ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA 
At the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF) 2024, scheduled to hold at the Mövenpick Ho- tel, Windhoek, Namibia, between June 25 and 27, 2024, two Africa’s hospi- tality giants will be hon- oured for their various contributions to the development of the hospitality industry in Africa.
The duo are; Alain Sebah, President, Golden Tulip Afrique Francophone and East Africa (GTAF), and Dupe Olusola, Managing Director and Chief Ex- ecutive Officer, Transcorp Hotels Plc. Sebah will receive the Outstanding Contribution Award while Olusola will be bestowed with the Leadership Award. Sebah founded GTAF a decade ago, since then he has opened 11 hotels and has five under construction. He has been responsible for growing the brand in both French and English-speaking Africa, focusing on management and franchise agreements.
In doing so, he has overcome numerous challenges, including industry scepticism. He has demonstrated resilience and strategic vision; delivered exceptional guest experiences, advanced career opportunities for employees and won the confidence of investors. Olusola on her part, became Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Hotels Plc during the COVID-19 pandemic when occupancy fell to just 5%. She led the company back to profitability faster than most of the world’s hospitality companies, with the share price growing over 600% in 2023.
Under her leadership, the company has extended its offer and won over 40 awards. She also won several personal awards, including CEO of the Year. Transcorp Hilton Abuja, an award-winning business hotel and the company’s flagship property, has introduced leisure offerings, finding the perfect blend of business and leisure. Elated by the award, Olusola noted: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Leader- ship Award at AHIF. This recognition is a testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of the entire Transcorp Hotels team.
‘‘Together, we have navigated challenging times and emerged stronger, continually pushing the boundaries of excellence in hospitality. I am proud of what we have achieved and excited about the future as we continue to innovate, expand and deliver outstanding experiences for our guests.” While Sebah said of the award: “I am deeply grateful to AHIF for this recognition. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of many individuals. Together, we have built a legacy of quality and service, of which I am immensely proud; and this award motivates us to achieve even greater heights.” AHIF is the most influential gathering of hospitality executives in Africa, connecting business leaders and fuelling investment in tourism projects, infrastruc- ture, and hotel development across the continent.
