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Category: INVESTMENTS

  • Stears Announced as Lead Sponsor of AFSIC – Investing in Africa 2023

    Empowering Africa-Focused Investments with Data-Driven Insights

    LONDON,United Kingdom,July 25,2023–Stears, one of the world’s leading providers of African data and insights, has been announced as the Lead Sponsor of AFSIC – Investing in Africa 2023. AFSIC 2023, Africa’s Investment Event, which will be held in London on the 9th and 10th October 2023, is the meeting place for focused networking, discussions and executing African investment deals. It has for the past ten years delivered year on year growth as well as success for African companies seeking funding and companies wanting to grow globally.

    Stears’ sponsorship of AFSIC – Investing in Africa 2023 reflects its commitment to promoting investment opportunities in Africa, driving capital inflows and increasing the ease of doing business for investors. The conference allows attendees to discover new investment opportunities, forge valuable business partnerships, and exchange critical insights on the African market.

    “We are thrilled to be the lead sponsor of AFSIC – Investing in Africa 2023”, stated Preston Ideh, CEO of Stears. “Stears is committed to fostering an environment where African investors can thrive. Our sponsorship of AFSIC aligns perfectly with our mission to provide reliable and actionable intelligence to global decision-makers interested in Africa. Through this partnership, we aim to enable more quick, accurate decisions for both financial and operational opportunities on the continent.”

    Stears’ deep expertise with African data and AFSIC’s prestigious platform will create an environment where Africa-focused conversations and connections can flourish. The conference will provide a unique opportunity for investors to learn about the latest trends in the African market and network with leading industry figures.

    Stears join a growing group of prestigious sponsors who are supporting AFSIC 2023 as they celebrate their tenth anniversary and the commitment of so many underlines the importance of AFSIC’s continued focus on driving investment into Africa.  Country-focused investment summits, high level networking, investor meetings and industry relevant content are just some of the sessions that AFSIC 2023 will deliver, once again supported by many of Africa’s most important investors, Prosper Africa, a wide range of Development Finance Institutions, and leading African corporate executives.

    For more information visit our website www.afsic.net.

    About Stears:

    For global organisations investing in African markets, Stears is the data and insights provider that enables quick, accurate decisions for financial and operational opportunities. Stears customers access raw data from various sources, trend data for a wide range of data sets, and constantly updated analysis by researchers. Unlike other providers, Stears goes beyond just data to provide insights and context based on knowledge of local markets and delivers it all in an easy-to-use interface usable by anyone.

    About AFSIC – Investing in Africa:

    AFSIC – Investing in Africa has become perhaps Africa’s most important annual investment event. The event is owned by Africa Events Limited. AFSIC is wholly focused on accelerating Africa’s economic emergence by matching investment opportunities in Africa transforming Africa’s business, trade and investment environment, growing Africa’s economy, reducing poverty, and increasing African incomes in all business sectors at a continental scale across all 54 countries in Africa.

    African Investments Limited (www.africaninvestments.co), a sister company to Africa Events Limited, operates two multi award-winning digital platforms, the AFSIC African Investments Dashboard which matches investment opportunities to our global network of institutional investors and the Africa Business Opportunities Dashboard, which matches business, trade and investment opportunities across Africa covering all business products, sectors, countries in Africa and multiple business objectives. The digital platforms won the global 2022 Salesforce Partner Innovation Award for Financial Services.

    Resources:

    www.afsic.net

    www.africaninvestments.co

  • Invest in Niger Spotlight at African Energy Week (AEW) 2023 to Connect E&P Players with Industry Leaders

    Invest in Niger Spotlight at African Energy Week (AEW) 2023 to Connect E&P Players with Industry Leaders

    The 2023 edition of African Energy Week will host an Invest in Niger Energies country spotlight, promoting opportunities, facilitating investment and kickstarting a new wave of project developments in the country
    JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, July 7, 2023/ — The Government of Niger is making great strides towards opening the domestic market for foreign investment, working closely with a suite of energy players and investors to drive long-term and sustainable developments.

    As the market grows, the regulatory environment has been made that much more attractive, and the Government is inviting investors to join the burgeoning sector.During this year’s edition of the African Energy Week (AEW) conference and exhibition – scheduled for October 16-20 in Cape Town – a dedicated Invest in Niger Energies country spotlight session will provide potential investors with crucial insight into the developing market. Comprising a roundtable discussion, technical presentations, networking event and deal rooms, the summit serves as a networking and engagement hub for the country’s energy sector and is set to unlock a wave of opportunities and outcomes.At the center of the country spotlight is collaboration.

    While Niger currently produces an average 20,000 barrels of crude oil per day, efforts to ramp up exploration and the development of regional pipelines are set to increase these levels substantially. The country holds approximately 3.7 billion barrels of proven oil reserves and over 24 billion cubic meters of recoverable gas reserves, thus creating an exciting investment prospect. High oil exploration success, attractive fiscal terms and relatively low operational costs associated with the market promise high returns for players.

    As such, the AEW 2023 country spotlight will provide crucial updates into upstream prospects, avenues for investments and both regional and global trends. Notwithstanding an upstream push, Niger is making progress towards connecting domestic basins to regional consumers through the construction of cross-border pipeline networks. With much of Niger’s crude exported to regional markets including Nigeria, Mali and Burkina Faso, the country is eager to increase exports and facilitate intra-African trade.

    Projects underway include the 2,000 km Niger-Benin Pipeline, connecting Diffa in Niger to Bight of Benin. The project is currently 75% complete and on-track to transport crude this year. Additionally, the multi-billion Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline is making progress with a taskforce and roadmap established for its development by the respective ministries of Niger, Algeria and Nigeria.

    The 4,128 km pipeline will run from Warri in Nigeria to Hassi R’Mel gas field in Algeria via Nigeria, creating a direct connection between Nigeria and Algeria’s gas fields while bringing significant benefits for Niger.Meanwhile, opportunities for investment transcend hydrocarbons with Niger making progress to expand its renewable energy sector. Investors have already expressed their interest in investing in the promising market, with Niger offering abundant solar and wind resources.

    Savannah Energy Niger Solar inked a deal with the Government this year for the development of two solar power plants with a combined capacity of 200 MW, following a 2022 deal between the company and country for the construction of a 250 MW wind project.

    These projects barely scratch the surface of Niger’s clean energy potential, and the AEW 2023 country spotlight will connect new players to Nigerien opportunities.“The opportunities for investment in Niger cannot be overstated. As a relatively untapped market, the country is inviting regional and global players to participate and help grow the entire energy value chain from oil and gas exploration to processing and refining to distribution and retail.

    The AEW 2023 country spotlight is a unique opportunity for potential investors and project developers to meet with Nigerien leaders, discuss opportunities for collaboration and sign deals,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC, adding that, “AEW 2023 takes place under a mandate to make energy poverty history by 2030. Investing in Niger’s energy sector will not only enable the continent to achieve this goal but promises high returns on investment for participating players.

    ”The Invest in Niger Energies represents just one of many country spotlights set to take place during this year’s edition of AEW. Representing the premier event for the African energy sector, AEW 2023 is committed to making energy poverty history by 2030 by providing a platform where stakeholders can meet, network and sign deals. Taking place in Cape Town from October 16-20, AEW 2023 serves as the biggest gathering of energy stakeholders on the continent.

    For more information, visit. www.AECWeek.com

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.SOURCE
    African Energy Chamber
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  • Investing in Africa Conference & Expo 2023 Gets Set

    Investing in Africa Conference & Expo 2023 Gets Set

    Now in its 10th year, AFSIC – Investing in Africa is set to host another world-class gathering of Africa-focused businesses, dealmakers and investors to discover and execute investment deals, network and share insights in London on 9-10th October 2023.

    IFC, Accion, Verdant Capital, RMB, Old Mutual, Citibank and more than 120 speakers are confirmed to present exceptional content in a highly structured, multi-stream programme which includes focused sessions on Banking, Informed Investing, Building, Fintech Innovation, Sustainable Growth, Agriculture and Power.

    The highly popular country investment summits led by in-country experts facilitate deep dives into specific African countries to explore and debate local issues and investment opportunities with interactive Q & A sessions.

    Underpinned by the Award-Winning AFSIC African Investments Dashboard, the expanded Quickfire sessions and investor networking sessions will showcase a wide range of African start-ups, growth companies and Africa-focused funds that are seeking capital, for a variety of different projects from zero emissions logistics solutions to secure payments systems to SME-target funds. Quickfire presenters benefit from a range of promotional opportunities across the group’s investor network in the lead up to AFSIC.

    British International Investment, Executives in Africa and FSD Africa head up an impressive group of loyal sponsors and partners with 27Four, Ebury, Mitco and Bank One welcomed as new sponsors for 2023. These sponsors exemplify African expertise in investment, financial services and human resources and will share key insights into the African investment ecosystem.

    The beating heart of physical events is physical networking which at AFSIC is driven by highly interactive sessions, panel debates, B2B meetings via the Event App and social functions.

    Don’t miss out on networking at the leading gathering of Africa-focused investors. Listen, learn and debate at presentations, country summits, quickfire pitch sessions, networking sessions, informal chats and social events – all making AFSIC 2023 an unmissable opportunity.

    AFSIC 2023 www.afsic.net

  • Global fintech giant invests in sustainable communities in West and Southern Africa 

    Global fintech giant invests in sustainable communities in West and Southern Africa 

    Having pioneered the development of online trading and digital investment solutions 22 years ago, global fintech company Admirals is today considered a market-leading provider of an innovative range of online trading and investment products.  

    The Admirals suite of products includes leveraged Contracts for Difference (CFD) products in the over-the-counter market, including Forex, indices, commodities, digital currencies, stocks, and ETFs, as well as listed instruments to retail, professional, and institutional clients. 

    The company is steadily increasing its footprint in Africa, having opened its first African office in Cape Town, South Africa in July 2022, followed by the launch of its Lagos office in Nigeria in February this year.

    Admirals currently serves clients across 176 countries world-wide.  

    With a physical presence in 18 countries across developed and emerging economies, Admirals is deeply committed to bridging the financial inclusion gap that spans across continents, economies, and societies. 

    “Financial freedom is a universal objective,” says Boriss Gubaidulin, Admirals Africa Director. “By offering simplified retail trading and investing processes and solutions, supported by accessible financial literacy and education material, we aim to encourage greater access to global financial markets in a transparent, secure, and sustainable manner,” he says.  

    “As we continue to expand our footprint, we are constantly witnessing the many social, economic, and environmental challenges affecting societies the world over,” he continues. “As a reputable neobroker with a growing base of savvy and socially conscious clients, Admirals is actively living its commitment as an ethical, and socially and environmentally responsible global citizen to drive the betterment of communities in which we operate,” Gubaidulin says. 

    In 2020, Admirals developed and rolled out its global environmental, social and governance (ESG) program which directs its strategic corporate social investment initiatives. These projects range from tree planting and reforestation, clean ocean initiatives, investing in renewable energy and scarce resource management projects, recycling, and the development of better living conditions for local communities. 

    Admirals’ ESG philosophy 

    Admirals has been at the industry forefront by engraining the principles of ESG as part of its strategic business imperatives. Incidentally, Admirals has taken on a carbon-neutral status in 2020, which is firmly integrated into the Admirals overall business model.  

    The company engaged a global third-party rating agency, ClimatePartner, to verify its carbon footprint, as well as certify the CSI projects in which Admirals is involved. 

    Here on the African continent, Admirals has been involved with two sustainable water management and renewable energy initiatives in Sierra Leone and South Africa respectively.  

    Project 1: Clean drinking water in Kono, Sierra Leone  

    Sierra Leone is a largely rural country where households typically use wood fuel on inefficient three-stone fires to purify their drinking, cleaning, and washing water. This process results in the release of greenhouse gas emissions from the combustion of wood. 

    However, these emissions can be avoided by using efficient borehole technology that does not require fuel to supply clean water. 

    Admirals’ support is helping communities in the Kono region to restore 57 wells. In cooperation with the local population, damaged wells are repaired and regularly maintained, which secures the regional water supply. The availability of clean drinking water eliminates the need to boil water, saving an average of 10,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year. 

    Not only does this initiative contribute to climate action but it also has a major social impact. In these rural areas, water sources are often located far from residential areas. Women and children, who are primarily responsible for fetching water, may have to travel long distances, sometimes several kilometres, to access water. This not only consumes their time and energy but also poses safety risks, especially for women and girls. 

    Project 2: Investing in the future of South Africa’s sustainable clean energy generation 

    South Africa has been in the grip of a severe energy supply shortage in recent years, and every effort possible is being made to generate additional electricity capacity. Admirals has heeded the call for investors to help drive clean energy projects by pledging its support to one of the country’s largest wind projects.  

    Close to the rural town of De Aar in South Africa, 96 wind turbines have been producing an average of 439,600 MWh of electricity per year since 2017, which is being fed into the South African grid. The aim of the project is to harness the region’s wind energy potential to balance its energy needs in a sustainable way. This diversifies the power supply and improves energy security in regions that are frequently affected by power shortages and outages. 

    The share of electricity now supplied by the wind farm would have otherwise been generated by fossil fuels. The wind power project avoids about 433,920 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year, which makes an important contribution to a clean energy supply and sustainable development with respect to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

    In addition to the environmental benefits, the project assists the local community by creating jobs and improving the access to healthcare through its Mobile Health Clinic. Offering primary healthcare, dental, eye care services, more than 36 000 residents and members from nearby communities have been screened and serviced by this clinic. 

    The project supports local football clubs by funding equipment, events, travel and much more. It also provides financial funds to the Richmond Untied Ladies Football Club, the only female club in De Aar playing in the premier league. 

    The project supports a math enrichment programme for pupils in 10 primary and 4 high schools to encourage interest in this subject. Three Early Childhood Development Centres were renovated to support about 155 children between 2 and 6. About 108 students are currently on the project’s bursary scheme that covers tuition, accommodation, books, food, and laptops. 

    “Contributing meaningfully to society is one of the cornerstones of our business,” Gubaidulin says. “Admirals considers the environment, our actions, and the influence we can create as global leaders. We are deeply committed to leaving a legacy through shared success and by creating flourishing communities across the globe,” he concludes. 

    —————————————————————————————————————————————— 

    Admirals Group AS 

    Admirals Group AS is a global growing FinTech company, offering a wide range of products and services worldwide, meeting people’s needs and making personal financial management easy-to-use, affordable and secure through its regulated investment firms. 

    The online investment service providers that are owned by Admirals Group AS, are authorized to offer their clients with the ability to trade Forex, and CFDs on, inter alia, indices, metals, energies, stocks, bonds and digital currencies, but also to invest in Stocks and ETFs (product offering may vary depending on each investment service provider’s license obligations and the client’s country of residence). 

    Over the years, Admirals has received internationally recognized and respected awards and recognitions, including the ‘Best Broker of 2022’ awards from both Area de Inversion and Traders.com, as well as the Traders.com award for ‘Best Financial analyst of 2022’.  

    Since founded in 2001, Admirals continues to experience worldwide growth and evolution and is committed to providing its clients around the globe with advanced trading tools, access to financial security and various customer care policies.  Admirals is licensed in the Seychelles, UK, Cyprus, South Africa, Australia, Jordan, Canada and Kenya. 

    For more information about Admirals visit admirals.com. 

    Trading involves risks.  

  • CHIC Implements Accor digital solutions across owned portfolio in DRC

    CHIC Implements Accor digital solutions across owned portfolio in DRC

    Five hotels, including Novotel Kinshasa La Gombe will integrate Accor’s innovative digital solutions including mobile solution Accor key and Opera cloud systems 

    Compagnie Hoteliere et Immobiliere du Congo (CHIC), the leading hotel owner and developer in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), at  AHIF 2023 in Nairobi, Kenya, announced the implementation of Accor driven digital solutions covering five hotels of the CHIC group, opening soon under under the Novotel and Ibis Styles brands across 4 cities, bringing 660 keys to the country. 

    This implementation, according to the official statement, aims to offer a unique experience to customers, due to the deployment of Accor’s innovative digital solutions which will be the first in DRC to integrate cloud solutions with mobile keys and Opera Cloud systems.

    These solutions, it noted, will facilitate “Fast Check-in and Check-out” for guests and allow them to access their room via their smartphone offering the option to avoid visiting the Front office as well as benefit from latest guest centric tools, fully mobile with optimized management of hotel operations. The move will further assist in reducing the ecological footprint of the hotels by limiting the use of paper and magnetic cards

    “We are delighted to partner with Accor, a major player in innovation in hospitality, to offer our customers an unprecedented experience in the DRC. The decision to bring the Accor Key and other cloud-based solutions to our hotels demonstrates our commitment to invest in cutting-edge solutions that exceed the needs and expectations of travellers, staying at any of our five hotels across DRC,” says Mr. Khalil Manji, Partner – CHIC”.

    “This strategic partnership with CHIC strengthens our presence and leadership in the DRC, a key market in Africa. We are proud to collaborate with a renowned hotel group that shares our vision of augmented hospitality and our commitment to sustainable development”, We are convinced that our innovative digital solutions will add value to the hotels of the CHIC group”, says Clinton Govender, IT Director Southern Africa at Accor

    The digital key solution allows customers to use their smartphone to open the doors of ACCOR hotels. Without a physical key, they can enter their room, the meeting rooms, the elevators and other spaces. The application is compatible with Android and iOS systems and is integrated with the Accor ALL Loyalty application.

  • CityBlue Opens in South Sudan and Tanzania

    CityBlue Opens in South Sudan and Tanzania

    Openings in July 2023

     Date: 13 June 2023

    CityBlue Hotels, Africa’s fastest-growing local hotel chain, is pleased to announce the signing of management agreements and the commencement of operations from July 2023 of the CityBlue Panorama Hotel & Suites, Juba, South Sudan and Urban by CityBlue, Masaki, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

    The CityBlue Panorama Hotel & Suites in Juba is a 72-key property upscale mid-market property located in the airport zone in Juba, South Sudan while Urban by CityBlue in Dar es Salaam is a boutique 65-key lifestyle property with a rooftop restaurant.

    Andat Ghidey, director of the development company owning the CityBlue Panorama Hotel & Suites, said that CityBlue Hotels has developed a defined strategy of covering all East African markets, making it a natural partner to expand alongside. “CityBlue has a clear and distinguished history in East Africa – with properties in every city. Juba is the only market it is yet to penetrate. We will support CityBlue in the South Sudanese market across rooms, food, beverage and conferencing”.

    Khalil Hamadi, director of the property company behind Urban by CityBlue, Dar es Salaam, said that CityBlue had worked closely with its partners in Tanzania since 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, and he strongly believes that the business plan will now turn into reality. “Every member of CityBlue understands their role and we are almost ready to turn this partnership into a new dawn for the hotel market on the peninsula of Dar es Salaam”.

    Jameel Verjee, Founder & CEO of CityBlue Hotels, said “Our homework has been done and we have a fantastic team which understands African hospitality. We are focused on results – in terms of occupancy, rates, ESG targets, customer satisfaction, stakeholder support and human resource development. Juba and Dar es Salaam are two exciting markets and we proud to have such partners”.

    ABOUT CITYBLUE HOTELS

    CityBlue was founded by Jameel Verjee in 2013 as an African-born brand which he has developed from inception. Having opened the first CityBlue hotel in Rwanda in 2013, CityBlue has now expanded across eight major cities in East Africa, following a path to create one of the leading multi-jurisdictional African hotel chains. It is anticipated that by end-2024, CityBlue will have added to its existing portfolio with hotels across seven African countries and approximately 2,000 keys. 

    CityBlue’s portfolio features the following sub-brands: Urban by CityBlue in the business boutique space, Residences by CityBlue for long-stay guests, CityBlue Hotel & Suites in the business budget space and the CityBlue Collection for charming hotels that maintain their identity. A new venture called c3 was launched in 2023 as a smart hosting and property management company for the sub-Saharan African market. 

    ABOUT THE DIAR GROUP

    The Diar Group, a UAE-based office established by the Verjee family, includes a hospitality arm called Diar Hospitality, a hotel management company. The operations of CityBlue Hotels, its African-born hotel chain, are managed by Diar Hospitality.

    The Diar Group is also engaged in cultural heritage and philanthropy in East Africa.

  • Radisson Hotel Group announces seven new hotels in Africa for the first half of 2023, maintaining its growth momentum across the continent

    Radisson Hotel Group announces seven new hotels in Africa for the first half of 2023, maintaining its growth momentum across the continent

    Radisson Hotel Group continues its ambitious growth in Africa with the signing of seven new hotels, adding over 1,400 rooms to its African portfolio.  

    The new hotels expand the Group’s brands, spanning from upscale to premium luxury lifestyle with a new market entry in Gambia and the introduction of new brands in key markets with the first Radisson Collection in Nigeria and Egypt, the first Radisson RED hotel in Nigeria, and the introduction of the Radisson brand in Kenya.   
    As one of the fastest-growing hotel companies in Africa, Radisson Hotel Group plans to further strengthen its robust African presence this year beyond signings with at least seven hotel openings and over 1,400 rooms.

    These openings include the Group’s first hotel openings in Reunion Island and Ghana and expanding its resort presence in Casablanca and Saidia in Morocco as well as in South Africa, Egypt and Tunisia.   Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer at Radisson Hotel Group comments: “Thanks to the relevance of our brands and trust of our owners, we have a successful growth momentum in Africa thus far, this year. With the continent remaining a focus market for us, we are committed to further contribute to the African hospitality industry, providing more possibilities to our guests and employment opportunities to the local communities.’’  
    Speaking at the Africa Hotel Investment Forum in Nairobi, Ramsay Rankoussi, VP, Development, Africa & Turkey at Radisson Hotel Group said: “We are thrilled to be maintaining our growth momentum across Africa, bringing our tally of new signings for 2023 so far to seven hotels and over 1,400 rooms.
    An even better indication of our growth is the materialization of our pipeline into openings, where we have led consistently the biggest market share for the last 36 months, translating to a commendable 15 percent growth on our African portfolio, year-on-year, placing us well on track to reach our objective of 150 hotels within the next five years from 100 hotels today. Our rate of materialization and openings is a testament not only to the quality of our pipeline but also reflects our conversion strategy in repositioning existing hotels under one of our brands. We are also proud to further entrench our stance as the operator with the most extensive presence in Africa with once again a new market entry as the only hotel operator.”
      The new hotel signings include:
    Radisson Collection Resort, Marsa Alam Port Phoenice Scheduled to open in early 2025, the resort, which introduces Egypt to the Group’s premium lifestyle brand, Radisson Collection, will be situated in Port Phoenice on the Red Sea, 
    a waterfront premier integrated resort community boasting luxury residents, golf estates, water activities, retail centers, hospitals, and schools and easily  accessible from Marsa Alam International Airport (only 35 minutes’ drive away).

    The resort location makes it an excellent spot for a vacation, with venues for dining, entertainment, boutique shopping, cultural expedition, activities, and lively nightlife located all nearby. The newly built resort will comprise of 294 rooms, including 20 suites, all carefully curated with a mix of Mediterranean and Italian architecture.

    The resort will offer a lobby lounge, one all-day dining restaurant, one high-end specialty restaurant, as well as a stunning beach restaurant, and a beach bar with mesmerizing sea views. The resort will also offer a fitness center, diving center, a theatre, kids club, several pools, and direct access to the beach.
    Radisson Collection Hotel & Conference Center, Abuja The new-build, 249 room hotel will be Abuja’s first luxury hotel and will further expand the Group’s Radisson Collection portfolio in Nigeria as the country’s third Radisson Collection hotel 
    and the premium lifestyle brands debut in Abuja. The hotel will have an expansive range of rooms, from standard rooms and apartments to lofts and presidential suites. Spanning across almost 3000 square meters, the meeting spaces will consist of a dividable conference hall, five meeting rooms, a board room, as well as a pre-function area.

    Located next to the Presidential Palace in Maitama District, one of the most sought after and exclusive areas in Abuja, the hotel will be a 45-minute drive from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the country’s second busiest airport after Lagos. In proximity to the hotel is the city’s most popular market, Wuse market, Jabai Boat Club, a water based recreational facility and family entertainment center, and Abuja National Mosque, also known as the Nigerian National Mosque, built in 1984.  
    Radisson Blu Beach Resort & Spa, Banjul The new-build, 462 room hotel currently under construction, marks the Group’s debut in Gambia as the first internationally branded hotel in the country. 
    Scheduled to open early 2025, the resort will be located in the Bijilo region in Banjul, the country’s capital city, spanning over 17 hectares with direct access to the ocean, surrounded by tranquil, picturesque landscapes.

    The resort will offer large, contemporary rooms, presidential apartments, and royal villas as well as five food and beverage outlets, including a cocktail bar, an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, poolside restaurant and beach bar.

    Other hotel facilities will include a fitness and wellness center.  The 3,025 square meters meetings and events space with beach access, will consist of a conference hall, 12 meeting rooms, conference room, board rooms, reception, pre-function area and banquet showroom.
    Radisson Blu Hotel Abuja CBD Following the recent signing of Radisson Collection Abuja, is the announcement of the first Radisson Blu hotel in Nigeria’s capital city, the Group’s 10th hotel and 3rd Radisson Blu in Nigeria.
    The 104-room hotel, scheduled to open early-2025, will be in Abuja’s Central Business District (CBD), 45 minutes from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.  The hotel will have a stylish piano bar and an all-day dining restaurant along with fitness and wellness facilities and 245 square meters of meetings and events space.
    Radisson RED Lagos VI Further expanding the Group’s presence as its 11th hotel in Nigeria and 7th hotel in operation and under development in Lagos, is the highly anticipated debut of the bold and cutting-edge upscale Radisson RED brand in Nigeria.
    The new-build, 62 room hotel scheduled to open end-2025 will introduce the country to the renowned Radisson RED brand and its unique food and beverage concepts through its lobby bar, all day dining restaurant and rooftop bar and terrace which in true Radisson RED style will become the most coveted rooftop venue in the country. 

    Additional facilities will include a gym and pool along with 249 square meters of flexible meetings and events space, consisting of a conference room, a board room and two meeting rooms. The hotel will be located just over 30 minutes’ drive from Lagos Murtala Muhammed Airport, in Victoria Island, the main business and financial center and one of the most sought-after residential areas in Lagos, which has the highest hotel performance in West Africa due to its financial hub status and size of its economy.
    Radisson Hotel Nairobi Airport The Group’s 4th hotel in Kenya and first Radisson property in the country, is the new build, 200 room Radisson Hotel Nairobi Airport, scheduled to open mid-2027. With proximity to JK International Airport, the property will be easily accessible to tourists as well as business travelers. 
    It is also 22km from Nairobi National Park, the only national park in the world in proximity to the city. The hotel will have a lobby bar and an all-day dining restaurant as well as extensive facilities including a gym, spa, pool, retail unit and crew lounge. The meetings and events area will consist of a conference room, two meeting rooms, a board room and a business center.
    Radisson Hotel Algiers El Mouradia Marking the Group’s second hotel in the country, complementing the Radisson Hotel, La Baie d’Alger, currently under construction and bolstering the limited internationally branded hotel supply in Algiers is the country’s second Radisson hotel, scheduled to open mid-2026
    Located in the sought after El Mouradia district, known as the home of the Algerian presidency, several ministries and embassies, the 148-room hotel is also in proximity of the city center and Port of Algiers, standing as the main port of Algeria and just 15km west from Algiers International Airport.  

    With an array of food and beverage outlets, the hotel will include an all-day dining as well as a signature restaurant, a juice bar and sky bar all with flowing terraces and a coffee bar and coworking space, in true Radisson style, providing the balance between work and leisure. Further enhancing this concept is the meetings and events space which will consist of a ballroom, a conference room and 4-5 meeting rooms and the leisure facilities, comprising of a swimming pool, retail area, spa, hair salon and sport & fitness gym 
    MEDIA CONTACTS   SAADIYAH HENDRICKS, Area Director, PR & Social Media, Middle East & Africa, Radisson Hotel Group saadiyah.hendricks@radissonhotels.com   DEVELOPMENT CONTACT   RAMSAY RANKOUSSI, Vice President, Development, Africa & Turkey, Radisson Hotel Group Ramsay.rankoussi@radissonhotels.com          
  • Radisson Hotel Group:7 New Hotel Signings in Africa in Pictures

    Radisson Hotel Group:7 New Hotel Signings in Africa in Pictures

    Radisson Collection Resort, Marsa Alam Port Phoenice-1
    Radisson Collection Hotel & Conference Center, Abuja+2
    Radisson Collection Hotel & Conference Center, Abuja+3
    Radisson Blu Hotel Abuja CBD+4
    Radisson RED Lagos VI+5
    Radisson Hotel Nairobi Airport+6
    Radisson Hotel Algiers El Mouradia+
  • 12th Edition of Annual Investment Meeting Closes on a Positive Note

    12th Edition of Annual Investment Meeting Closes on a Positive Note

    AIM attracted 10,313 visitors from 175 countries, who engaged in 281 sessions featuring 693
    speakers

    Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, May 25, 2023: The 12th edition of the Annual Investment Meeting
    2023, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan,
    Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, came to a grand close,
    after three days of insightful discussions, engaging exhibitions, and fruitful networking sessions.

    This year’s theme “The Investment Paradigm Shift: Future Investment Opportunities To Foster
    Sustainable Economic Growth, Diversity and Prosperity” aimed to provide a platform for global
    investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to explore new opportunities and partnerships that will
    drive sustainable economic growth and development.

    Commenting on the successful conclusion, H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for
    Foreign Trade, said, “The Annual Investment Meeting has been a resounding success.

    The annual event has once again provided a platform for business leaders, investors, and government officials
    to come together and explore new avenues for collaboration and investment. As the world continues
    to face unprecedented challenges, and the rapidly evolving global economic landscape, it is more
    important than ever for us to work together and find innovative solutions to these challenges. At this
    year’s AIM, we have seen first-hand the power of collaboration and innovation.

    From the engaging discussions and insightful presentations to the numerous business deals that have been made, this event has demonstrated the tremendous potential of international cooperation. I am confident that
    the relationships and partnerships that have been forged here at the AIM will help to bring about a
    brighter future for us all. I look forward to seeing the fruits of our collective efforts in the months and
    years to come.”

    His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development
    (ADDED), said: “The success of the Annual Investment Meeting 2023 reflects Abu Dhabi’s status as
    global hub for business, investment, and talent as well as the role it plays in setting agenda and
    leading conversations to address current and future challenges and opportunities.

    This year’s edition of AIM served as a platform to engage with key decision-makers, investors, thought and business
    leaders from around the world to double down on the unique attributes of Abu Dhabi’s soaring
    ‘Falcon Economy’ and the ample opportunities it provides to the global investment community to
    grow, thrive, and expand.”

    H.E. Al Zaabi added: “We remain committed to build on our remarkable achievements and continue
    to thrive as the most competitive destination for industry, trade, and finance by offering unparalleled
    business-friendly ecosystem to help global businesses succeed and flourish.”

    Over the course of the event, AIM attracted 10,313 visitors from 175 countries worldwide, who
    engaged in 281 sessions featuring 693 speakers who shared their perspectives, insights, and
    experiences on investment trends, opportunities, and challenges in various sectors and industries.

    This year’s edition of AIM was particularly notable for the 23 Memorandums of Understanding
    (MoUs) signed on the sidelines of the event, including the six Tolerance and Coexistence MoUs such
    as those between the UAE and the Republic of Kazakhstan, the UAE and the Republic of Armenia,
    and the UAE and the Island of Guinea, among others.

    The MoUs, signed between government entities, financial institutions, and private sector firms from
    different countries, covered a wide range of sectors and industries, including finance, healthcare,
    education, energy, and technology. The MoUs aim to promote strategic partnerships and
    collaborations that will drive investment and economic growth across different regions and sectors.

    The AIM 2023 also featured an engaging exhibition that showcased the latest innovations, products,
    and services from different sectors and industries. The exhibition attracted a diverse range of
    exhibitors from different countries and sectors, who demonstrated their products and services and
    engaged with visitors and stakeholders. Some of the key exhibitors were Abu Dhabi Chamber, Abu
    Dhabi Global Market, WeGo, Saud Bahwan, Emirates Development Bank, and Hong Kong Trade
    Development Council.

    Commenting on the success of the event, Dawood Al Shezawi, Chairman of Annual Investment
    Meeting, said: “As we conclude this year’s Annual Investment Meeting, I would like to express my
    gratitude to all of the participants, speakers, and organizers for making this event a tremendous
    success.

    It has been a privilege to witness the many engaging discussions, insightful presentations,
    and innovative ideas that have been shared over the past few days.

    The AIM has always been a platform for bringing together leaders from the worlds of business, finance, and government, and this year’s event has been no exception. From the challenges and opportunities to the latest trends
    and developments in investments, technology and innovation, we have explored a wide range of
    topics that are shaping the future of investment and economic development.

    “As we look ahead to the coming months and years, I am confident that the relationships and
    partnerships that have been forged here at the AIM will help to drive economic growth and create
    new opportunities for people around the world. We must continue to work together to find
    innovative solutions to the challenges we face, and to build a more resilient, sustainable, and
    inclusive global economy.

    Once again, I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the
    success of this year’s AIM, and I look forward to seeing you all again at future events.”

    The AIM 2023 demonstrated the importance of collaboration, innovation, and sustainable
    development in driving economic growth and prosperity, and the next edition of AIM promises to be
    even more exciting and engaging.

  • Boosting Africa’s Job Creation and International Tourism

    Boosting Africa’s Job Creation and International Tourism

    Africa’s Top Rated Hospitality Investors due Nairobi

     ……As Africa Hospitality Investment Forum(AHIF 2023) Holds

     Story: Mohammed Abu

    The Organizers of Africa’s premier hospitality industry event, the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum(AHIF),the Bench, announced on Wednesday that, Africa’s top notch and largest hospitality industry investors are due, Nairobi, Kenya and would be live on stage for the 2023 edition of the event.

    The investors the official announcement said, include Olivier Granet, Managing Partner & CEO, Kasada Capital Management, Alyshia Mangalji, VP Europe & Africa, Westmont Hospitality Group, Rahul Chaudhary, Managing Director, CG Corp Global and more.

    Investors of their caliber, the announcement noted, can help to fund projects that create thousands of jobs and boost international tourism, which is a major source of export revenue for many African countries.

    Their presence, alongside numerous other hotel owners, it added, has attracted top hospitality executives, government ministers, officials, bankers, consultants, and industry experts from over 50 countries to network and discuss the most pressing issues affecting the development of hotels across the continent.

    The AHIF program will cover a wide range of topics, including global risks and their impact on Africa’s hospitality industry, achieving net-zero targets, implementing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies, access to capital, transformational travel, hotel development challenges and opportunities, hotel financing criteria, successful tourism entrepreneurship, operational excellence, the importance of human skills, alternative accommodation, emerging market dynamics, the latest trends, the future of hospitality investment in Africa and more.The event is further enhanced by AviaDev Real Estate, which overlaps with the last day of AHIF.

    It offers high-level discussion and case study presentations on successful airport real estate projects. Pre-set appointments will connect the owners and operators of African airports to those with the finance, expertise, and contacts to help them maximise revenue from their airport infrastructure, including from hospitality, as well as retail, cargo, warehousing, and other activities.

    Sponsored by Host Partner, Actis and Westmont Hospitality Group, Radisson Hotel Group; Reception Host: Kasada Capital Management; Accor, Aleph Hospitality, BWN Hotels, CHIC, CityBlue Hotels, Colliers, Equate, Hansgrohe, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Insignia, among several others, AHIF 2023 offers a highly influential speaker line-up that includes:

    Hon. Peninah Malonza OGW, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Tourism & Wildlife Kenya

    Haitham Mattar, MD MEA & SW Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts

    Peter Greenberg, Travel Editor, CBS News

    Rajan Datar, Host of BBC Travel Show & BBC World News

    Pat Thaker, Economist Intelligence Unit

    Thomas Mundy, Head of Capital Markets Strategy & Research EMEA, JLL

    Jameel Verjee, Founder & CEO, CityBlue Hotels

    Catherine Hendry, Principal: Property Finance Africa, Nedbank

    Srividya Jagannathan, Manager Consumer and Social Services, International Finance Corporation, World Bank Group

    Vimbai Masiyiwa, CEO, Batoka Hospitality Group

    Karim Cheltout, Regional Vice President, Lodging Development Africa & All-Inclusive EMEA, Marriott International

    Trevor Ward, Managing Director, W Hospitality Group

    Billy Cheung You Tung, Chairman of the Board, Century Park Hotel and Residences Ltd

    Dupe Olusola, CEO, Transcorp Hotels

    Hamza Farooqui, Founder & CEO, Milat Investments

    Wytze Van den Berg, VP EMEA, BWH Hotels

    Daniel Silke, Political Futures Consultancy and an array of other impressive individuals, discussing more topics such as empowering women, green tech, and regional sourcing.

    “We feel honoured to have such an exceptional list of speakers for this year’s Africa Hospitality Investment Forum,” said Matthew Weihs, Managing Director of the bench.

    “Their expertise and unique perspectives will undoubtedly produce enlightening discussions on the key issues shaping the African hospitality industry. Thanks to their engagement and our commitment to providing a platform for industry leaders to connect and collaborate, AHIF will continue to play a vital role in driving investment and growth in the sector.” Mr.Weihs intimated.

    The Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF) is the premier gathering of industry leaders, investors, government officials, and hospitality professionals in Africa. It provides a platform for discussing investment opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, and promoting sustainable growth within the African hospitality sector.

    With its dynamic program, influential speakers, and networking opportunities, AHIF drives investment and development across the continent.

    Over the past 25 years, Bench has established a legacy for delivering business forums and conferences in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. It has built a reputation for delivering immersive virtual events, energizing masterclasses and innovative B2B digital strategies for its clients.

    For more details about AHIF, which takes place on 12th – 14th June in Nairobi, and to register for the event, please visit www.ahif.com.