(Posted 23td September 2025)
Africa Tourism Awards 2025 | Hilton London Canary Wharf | November 2
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOUREE ANNOUNCEMENT
We are honoured to announce Professor Wolfgang H. Thome as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the inaugural Africa Tourism Awards 2025.
A name that resonates across Africa’s aviation, tourism, and conservation circles, Prof. Thome has spent over four decades championing the continent’s potential — as a journalist, tourism consultant, industry analyst, and passionate advocate for East Africa’s natural heritage.
From his in-depth reporting on aviation developments to his fierce protection of wildlife corridors, Prof. Thome has never wavered in his mission: to see Africa recognised, respected, and responsibly explored.
His voice has not only shaped industry narratives but also influenced policy, inspired tourism professionals, and elevated the profile of African destinations on the global stage.
As we gather on 2nd November in London to celebrate African excellence in tourism, we pay tribute to a man whose lifelong contribution to Africa’s tourism ecosystem continues to ripple across generations and borders.
Please join us in congratulating this trailblazer whose work has inspired a continent.
About the Africa Tourism Awards, also known as the Balearica Awards
The inaugural Africa Tourism Awards (The Balearica Awards), a landmark celebration of innovation and leadership in African travel, will take place on 2 November 2025 at the Hilton London Canary Wharf. This event aims to cement Africa’s place in the global tourism spotlight, offering a hybrid experience with a live ceremony and worldwide broadcast to engage a diverse audience.
The awards will honour exceptional destinations, individuals, and initiatives driving Africa’s tourism renaissance. The winners will receive the iconic Balearica statuette, named after the Crowned Crane, one of Africa’s most amazing birds. Featuring 31 categories, from Best Tourism Board to Lifetime Achievement, winners will be selected through a rigorous, transparent process involving expert judges, site inspections, and public voting. The ceremony will convene tourism board chiefs, airline and hospitality leaders, investors, policymakers, and media, fostering collaboration and showcasing Africa’s rich heritage and untapped potential.
“These awards are a clarion call to reframe African tourism,” said Sithembile Sandla, co-founder. “They celebrate a continent brimming with cultural wealth and innovation, urging global stakeholders to invest in its boundless future.”
London, a global nexus with a vibrant African diaspora, was chosen to amplify the continent’s narrative. “Hosting in London places Africa at the heart of international tourism discourse,” said founder Efetobo Awhana. “It’s a bold statement, showcasing our industry’s global relevance and rightful prominence.”
Organised in partnership with leading travel associations and corporate sponsors, the event underscores Africa’s rising stature in tourism. It aims to catalyse investment and partnerships, amplifying success stories that resonate worldwide.
For additional information check out the website – link shown below – or contact:Erhumu Bayagbon
Email: Send Email
Website: https://africatourismawards.com/
Register for the 2025 Awards Now!
The Balearica Awards (Africa Tourism Awards) signify a prestigious recognition for your establishment, allowing you to earn respect and loyalty from both your guests & clients and tourism industry peers.
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