(Posted 03rd November 2025)
In a colourful ceremony at the Hilton London Canary Wharf last night did the inaugural Africa Tourism Awards recognize Africa’s tourism icons, tourism talents and tourism accomplishments.
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 Balearica Awards – Africa Tourism Awards
Across the sweeping landscapes of Africa — from the wetlands of Uganda – where it is also the national bird – to the savannahs of South Africa — one bird rises above the horizon with unmatched elegance and symbolism: the Crowned Crane, scientifically known as Balearica.
Adorned with a golden crest that crowns its regal stature, the Balearica is more than just a national symbol (national bird of Uganda and Nigeria) — it embodies resilience, grace, balance, and the deeply-rooted cultural pride of the African people.
But why does this majestic bird inspire a continental celebration like the Africa Tourism Awards?
Symbol of Unity Across Borders – The Crowned Crane is native to several African regions, uniting ecosystems and communities through its presence. It migrates freely across borders, just like tourism connects people, cultures, and economies across Africa.
A Creature of Poise and Purpose – Known for its dignified dance and harmonious calls, the Balearica mirrors the rhythm of Africa’s tourism — vibrant, resilient, and purposeful. It reminds us that our continent’s beauty lies in both its movement and meaning.
The Balearica Statuette – A Tribute to African Excellence
Chosen as the design for the Africa Tourism Awards trophy, the Balearica statuette is more than an award — it’s a symbol of pride, elevation, and excellence. Every honouree who holds it also holds a piece of Africa’s story — a reminder that their work is helping the continent rise, just like the crane in flight.
Among the icons recognized was Kenya’s Julie Dabaly Scott, a trailblazer and passionate advocate for African travel, Julie has dedicated her career to strengthening tourism networks, empowering communities, and showcasing the continent’s authentic beauty to the world.
Also recognized as one of Africa’s tourism icons was Hamilton Jair Fernandes, whose unwavering commitment to excellence and his contribution to advancing tourism development continue to inspire professionals across the continent and beyond.
Allícia Santos is another one of the five recipients of the Industry Icon Award at the Africa Tourism Awards 2025 (The Balearica Awards).
Her leadership and commitment to elevating tourism across Africa exemplify the spirit of excellence and collaboration that the Balearica stands for.
Ibrahim Ayoub meanwhile was recognized for his outstanding contributions to advancing tourism through strategic investments, innovative projects, and visionary leadership. His commitment has not only expanded opportunities within the sector but has also strengthened the foundations of sustainable tourism growth across Africa.
His unwavering commitment to developing tourism infrastructure and fostering sustainable growth continues to elevate Africa’s global standing as a premier travel destination.
Abubacarr S. Camara, Director General of the Gambia Tourism Board, was elected as the recipient of the Tourism Public Sector Official of the Year Award at the Africa Tourism Awards 2025 (The Balearica Awards).
His dedication to promoting The Gambia as a leading destination and advancing regional collaboration has made a lasting impact on African tourism.
Meanwhile are the recipients of the Young Tourism Personality of the Year 2025 Award at the Africa Tourism Awards 2025:
Jessi Madalena
Kagiso Emmanuel Ngwenya
Their drive, creativity, and leadership embody the promise of Africa’s next generation — passionate about change and committed to making a lasting impact on the continent’s tourism story.
Mr. Adebayo Adedeji, Group CEO of Wakanow, was honoured as the recipient of the Special Recognition – Tourism Innovation Award at the Africa Tourism Awards 2025 (The Balearica Awards).
A visionary leader and digital trailblazer, Bayo Adedeji has transformed the way Africans travel. Through his leadership at Wakanow Group, he has driven innovation, expanded access to seamless travel solutions, and positioned technology at the heart of Africa’s tourism growth story.
His work exemplifies the spirit of innovation — creating real impact, connecting markets, and showcasing how African ingenuity continues to shape global travel.
Catarina Oliveira and Lavonne Wittmann were named as recipients of the Women in Tourism Leadership Award at the Africa Tourism Awards 2025 (The Balearica Awards).
Both women exemplify resilience, innovation, and visionary leadership — breaking barriers, mentoring others, and shaping the future of African tourism with passion and purpose.
Catarina Oliveira – Celebrated for her dynamic role in destination marketing and sustainable tourism advocacy across Africa and beyond.
Lavonne Wittmann – A globally respected tourism educator and leader, known for her tireless work empowering women through Skål International Official and industry mentorship.
Mr. David Eduaful, the Managing Director of Labadi Beach Hotel, Ghana, was named as the recipient of the Hotel Personality of the Year Award at the Africa Tourism Awards 2025 (The Balearica Awards).
A true industry leader, David Eduaful has demonstrated exceptional vision, innovation, and commitment to service excellence—setting a benchmark for hospitality standards across Africa. Under his leadership, Labadi Beach Hotel continues to redefine luxury, sustainability, and guest experience in West Africa.
An overview of the total number of awards announced last evening are shown below:
A full list of the winners of the Africa Travel Awards will be published early in the week but in closing can it be revealed that the Founder and Publisher of ATCNews, Prof. Dr. Wolfgang H. Thome, was recognized by the Africa Travel Awards with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
He is a resident of Uganda for the past 33 years and has previously spent 17 years in Kenya – while traveling the Africa and the world at large to promote tourism to and across the African continent.
Said the organizer and founder of the Balearica Awards. Mr. Efetobo Awhana:
‘His name resonates across Africa’s aviation, tourism, and conservation circles, he has spent nearly five 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, he 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 come together 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.’
