On a night of high drama in host city, Kigali, the Land of a Thousand Hills, East African countries were recognized and Rwanda ranked Africa’s Leading Destination by World Travel Awards that serve to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.
The glittering event took place at the five star Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre – one of the most recognized modern structures in Africa – alongside the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF) and AviaDev Africa, with hospitality leaders from across the region, in attendance.
Speaking during the ceremony Founder and President, Graham E Cooke, said: “It has been an honour to visit Rwanda for the very first time.
“We have recognized the leading lights of African tourism tonight and I wish to offer my heartfelt congratulations to all of our winners. Rwanda has proved a wonderful host for our Africa Gala Ceremony, cementing the country’s reputation as Africa’s rising star.”
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Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa were also celebrating after scooping the award for Africa’s Leading Hotel Suite and South Africa’s Leading Hotel Suite.
The ceremony – part of World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2017 – was compered by CNBC Africa presenter and producer, George Ndirangu, and passionate DJ and media personality, Makeda Mahadeo. Entertainment was provided by Inganzo Ngari, Rwanda’s most acclaimed traditional dance group, and the Neptunez band.
Winners from the event will go forward to complete in the World Travel Awards Grand Final, this year taking place at the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa in Vietnam on the evening of 10th December.
In the aviation sector, Kenya Airways was selected by voters as Africa’s Leading Airline and Africa’s Leading Airline – Business Class, while Cape Town International Airport walked away with the trophy for Africa’s Leading International Airport.
The travel industry’s leading awards programme also unveiled the host of the 2018 World Travel Awards Africa Gala Ceremony as the Durban International Convention Centre. Conveniently situated in the heart of South Africa’s third largest city, this world-class facility was opened by former president Nelson Mandela in 1997 and has successfully staged some of the world’s most prestigious and complex events.
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