The VIP reception was hosted at Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar, which opened in January 2026 on Zanzibar’s south-east coast.
Among the winners, Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club was named “Africa’s Leading Hotel”, while Zanzibar received the titles of “Africa’s Leading Beach Destination” and “Africa’s Leading Festival & Event Destination”.
Tanzania was named “Africa’s Leading Destination” and also received the “Africa’s Leading Tourist Board” title. Serengeti National Park won “Africa’s Leading National Park” and “Africa’s Leading Big 5 National Park”, while Kilimanjaro National Park was named “Africa’s Leading Mountain National Park”.
Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar received the titles of “Africa’s Leading New Resort” and “Zanzibar’s Leading Villa Resort”.
Graham Cooke, Founder, World Travel Awards, said: “It has been a privilege to welcome our winners from across Africa to this extraordinary celebration in Zanzibar. Diamonds Bijoux provided a spectacular setting for an unforgettable evening, reflecting the elegance, warmth and vibrant spirit that make Zanzibar such a compelling destination. Our winners represent the very best of the travel and tourism sector, and we congratulate them on their achievements in helping to shape its future.”
The President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, H.E. Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has continued to identify tourism as one of Zanzibar’s key economic sectors, citing its contribution to economic growth, employment, investment and international visibility. He said: “This prestigious occasion reflects the growing stature of Zanzibar as one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations celebrated for its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, fascinating history, warm hospitality and the dedication of its people.”
Gianni Mannai, General Manager, Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar, said: “Hosting the World Travel Awards Africa Gala Ceremony 2026 has been a proud and defining moment for Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar. This prestigious occasion has provided an exceptional platform to showcase the beauty, warmth and distinctive hospitality of Zanzibar to travel industry leaders from across Africa and beyond. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all this year’s winners on their outstanding achievements.”
In the aviation sector, Kenya Airways received “Africa’s Leading Airline” and “Africa’s Leading Airline – Economy Class”. Ethiopian Airlines was named “Africa’s Leading Airline – Business Class”, while RwandAir received the “Africa’s Leading Cabin Crew” award.
Julius Nyerere International Airport in Tanzania was named “Africa’s Leading Airport”.
Zanzibar Commission for Tourism received the “Africa’s Leading Regional Tourist Board” title, while Port of Cape Town was named “Africa’s Leading Cruise Port”. Durban ICC received the award for “Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre”.
In the luxury hospitality categories, Chem Chem Lodge was named “Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Lodge”, while Fraser Suites Abuja received “Africa’s Leading Serviced Apartments’.
LUX* Marijani was named “Africa’s Leading Green Hotel”, while The Mora Zanzibar received the title of ‘Africa’s Most Romantic Resort”.
Villa Thandawena @ Thanda Safari was named “South Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Villa”.
The Zanzibar ceremony marked the opening stage of the World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2026, a series of regional ceremonies scheduled across several destinations during the year. The 2026 programme also includes ceremonies in the Maldives, Jamaica, Montenegro and the United Arab Emirates, before concluding with the Grand Final in Tanzania.
Tags: Graham Cooke, World Travel Awards Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi Zanzibar
