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Are you gearing up for a hotel management career in Africa? Then I have a great news for you as experts predict that Africa is set to dominate the global hotel sector. Similar to what happened in the Middle East for many years, leading hotel groups will soon fight for their market share in Sub-Saharan Africa. So if you want to build career in hotel management in Africa, then this is precisely the right time. Read on….
Africa Is An Emerging Market
Marriott has already created a buzz in Sub-Saharan Africa last year with the acquisition of the 116-hotel group Protea, which is present across 7 African countries, for $200 million. Michael Wale, head of Europe, Africa and Middle East at Starwood, says,
“Honestly, I think Africa is the next big thing.” However, he thinks it will take a significant amount of time, adding “I’m absolutely clear it won’t be easy and won’t be done in the short term.”
There is no doubt that Africa is one of the most popular destinations among global tourists, especially the game reserves, which resulted in the establishment of safari resorts. International tourists crossed the 50 million mark in 2012 for the first time, which generated around $33 billion in revenues, as per the UN World Tourism Organisation. It predicts that the international arrivals will reach almost 85 million by 2020.
Growth In Domestic Travelers
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However, the leading international hotel groups are not excited by the international travelers. Alex Kyriakidis, Head of Marriott’s Africa and the Middle East business, says that now “the big prize is domestic and regional business” tourists and travelers. The increase in business travelers moving between Luanda, Johannesburg, Nairobi, Lagos and other commercial capitals in Africa reveals the recent substantial economic development and political stability. Banker Rick Menell at Credit Suisse in Johannesburg, claims that now all the new African commuters are facing a shortage of accommodations. He says “The hospitality market has great potential because [until now] is under served.”
Setting Priorities
To meet the growing demand and to take advantage of the expanding market, African hotel industry leaders are now taking the right steps to lead the sector forward. Recently, leaders of the hotel sector assembled to review hotel development in Africa at the Africa Hotel Investment Forum. Several leading hotel investors, senior executives from global hotel chains, industry experts and advisors participated in the meeting. The event finalised on a list of 10 priorities to support the industry growth.
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Some of the recommendations include-
- Making long term plans
- Investing in infrastructure
- Attracting finance from abroad
- Accelerating the growth process
- Opening air routes
- Including local players
- Promoting stable politics
But How Will This Expansion Help You your career?
The simple fact is as the industry grows it will create more jobs in the market. If you have the right skills and knowledge, then you will get loads of career opportunities at leading global hotel chains with high pay. But as employers are currently facing a skills shortage in the hotel and hospitality industry, it has become imperative that aspiring professionals pursue recognised hotel management courses and earn accredited degrees that will add value to their CV and boost their employability.
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However, if you are already working or if you do not wish to drown yourself in a heavy student debt, then studying a traditional hotel management course might not be feasible for you. In this case, I would suggest that you find an accredited hotel management degree course online. The fact is online hotel management courses are more beneficial and effective for you. Not only you will be able to save money as online programmes are highly affordable, you will also have the opportunity to do your day job while you earn your degree. As online courses offer excellent accessibility, flexibility and affordability, you will get the opportunity to earn a degree and gain relevant experience at the same time.
If you are looking forward to start a lucrative career in the expanding sector in Africa, then an online hotel management degree will help you get closer to your long term career goals. You can study what you need to in a way that is convenient for you. It’s time to get started.
How will you make the most of this opportunity? Share your thought, opinions and experiences with us by leaving your comments below.
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