Cape Town, South Africa — In a landmark decision, Millat Group has been appointed to the Executive Committee of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). This historic move makes Millat Group the first South African private equity firm to join the Council’s highest leadership body, a platform that brings together the brightest leaders and decision-makers in global travel and tourism.
A New Era for Africa in Global Tourism
Millat Group’s appointment is more than a symbolic achievement. It represents a significant step forward for Africa, giving the continent a stronger presence in key global tourism discussions. Africa, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and rapidly growing hospitality sector, has long been recognized as a land of opportunity. However, its voice in shaping policies and strategies for the global industry has been limited — until now.
By joining WTTC’s leadership, Millat Group is ensuring that Africa will have greater representation in global conversations about tourism innovation, investment, sustainability, and economic growth.
Millat Group’s Journey of Innovation
Founded in 2016, Millat Group has become a leading force in African hospitality and private equity. In just a few years, the company has built a diverse portfolio that reflects ambition, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. One of its biggest milestones was reintroducing the prestigious Hyatt brand to South Africa, setting a new standard for world-class hospitality in the region.
Today, Millat Group stands as the largest owner of Hyatt-branded properties in Africa. Its portfolio includes standout locations such as Hyatt Regency Cape Town, Hyatt House Sandton, Hyatt House Rosebank, and the new Park Hyatt Johannesburg, a property that has already raised the bar for luxury experiences in South Africa. Beyond hospitality, the Group’s ventures span food, retail, and lifestyle sectors, further cementing its influence in the African market.
Driving Sustainability and Growth
Being part of the WTTC Executive Committee positions Millat Group to influence key decisions on global tourism priorities. Among the most pressing topics are sustainable tourism practices, innovation-driven growth, digital transformation, and strategies for investment in emerging markets.
Millat Group’s commitment to sustainability and community-focused hospitality aligns perfectly with WTTC’s mission to create a more inclusive and environmentally responsible tourism industry. By sharing its expertise, the Group aims to help drive more investment into Africa while championing projects that balance economic growth with ecological and social responsibility.
Amplifying Africa’s Tourism Potential
Africa is home to some of the world’s most unique destinations, yet challenges such as limited infrastructure, underinvestment, and low global visibility have slowed its full potential. Millat Group’s leadership role within the WTTC is expected to shine a spotlight on the opportunities the continent offers — from untapped natural wonders to dynamic urban centers ready for global travelers.
This appointment signals the beginning of a new chapter for African tourism, where African enterprises will have a stronger voice in shaping the future of the global travel economy. It also sets a precedent for other businesses from the region to step forward and contribute to international decision-making platforms.
A Collaborative Approach
The WTTC Executive Committee serves as the think tank and strategic driver of the global travel and tourism industry. With Millat Group now at the table, there will be greater collaboration between African markets and global leaders, fostering partnerships that are expected to benefit both the region and the wider industry.
Millat Group plans to leverage this platform to advocate for policies that encourage investment, improve infrastructure, and build sustainable systems that benefit local communities while enhancing the experience for international travelers.
Future of Tourism in Africa
The African tourism sector is on a strong growth trajectory, with projections showing significant increases in visitor arrivals, job creation, and overall economic impact in the coming decade. As global travel rebounds, there is renewed interest in Africa as both a leisure and business destination.
Millat Group’s participation in WTTC’s strategic planning will help position Africa as a leader in sustainable tourism, ensuring that growth is managed responsibly while delivering long-term benefits to communities and the environment. By combining innovation with a deep understanding of the region, the Group is well-placed to help shape policies that drive progress and profitability.
Looking Ahead
For Millat Group, joining the WTTC Executive Committee is more than a recognition of its achievements; it is a call to action. It represents a commitment to supporting the growth of Africa’s tourism industry and ensuring that the continent has an active role in shaping the future of global travel.
For WTTC, this partnership brings fresh perspectives from one of the fastest-growing regions in the world. It emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and diversity in driving forward-thinking solutions for the tourism industry as a whole.
As Africa continues to emerge as a key player in global tourism, initiatives like this will help unlock the continent’s full potential, ensuring that its unique offerings are matched with world-class safety, innovation, and service.
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