The Bench has announced the rebranding of the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF) as “Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa)”. This change integrates AHIF into the wider “Future Hospitality Summit (FHS)” portfolio, which includes “FHS Saudi Arabia” and “FHS World”. The decision aligns Africa’s premier hospitality investment event with a broader network covering the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.
Industry perspectives on the rebrand
“This transformation marks a pivotal moment for The Bench and the African hospitality sector,” said “Matthew Weihs, Managing Director of The Bench”. “With Africa’s investment potential gaining global attention, FHS Africa will provide a focused, high-impact platform, while FHS World ensures that African markets are showcased on the biggest investment stage. The synergy between these events will accelerate deal-making, policy engagement, and long-term industry growth.”
“With the launch of FHS Africa in 2025, The Bench is reaffirming its commitment to shaping Africa’s hospitality future through knowledge-sharing, investment facilitation, and strategic partnerships. As the industry continues to evolve, this rebranding ensures that stakeholders receive a more structured, globally integrated experience—designed to unlock Africa’s full potential as the next major frontier for hospitality investment,” he added.
Read also: Nigerian stocks end January strong with N1.7 tn market capitalisation growth
AHIF’s role in Africa’s hospitality investment landscape
For over a decade, AHIF has played a key role in shaping Africa’s hospitality sector. The event has brought together investors, government officials, and hotel developers to facilitate discussions on investment opportunities, government policies, and infrastructure development. The platform has driven billions of dollars in investments, strengthened partnerships, and created opportunities for growth in the hospitality industry across Africa.
Investment growth and market expansion
The demand for hospitality investment in Africa continues to rise. Over 300,000 new hotel rooms, or ‘keys’, are expected by 2030. Cities including Nairobi, Casablanca, Cape Town, and Addis Ababa are leading this growth. Nairobi’s “Average Daily Rate (ADR)” has increased by “164%” and Casablanca’s ADR has risen by “141%” compared to 2019.
Africa’s post-pandemic recovery has exceeded expectations, with demand surpassing 2019 levels for nine consecutive months. International arrivals are projected to grow between “6-7% annually”, positioning Africa as an attractive hospitality investment destination. The impact of AHIF was evident in 2024, when deals worth over “$365 million” were signed.
Future hospitality summit Africa 2025
The newly branded FHS Africa will take place from 17–19 June 2025 in Cape Town, providing a platform for investors, developers, and industry leaders to explore key opportunities and challenges in the sector.
Key themes for FHS Africa 2025 include financing models, focusing on strategies for structuring investments in emerging markets, and sustainable investment & ESG, examining the profitability of environmental and social governance initiatives.
The event will also highlight cross-border collaboration, addressing policies and infrastructure to support intra-African trade and tourism, as well as branded residences & mixed-use developments, analysing the rise of alternative asset classes in hospitality. Additionally, discussions will centre on technology & innovation, exploring the role of AI, blockchain, and digital transformation in the industry.
Integration with FHS world
As “FHS Africa” becomes part of the “FHS” ecosystem, African stakeholders will gain access to increased exposure at “FHS World”—the largest hospitality investment gathering in the region. This integration is expected to attract more international investment and expertise, positioning African markets within a broader investment framework.
Dubai, which serves as The Bench’s operational headquarters, plays a key role in facilitating investment into Africa. With over 50 daily flights to major African destinations, Dubai enhances accessibility for investors and business leaders.
