Tanzania to Host World Travel Awards: A Triumph for African Tourism

Tanzania is set to shine on the global stage as it hosts the prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA) for the Africa and Indian Ocean region on June 28, 2025, in Dar es Salaam. This landmark event, coordinated by the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), presents a wealth of opportunities for African travel professionals to connect with international stakeholders and showcase the continent's burgeoning tourism potential.

The WTA, established in 1993, serves as a global benchmark for excellence in the travel and tourism industry. Tanzania's selection as host underscores the country's remarkable progress in developing its tourism sector under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. This recognition not only elevates Tanzania's profile as a premier destination but also reflects the broader growth and dynamism of the African tourism market.

TTB Director General Ephraim Mafuru emphasized the significance of this event, stating that it is a direct result of President Hassan's efforts to promote Tanzania on the global stage. He urged Tanzanians to actively participate in the voting process, highlighting the potential for the awards to further boost the country's tourism sector and attract international investment. This call to action underscores the collaborative spirit within Tanzania's tourism industry and the shared vision of establishing the country as a leading destination in Africa.

Tanzania has received an impressive number of nominations across various categories, showcasing the diversity and richness of its tourism offerings. From iconic natural attractions like Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti National Park to vibrant coastal destinations like Zanzibar, Tanzania offers a compelling blend of experiences for travelers. This diverse portfolio provides African travel agents with a wealth of options to curate unique and unforgettable itineraries for their clients.

The visualization below illustrates Tanzania's remarkable tourism growth trajectory in recent years. The significant increase in tourist arrivals, driven by strategic initiatives such as the Royal Tour documentary and a proactive mass vaccination campaign, demonstrates the country's commitment to developing a thriving tourism sector. This positive momentum creates a favorable environment for African travel businesses to invest and expand their operations, capitalizing on the growing demand for travel to Tanzania.

Tanzania's success in the World Travel Awards is not limited to natural attractions. The country has also received nominations for key infrastructure, including the Julius Nyerere International Airport and the Port of Dar es Salaam. These nominations highlight Tanzania's commitment to developing world-class infrastructure to support its tourism industry. For African travel professionals, this translates to improved connectivity and enhanced travel experiences for their clients.

The chart below provides a detailed breakdown of Tanzania's nominations across various categories. The strong emphasis on natural attractions and national parks underscores the country's rich biodiversity and its commitment to conservation. The recognition of Tanzania's tourism management further reinforces the country's strategic approach to developing a sustainable and thriving tourism sector. This comprehensive approach provides African travel agents with a compelling narrative to promote Tanzania as a premier destination.

The World Travel Awards ceremony in Dar es Salaam will serve as a platform for African travel professionals to connect with international stakeholders, exchange best practices, and explore new business opportunities. The event will attract investors, media representatives, and tourism leaders from around the world, creating a dynamic environment for networking and collaboration. This presents a unique opportunity for African travel businesses to showcase their offerings and forge partnerships that can drive growth and innovation in the sector.

Tanzania's hosting of the World Travel Awards is a momentous occasion for the African tourism industry. It is a testament to the country's commitment to excellence, its rich tourism offerings, and its strategic vision for growth. For African travel professionals, this event represents a valuable opportunity to connect with global stakeholders, showcase the continent's tourism potential, and contribute to a more vibrant and interconnected African travel market.