrate our commitment to driving innovation and elevating the African travel industry.”

As WTM Africa looks ahead to 2025, the event remains steadfast in its mission to facilitate business opportunities, foster meaningful connections, and showcase the diverse and captivating travel experiences that Africa has to offer.