By: Alieu Ceesay
At least seven people from The Gambia’s tourism sector have been recognized among Africa’s finest, earning nominations across various categories in the prestigious Africa Travel 100 Global Leaders Awards 2024.
These awards, which celebrate outstanding contributions to the continent’s tourism industry, will be presented at the Akwaaba African Travel Market, which will be held from September 22nd to 24th, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria.
Among the Gambians honored are Fatou Mas Jobe, former Minister of Tourism and Culture, and Malleh Sallah of Djelieba Group, both of whom have been shortlisted under the Hospitality category. Also featured are Sheikh Tejan Nyang, Head of the Institute of Travel and Tourism of The Gambia (ITTOG), and Dr. Adama Bah, the Board Chairman of ITTOG, nominated in the Leadership category. In addition, Abubacarr S. Camara, Director General of the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard), is listed under the Leadership category. Chief Adama Njie, Director of Tourism Promotion at GTBoard’s UK Office, has been nominated in the Marketing category. At the same time, Yunus S. Saliu, aTour, Travel, and Cultural Writer, will compete in the Media category.
“This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of these individuals to the growth and development of The Gambia’s tourism industry,” said Ambassador Ikechi Uko, founder of Akwaaba African Travel Market. “Their contributions have not only elevated The Gambia’s standing on the global tourism map but have also played a significant role in promoting West Africa as a whole.”
The Africa Travel 100 Global Leaders Awards, now a hallmark of the Akwaaba African Travel Market, honors individuals who have substantially contributed to tourism in their respective countries. The awards ceremony will be held on September 23rd, 2024, at the Eko Hotels Convention Center in Lagos, Nigeria.
In addition to Gambian leaders, the 2024 awards shortlist includes notable individuals from across Africa and the diaspora, representing countries such as Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Cote d’Ivoire, Benin, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Tanzania, South Africa, Togo, Uganda, Belize, the UK, and the USA. The event aims to foster connections and collaboration among leaders in the tourism industry across the continent and beyond.
“The Africa Travel 100 Global Leaders Awards are more than just an accolade—they are a testament to the resilience and innovation driving Africa’s tourism sector,” Uko added. “As we come together at Akwaaba, we celebrate these leaders who are paving the way for the future of travel and tourism in Africa.”
Since its inception in October 2005, the Akwaaba African Travel Market has grown into one of West Africa’s most significant tourism events. It draws participants from across the globe to Lagos, Nigeria, to engage in business and networking opportunities. The event showcases the best of what West Africa offers and serves as a vital platform for promoting the region as a top destination for private and public tourism enterprises.
