The 20th edition of the Akwaaba Travel Market, West Africa’s largest travel and tourism exhibition, is set to be a milestone event, featuring debut appearances from several renowned global brands. Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Nairobi from Kenya, Memorial Healthcare Group from Turkey, and Costa Cruises from Italy will join the prestigious event, taking place from September 22nd to 24th, 2024, at Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos, Nigeria.
Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Nairobi, known for its luxurious hospitality and African-themed design, is eager to showcase its offerings to a diverse audience. The hotel’s participation highlights its commitment to connecting with key stakeholders in the African travel market. Joining Mövenpick at Akwaaba for the first time is Memorial Healthcare Group, Turkey’s leading private healthcare organization. Known for its advanced medical services, Memorial Healthcare’s presence at the event underscores the growing significance of medical tourism in Africa, offering new avenues for collaboration and growth.
Costa Cruises, the only cruise line flying the Italian flag and a member of the Carnival Corporation & plc Group, will also make its debut at Akwaaba. Celebrated for its Italian style and hospitality, Costa Cruises aims to expand its reach within the African market, bringing world-class cruising experiences to the region’s travelers.
The 2024 Akwaaba Travel Market, celebrating two decades of shaping Africa’s travel and tourism landscape, promises to be an exciting and transformative event. With over 50 countries expected to participate, this year’s exhibition is set to attract top government officials, industry leaders, and professionals from across the travel, tourism, and healthcare sectors, making it a pivotal gathering for fostering new connections and exploring innovative opportunities.
Over the years, Akwaaba has evolved into a key platform for promoting the diverse offerings of the African travel industry. The event has hosted prominent African leaders, including former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Commonwealth Secretary Sir Emeka Anyaoku, among others. The market has also organized significant initiatives such as the Africa Travel 100 Awards, Medical Tourism editions, and the Africa Youth in Tourism Conference, earning recognition from the Nigerian Government and the UNWTO.
Tourism experts describe Akwaaba African Travel Market as a catalyst for positive change in the travel and tourism sector having come a long way. They anticipate this year’s event as one poised to be a captivating experience for participants.
