Lucy Macridis

🌍 Zanzibar's Tourism at a Glance - September 2024 🌍 In September, Zanzibar recorded 60,731 international visitors, marking a 12.8% increase from September 2023! 🌞 Here are some key insights from this month's tourism statistics: ✨ Visitor Demographics Europe dominated the market, representing 70.1% of all visitors, with Italy leading at 12.4% and Germany at 11.1%. Purpose of Visit: Nearly 98.8% of visitors came for holidays, highlighting Zanzibar's strong appeal as a leisure destination. 🏖️ Visitor Trends Average Length of Stay: Visitors stayed on average 8 nights. Bed Occupancy Rate: Reached 40.9%, with 318,390 beds sold out of a total of 779,216 available. 📊 Emerging Markets showed positive growth, with visitors from Poland and China seeing significant increases at 33.0% and 39.6%, respectively, compared to last year. With continued growth in visitor numbers, Zanzibar remains a top choice for international travelers. Let's keep driving forward to enhance this beautiful destination's appeal! 🌅 #Tourism #Zanzibar #TravelTrends #Hospitality #TourismStatistics #Zanzibar2024

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From drought to hope to #Gastronomy The drought in Zimbabwe not only affects agricultural yields but also the very foundation of our tourism industry, which thrives on vibrant culture and bountiful harvests. However, amidst these difficulties lies an opportunity to rediscover the resilience of our traditional small grains' sorghum, millet, and rapoko. These traditional grains boast an impressive ability to thrive in poor soils and resists drought. Gates (2024), these crops can help us #fightclimate change and #malnutrition . We can play a pivotal role in #zerohunger2030 and promoting #foodsecurity for all. By forging partnerships with local farmers who cultivate these drought-resistant grains, we can create a sustainable supply chain. Integrating small grains into our menus offers tourists #gastonomy a unique culinary experience while simultaneously supporting local communities. Together, we have the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. Zimbabwe Tourism Authority @Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife Zimbabwe SHE Changes Climate Climate Friendly Travel Services Africa Association of Hospitality Professionals

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A FORWARD STUMBLE TO 14 MILLION NEW JOBS IN AFRICA BY 2032 A stumble here, a mishap there—a dropped omelet, an unnoticed empty plate—these are the moments that test our resolve and define our dedication to excellence. "In 2024, the travel and tourism industry is on the rise after facing challenges. There’s a big anticipation of a 17.23% increase in International Tourist arrivals compared to 2023 according to WP Travel. Amidst this surge, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in the hospitality sector—a moment where every stumble forward propels us towards the grand vision of creating 14 million new jobs by 2032 in Africa." WTTC (EIR) reveals. We are convinced that despite that each stumble is not a setback but an opportunity. An opportunity to refine our skills, deepen our commitment, and embrace a long-term learning mindset. Consider this: The Travel & Tourism sector in Africa is poised for explosive growth, set to create a staggering 14 million new jobs in the next decade alone. This surge presents both challenges and opportunities for hospitality professionals. With the sector's annual GDP growth expected to outpace the overall economy, the demand for exceptional service will only intensify. Yet, amidst this whirlwind of opportunity, the probability of stumbling on our journey to mastery remains ever-present. It's in these unpredictable moments that we truly learn and grow. The goal must be achieved, and we can not blame it on a lack of passion or grit—rather, we can recognize that our energy aligns with our satisfaction in our profession. And if we find ourselves settling for less, let's heed Mandela's wisdom: "There is no passion to be found playing small." We can only stumble forward, never settling for less than the best we can deliver.

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As a travel specialist in Zanzibar, my passion for travel is rooted in the transformative power of exploring new destinations and immersing oneself in different cultures. For me, travel is not just about visiting new places, but about creating experiences that last a lifetime. Zanzibar, with its pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers a unique opportunity for travelers to escape the ordinary and discover something extraordinary. Every journey is an invitation to broaden horizons, connect with people from different walks of life, and embrace the unknown. It's about stepping outside your comfort zone, engaging with new environments, and allowing the world to open up in ways you never imagined. Zanzibar, with its fusion of African, Arab, and European influences, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, whether you're soaking up the sun on white sandy beaches, exploring historical sites like Stone Town, or indulging in the island's diverse flavors. As a travel specialist, my mission is to guide you through these experiences, helping you create memories that resonate long after your return. I believe travel isn't just about sightseeing, but about connecting with the essence of a place and its people. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, my goal is to curate an experience that reflects your passions and desires. Let travel be your gateway to personal growth and unforgettable experiences. The world is vast, and Zanzibar is waiting to reveal its secrets to you. Let's make your journey an unforgettable one. [email protected] +255718 021 298

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Kenya Utalii College graduates have captured the attention of global recruiters due to their exemplary performance. As a sign of confidence in the graduates of thr School, number of international hotels chains are having utalii graduates in their workforce. Global brands from Europe, United States of America, United Kingdom and Middle East have shown preference for utalii trained graduates. The latest recruiters to hire utalii graduates are cruise lines. This is a seal of approval in the quality of training offered by Kenya's Premier hospitality and tourism training institution. To ensure consustent quality training, closer working relationship between the School and cruise firms is critical. I do appeal for closer ties between the College and cruise companies in order to guarantee the industry quality manpower. I laud the college for the excellence in hospitality and tourism training. keep it up

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One of the main reasons for choosing this time of year to travel to Kenya was for the 16 days of activism against Gender-Based Violence. This is an annual international campaign that starts today on November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) and ends on December 10 (Human Rights Day). The 2024 theme for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is: “Every 11 minutes, a woman is killed. #NoExcuse. UNiTE to End Violence against Women.” This theme highlights the alarming statistic that, on average, a woman is killed by a partner or family member every 11 minutes. The campaign calls for collective action to end violence against women and girls, emphasising that there is no excuse for such violence. Additionally, the campaign aligns with the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 2025, urging recommitment, accountability, and resourcing to end violence against women and girls. The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign aligns closely with the mission and work of One Woman At A Time, as both aim to empower women and tackle systemic issues of gender inequality and violence. To mark the start of the 16 Days of Activism, we held a graduation ceremony for all the girls the One Woman At A Time charity has helped since its conception by Jean Anderson. We are lucky that the official colour for the 16 Days of Activism and our charity is orange and therefore all the girls wore orange. It was an incredibly moving and memorable sight as you can see from the video… #Legacy #OneWomanAtATime #NoExcuse #16DaysOfActivism #GBV #NoToGenderBasedViolence #FGM

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Harnessing Passion and Purpose in Hospitality Reflecting on my journey, especially the recent 3 months spent training new team members during the pre and soft opening phases of our new restaurant project - Kari-Beau - in Kigali, Rwanda, I’ve come to renew my conviction and strong belief of the true essence of what drives exceptional service in hospitality. It’s not just about the skills we hone or the strategies we implement; it’s about the passion and purpose that fuel our actions every single day. Peter Senge (a famous systems scientist and founder of the Society for Organizational Learning) sustains: “We tend to think that, in a traditional organization, people are producing results because management wants results, but the essence of a high-quality organization is people producing results because they want the results. It’s puzzling we find that hard to understand, that if people are really enjoying, they’ll innovate, they’ll take risks, they’ll have trust with one another because they are really committed to what they’re doing and it’s fun.” It is always profoundly heartwarming to witness firsthand how a genuine desire to serve and make a difference transforms ordinary tasks into extraordinary experiences. As mentors, leaders, and fellow professionals in this dynamic industry, let’s focus on igniting that intrinsic motivation within our teams. Let’s create environments where individuals are inspired to deliver excellence because they find joy and meaning in their roles. To all the young talents embarking on their hospitality careers, remember: it’s your passion that will set you apart. Embrace it, nurture it, and let it shine in everything you do. #Hospitality #CustomerService #Leadership #Motivation #TeamPerformance #Mentorship #Training #Mentorship #PassionForService #Kigali #Rwanda #ServiceExcellence #OperationalExcellence

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Being result-oriented as a leader is crucial but undermining trust and team cohesion to attain results is regrettable. #AnitaAnnan #leadership #coaching #customerservice #hospitality #tourism #travelandsee #Ghana

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As we continue to advance our #tourism and hospitality sector in #Ghana, a pressing issue remains: #salary #regulation within the #hotel #industry. It’s crucial that our hotel #association leaders, the tourism and hospitality #minister, and other #stakeholders address the disparity where expatriates often receive significantly higher salaries than their well-qualified local counterparts. This #imbalance not only undermines the value of local talent but also affects morale and productivity. I’ve personally experienced situations where expatriates with limited expertise were compensated substantially more than local employees with extensive experience and qualifications. It's time for a reevaluation of our salary structures to ensure fair compensation and to recognize the true value of our skilled local workforce. Let’s work together to create a more equitable and motivated industry.

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Opportunity

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I recently found some time to pen an article on "Resilience & Innovation in Tourism: My Thoughts on the Tourism Sector." This was featured in Business Daily Africa yesterday. Our tourism sector holds immense potential for growth, and there are several key opportunities, or "low-hanging fruits," that we can quickly tap into to achieve exponential growth in a short period. Here are three areas that I believe offer significant promise: 1. Accessibility: By opening up our airports, especially Moi International Airport in Mombasa and Malindi International Airport, we can enhance connectivity and attract more tourists to Kenya. 2. Adequate Funding for KTB: Providing sufficient funding for the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) will enable the adoption of aggressive digital marketing strategies and the pursuit of global marketing activities to promote Magical Kenya worldwide. 3. Creation of KNCB: Establishing the Kenya National Convention Bureau (KNCB) will help us reclaim our reputation for hosting international MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events, further positioning Kenya as a top destination for global events. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the article and your perspective on these three low-hanging fruits. Let's start a discussion! P.S - For a change, it would be great to hear perspectives from professionals in non-tourism sectors as well. After all, tourism growth creates ripple effects that impact the entire economy and every individual. Thank you to BUSINESS DAILY AFRICA for the full page article #HasnainNoorani #Kenya #Entrepreneur #Tourism

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👩‍🏫 Teaching has got to be one of the toughest and most underrated roles! ⚖️ While teaching may not come naturally, the joy of relaying my passion for exceptional service and customer satisfaction far outweighs any initial hesitations. 🇺🇬 In Uganda, where warmth and hospitality are deeply ingrained in our culture, our youth naturally embody the essence of customer care. 💪 As executives, it's our duty to nurture and guide these budding talents, sharing our knowledge and lessons learned along the way. ⚡️Protip: if you want to get better at something, teach it.

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How does hospitality impact problem resolution? Hospitality plays a vital role in problem resolution by cultivating a culture grounded in empathy, patience, and professionalism. As a General Manager at BON Hotels International West Africa, my expertise in Service Standards and Safety Management is pivotal for comprehending and addressing guest concerns effectively. Your proficiency in Hotel Management empowers you to train your team to manage guest complaints with empathy and professionalism, ensuring positive experiences even in demanding situations. #Hospitality #ProblemResolution #Empathy #Professionalism #HotelManagement #ServiceStandards #SafetyManagement

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Africa beckons with majestic wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. But where do you even begin? Here is a guide to nudge you in the right direction, turning the daunting safari planning into a walk in the park in 4 simple steps. https://lnkd.in/d86DEJgb

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The African hospitality industry is witnessing significant growth, with the African Hotel & Hospitality Confidence Index, indicating that 80% of operators are optimistic about future performance. Key trends driving this momentum include: - AI Integration: 25% of businesses are utilizing AI to enhance operations. - Sustainability Focus: Increasing emphasis on eco-friendly practices to attract conscious travelers. - Investment Surge: Major brands are expanding their footprint, with Africa projected to reach a market size of $731.4 billion by 2032. The upcoming Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa, taking place from June 11-13, 2024, will be a pivotal event for industry professionals to explore these trends and connect with global suppliers. For more detailed insights, check out the full article here: Hospitality in Africa is open for increased business https://lnkd.in/dZvp2Rh2 #Hospitality #Africa #Investment #Sustainability #Technology

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#Monday Motivation: Never Give Up 🌟 As we start a new week, remember: the journey to success is rarely smooth. Challenges and setbacks are part of the process, but they don’t define your ability to achieve your #dreams. 💪 Here’s why perseverance is key: 👇 ◾ Each challenge helps you grow stronger and wiser. ◾ Success often comes after many attempts. Keep pushing forward. ◾ Your determination is your greatest asset. ◾ Every step forward is a victory. Recognize and celebrate your progress. ◾ Your resilience can motivate those around you to keep going. So, embrace the week with determination and a #positivemindset. Your efforts will pay off. Let’s make it a great week Share your own stories of perseverance or #tag someone who needs a boost this Monday. 💬👇 #MondayMotivation #NeverGiveUp #Perseverance #KeepGoing #Inspiration #SuccessMindset VC: to the respected owner

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Dear GRC Leaders WE ARE OFFICIALLY 2 DAYS AWAY FROM THE 9TH ANNUAL GRC AFRICA at the NH COLLECTION IN SANDTON!!!!! At our core, we believe in nurturing a Good governance, Risk and compliance culture that resonates from the highest echelons of leadership to every corner of our organization. It's a holistic journey, driven by unwavering commitment, clear communication, and the constant reinforcement of assisting organizations uphold strong governance, risk and compliance values. 🎯 Join Us at the Premier GRC Conference of the Year! 🎯 Are you ready to elevate your organization’s Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) strategies? Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain cutting-edge insights and connect with industry leaders at the 9th Annual GRC Africa Conference, happening November 4-6 in Johannesburg! 🌍 🔍 Why Attend? Expert Sessions: Learn from top GRC experts who will share their knowledge on the latest trends and strategies in Governance , Risk and Compliance. Networking: Connect with GRC professionals from across the continent. Build relationships that will drive your business forward. Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on sessions that will equip you with the tools to implement AI in effective GRC frameworks within your organization. Real-World Case Studies: Discover how leading organizations have successfully integrated GRC into their operations and what you can learn from their journeys. 💡 Whether you’re a Chief Risk Officer, Compliance Officer, or part of the Governance team, this conference is your chance to stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving landscape. 📅 Dates: November 4-6 , 2024 📍 Location: Johannesburg, South Africa Seats are filling up quickly—don’t wait to secure your spot! Register today and be part of the conversation that’s shaping the future of GRC. 🔗Contact Yolanda @ 0214313002 to reserve and secure your seat. You do not want to miss this. See you there! Let’s come together to build stronger, more resilient organizations that are ready to face the challenges of tomorrow. hashtag #GRC #Governance #RiskManagement #Compliance #Leadership #Networking #GRCConference #BusinessExcellence #Governance #Risk #compliance #Audit #2024 #marcusevans #GRC #Internalcontrol #datasecurity #informationsecurity #assurance #chiefriskofficer #Internalaudit #Chiefofcompliance #headofrisk

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