In an extraordinary display of Africa’s growing influence on global tourism, Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa emerged as the big winners at the 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA) Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony, held on June 28, 2025, at the Johari Rotana Hotel in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The evening celebrated excellence in travel, destination development, and service innovation, with African nations taking the spotlight in over 80 categories.
The 2025 WTA ceremony was a testament to Africa’s burgeoning role in the international travel scene. From stunning national parks and beach resorts to exceptional airlines and private island retreats, the event highlighted Africa’s commitment to sustainable tourism, heritage preservation, and cutting-edge innovation.
Countries like Zambia and Mozambique also secured key awards, showcasing the diverse beauty and rich culture of the African continent. The ceremony marked the opening of the 2025 WTA regional series, a series of events that unite tourism leaders from across the globe.
These awards not only celebrate the unique qualities of each country but also highlight Africa’s dynamic tourism and hospitality sector that continues to grow in global stature.
This year’s WTA ceremony in Dar es Salaam wasn’t just about recognizing the winners—it was about showcasing Africa’s ability to adapt, innovate, and lead in global tourism. The ceremony honored not just large-scale projects, but also small, yet impactful, ventures making a difference at the grassroots level.
Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa continue to build a sustainable tourism infrastructure that attracts travelers from around the world, eager to explore the continent’s unmatched wildlife, culture, and natural beauty. As global attention shifts toward eco-tourism, Africa’s commitment to sustainability and community-based travel stands as a shining example.
As the regional awards came to a close, the winners now set their sights on the WTA Grand Final, scheduled for December 9, 2025, in Bahrain. Here, Africa’s top travel brands will compete against the world’s best in prestigious categories such as World’s Leading Destination and World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Initiative. The final ceremony promises to be a global gathering of industry leaders, investors, and media, celebrating the future of travel and tourism.
The 2025 WTA not only highlights Africa’s leading role in the global tourism industry but also sets the stage for even greater success in the future. As sustainable tourism continues to grow in importance, the African continent is leading the charge with groundbreaking initiatives and innovations.
Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa’s recognition at this prestigious event marks just the beginning. The rest of Africa’s countries are sure to follow suit, as the continent continues to emerge as a tourism powerhouse.
The 2025 WTA ceremony showed that Africa is at the forefront of global tourism. With the focus on sustainability, heritage, and community engagement, the continent is redefining the future of travel. Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa are leading the charge, but the growth and impact of African tourism are just beginning. As the WTA Grand Final approaches, all eyes will be on these nations as they continue to shine on the world stage.ntries are setting the bar for the future of travel and tourism worldwide.
