The VA TourismPodcast

Inside Namibia’s Tourism Surge: CEO Chicalu Zebulon on Strategy, Growth, and Global Visibility

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Chicalu Zebulon, CEO of the Namibia Tourism Board, as he reflects on what he calls a strong second half for Namibia’s tourism sector. He walks us through the major drivers behind this momentum—from improved airlift into the country, to growing public–private partnerships, and increased visibility in both key and emerging source markets, all of which are already creating real value for industry partners. Chicalu also shares the core priorities shaping their five-year strategy, including deeper engagement with stakeholders, stronger data and statistics, boosting global visibility, capacity building, and a commitment to inclusive tourism.
 

Botswana strengthens sustainable tourism path with revised regulations and MICE Focus

In today’s episode, the CEO of the Botswana Tourism Organization, Keitumetse Setlang, offers insight into the country’s updated tourism regulations designed to meet the evolving needs of the sector. She highlights Botswana’s renewed tourism appeal and delves into the nation’s MICE strategy, which she describes as a key driver in advancing the tourism industry. Botswana is also preparing to host the continent’s leading aviation event, AviaDev, from 10–12 June 2026.
 

Zambia’s Tourism Boss on smarter growth, stronger partnerships, and Sustainability that works

Today’s conversation was recorded on-site at the 2025 General Assembly of Airlinepros International in Cape Town, South Africa. I’m joined by the CEO of the Zambia Tourism Agency, Matongo Matamwandi, who shares why aviation and tourism are natural partners—and how platforms like this one are essential for strengthening public–private collaboration to deliver exceptional travel experiences and build a thriving ecosystem.
He also offers a refreshingly unconventional perspective on sustainability and provides an in-depth reflection on Zambia’s tourism performance over the past year.
 

Uganda’s Tourism Moment Is Now and Juliana Kagwa Is Leading the Charge

In today’s episode recorded at last week’s IBTM World, the flagship global meetings and events showcase in Barcelona, newly appointed CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Juliana Kagwa says the stars are finally aligning for Uganda’s tourism industry – and she is determined to ride the momentum with a reinvigorated strategy, bold targets and a fresh spirit of public–private partnership.
 

Kenya's Tribe Collection eyes West Africa as it accelerates Regional growth

In this conversation, I sit with Eva Mwangi, the dynamic Head of Sales and Marketing at Tribe Collection, one of Kenya’s most respected home-grown hospitality groups.Eva offers a thoughtful look into Tribe’s evolution as a leading boutique brand, its commitment to art, community engagement, and cultural immersion, as well as its strategic vision for the growing West African travel market.Join me as i explore how Tribe Collection is redefining urban hospitality in Nairobi and setting new benchmarks for authentic guest experiences across Kenya’s most vibrant destinations.
Eva Mwangi is the driving force behind the Sales and Marketing efforts for Tribe Hotels Group. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, she began her career in the UK at just 22 years old. Eva has excelled in various roles, including receptionist, reservations, and meetings and events management. However, her most significant contributions have come through her extensive work in sales and marketing with renowned brands like Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, and IHG's head office in Denham, UK.
Her unwavering dedication to creating unique guest experiences has been pivotal in shaping the hotels' offerings and enhancing customer satisfaction. Eva's innovative strategies and deep understanding of market trends have not only driven revenue growth but also established Tribe Hotels as a leader in the industry. Through her leadership, she continues to inspire her team to deliver exceptional service and memorable stays for every guest.
 
 

Unpacking North America as a Key Source Market for African Destinations

In this episode, we explore the dynamics of the North American market as a key source region for African tourism—and what destination managers need to understand to engage it effectively. My guests, Jane Behrend and David DiGregorio, partners at Rethink Travel Marketing and North American facilitators for the Africa Showcase platform, break down current trends shaping traveler behavior in this influential market. They share why North America holds compelling, potential for African destinations, while also highlighting how platforms like Africa Showcase create valuable opportunities for improved marketing, distribution, and visitor facilitation.
 

Seychelles’ New Tourism & Culture Minister Amanda Bernstein outlines vision for Authentic, Sustainable Growth

In this episode, recorded at the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, I chat with Amanda Bernstein, Seychelles’ new Minister for Tourism and Culture—who stepped onto the global stage barely a week after taking office. She talks about her excitement, her vision for Seychelles’ tourism, and the key role culture and sustainability will play in her plans. 
In this dialogue, Minister Bernstein discusses the government’s renewed focus on cultural authenticity, women’s leadership, and youth empowerment within the sector, while outlining her commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and long-term resilience.
 

How Seychelles Is Redefining Hospitality: Paul Lebon on “Lospitalite Sesel”

In this episode, recorded on August 24 during VoyagesAfriq’s coverage of the Seychelles Nature Trail, Mr. Paul Lebon, Director General for Destination Planning and Development at Tourism Seychelles, shares in-depth insights on Lospitalite Sesel. He discusses how the initiative has revitalized service excellence across the tourism sector and the importance of preparing the destination to deliver the warm hospitality the islands are renowned for. Mr. Lebon explains that the program aims to strengthen Seychelles’ tourism competitiveness and further position the islands as a leading travel destination.