Africa Tourism Investment Conference unveils powerhouse speaker line-up

(Posted 16th March 2025)

The Africa Tourism Investment Conference (ATIC) at WTM Africa 2025 is bringing together the biggest names in tourism investment. With JLL Africa as the lead sponsor and a powerhouse speaker line-up, this event is where key information will be shared on the future of hospitality, resorts, and infrastructure across Africa.

Heavyweights such as Hamza Farooqui (Millat Global Holdings), Anthony Leeming (Sun International), and Wayne Godwin (JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group) will share insider insights on financing, risk assessment, and investment trends shaping African tourism. Club Med’s Tinley Manor will also be in the spotlight, offering an exclusive look into one of South Africa’s most anticipated developments.

“We’re not just talking about investment. We’re equipping industry leaders with the knowledge to overcome challenges, secure financing, and make successful, high-impact investments in hotels, resorts, and infrastructure.” says Megan De Jager, RX Africa Portfolio Director.

The Heavyweights in the Room

This year’s speaker line-up reads like an investors’ power list. Here’s a sneak peek of some of the speakers:

? Hamza Farooqui (CEO Millat Global Holdings) – Behind some of Southern Africa’s
most significant hotel investments and acquisitions.

? Anthony Leeming (CEO Sun International) – Leading large-scale casino,
entertainment and resort development.
? Chris du Toit (Project Director Tinley Leisure – Club Med) – Overseeing what is
South Africa’s most exciting new resort.
? Anabel Bishop (Chief Economist Investec) – Breaking down economic trends
influencing hospitality growth.
? Wayne Godwin (Co-CEO JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group) – A key player driving
global hospitality deals in Africa.
? Tim Harris (CEO Helm Growth | Former CEO Wesgro) – A leading voice on creating
an attractive investment climate for African tourism.
? CEO and Chairman of SMIT (Morocco) – A key figure driving tourism investment and development in Morocco.

“This is the calibre of speaker you won’t find at any other African event,” adds De Jager. “We’re talking about people who’ve closed the deals from multiple perspectives”

“Seeing the impressive programme of speakers confirmed for this year’s Africa Tourism
Investment Conference, it is clear that this event means business and should not be missed,” said Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.

What Will Be Discussed?

Key sessions will focus on what it takes to unlock successful investments in African tourism today. One panel will tackle how investors assess risk versus return, breaking down exactly what financiers look for when backing new projects – from loan terms and equity stakes to branded operators’ impact on financing conditions. Another session will focus on the mechanics behind successful deals, with case studies from those who have led major acquisitions and developments across urban hotels and leisure destinations.
One of the most anticipated discussions will explore whether private safari lodges can become scalable investments – moving beyond boutique passion projects into structured asset classes that attract institutional funding.

Also on the cards is a fireside chat with Club Med that will offer exclusive insights into how they’re structuring their highly anticipated Tinley Manor project.

With investments on the table across resorts, city hotels, safaris, mixed-use developments (and growing investor appetite for diverse assets), the conversations happening here will define where capital flows next.

“Tourism investment is accelerating,” added De Jager. “If you want access to real opportunities – and real decision-makers – you need to be here.”

How to Attend

Registration is now open for accredited investors, developers, and industry stakeholders.
Spaces are limited.

Secure your place now: https://www.wtm.com/africa/en-gb/conference-programme/tourism-investment-forum-africa.html

Dates: 10 April 2025
Venue: Global Stage, CTICC Cape Town