African diaspora contributes to tourism & hospitality growth

The hospitality and tourism sector in Africa is on the cusp of a major transformation as the continent navigates the post-COVID landscape and embraces the growing impact of the African diaspora. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Hamid Sidine, a Hospitality Consultant for Onomo Hotels, shed light on the outlook for 2025, highlighting key trends, opportunities, and the resilience of the industry. Onomo Hotels, a Pan-African brand, is making its mark in Abuja, Nigeria, with Onomo Allure, a premium and upscale hotel that seamlessly blends African culture with international standards. Sidine shared that the hotel offers 148 rooms, including 20 suites with a breathtaking view of the city, as well as dining options, a banquet hall, gymnasium, and conference facilities. The expansion plans of Onomo Hotels include a partnership with the African Bank to replicate the success of Abuja in Harare, emphasizing a shared vision for growth. One of the key trends driving the sector post-COVID is the shift towards experiential travel, where guests seek memorable experiences over generic products. Sidine highlighted the importance of building relationships with guests, understanding their needs, and creating emotional connections to enhance the overall experience. While traditional markets like Lagos, Abuja, and Abidjan continue to lead, Sidine pointed out a growing interest in North Africa, South Africa, and West Africa as emerging destinations. He emphasized that Africa's diverse offerings cater to the experiential traveler, positioning the continent as a key player in the global tourism landscape. Despite geopolitical uncertainties and trade tensions, Sidine remains optimistic about the resilience of the African hospitality and tourism sector. Citing successful events like the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the upcoming 2034 edition in Morocco, he believes that Africa's growing maturity and readiness make it a safe bet for investors and travelers alike. Sidine's confidence in the sector's ability to overcome challenges stems from the talent and expertise of Africans involved in driving its success. With a deep understanding of the market and a commitment to providing exceptional experiences, Sidine envisions a bright future for African hospitality and tourism, underpinned by the influence of the African diaspora.