(Posted 06th March 2026)
Step up and showcase your impact! World Travel Market (WTM) Africa is urging responsible tourism stakeholders to submit their entries for the Responsible Tourism Awards before the 20 March deadline.
Free to enter and open to companies of all sizes, including emerging startups and individual
entrepreneurs, the awards spotlight initiatives solving real challenges and shaping the future of
tourism in Africa. Winners will be announced on 14 April in the Host City of Cape Town at the
Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) during WTM Africa 2026.
“Established in 2004, these prestigious annual awards remain a leading platform for
championing responsible tourism businesses that are not just talking about sustainability, but
driving it,” says Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director at RX Africa. “It’s a celebration of those
inspiring action, and paving the way for a more inclusive and transformative industry.”
“We are very excited for the upcoming World Travel Market Africa Responsible Tourism
Awards, and I am looking forward to seeing the range of entries representing the travel and
tourism practitioners who are making a positive difference in our country, and particularly here in
Cape Town,” says Geordin Hill-Lewis, Executive Mayor of Cape Town before concluding: “As a city that has built such a strong global reputation as a travel destination, we understand
very well the value that tourism holds for our economy. But it is equally important that this
tourism is managed sustainably, that local communities benefit, that we celebrate the full
spectrum of our cultural diversity, and that we preserve our natural resources for generations to
come. That’s why these awards are so important to us, and I have no doubt we will see some
very deserving winners next year,”.
Registrants can apply for the following six categories:
1. Local Economic Benefits – Supporting local businesses and keeping tourism spend in
local hands
2. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – Empowering underrepresented voices in tourism
3. Nature Positive – Protecting biodiversity and natural heritage
4. Championing Cultural Diversity – Promoting dignity, pride and understanding in
communities
5. Adapting to Climate Change – Building resilience through innovation and
preparedness
6. Regenerative Tourism – Restoring and renewing communities and ecosystems
Entries will be judged by a panel of respected industry leaders, including travel professionals,
association heads, government representatives and independent media. Gold and Silver
awards will be presented, along with a special ‘One to Watch’ accolade recognising innovative
concepts already demonstrating early impact.
“Each year we ‘discover’ businesses and destinations making tourism better, and we promote
them,” says Professor Harold Goodwin, WTM Responsible Tourism Advisor before adding:
“If you don’t enter, you can’t be recognised! Gold winners announced at WTM Africa 2026 are
automatically entered into the Global Awards, placing Africa’s leading changemakers on the
world stage alongside peers from Latin America, Europe, the Indian Subcontinent and
Southeast Asia.”
Winners can also link directly to their citation on the ICRT.global website, providing credible
third-party validation and powerful marketing collateral.
“Don’t miss your chance to be seen,” adds De Jager. “Winning, or even being named a finalist,
delivers more than global recognition. It strengthens your brand credibility and connects you
with industry leaders from around the world.”
With the deadline fast approaching, now is the time to act. Apply before 20 March to showcase
your impact, gain international recognition and position your business at the forefront of
responsible tourism. Nomination forms and full category details are available on the WTM Africa
website. All completed applications must be submitted online here.
