Welcome to the MICE Africa daily read for MICE Professionals doing business in Africa.
In today’s topics;
- Seychelles tourism veteran joins Pan-African economic forum in Tunisia
- Katsina State to build Africa’s first Equestrian City for culture and events
- Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort offers a tranquil, heritage-rich venue for immersive gatherings
Seychelles Tourism Minister Joins Pan-African Economic Development Forum
A recent high-level forum in Tunisia brought together some of Africa’s most dynamic minds to reimagine economic growth across the continent, with a clear emphasis on private sector leadership.
Among those contributing to this vision was Alain St.Ange, former Seychelles Tourism Minister, who joined discussions alongside Mohamed Ayachi Ajroudi, a major figure in pan-African development. The event wasn’t about speeches; it was about viable strategies and shared ambition, focused on sectors poised for real impact — ICT, renewable energy, construction, entertainment, and tourism.
Notably, the development of film production studios emerged as a key point, signaling an interest not only in diversifying economies but also in shaping Africa’s narrative globally. The forum also welcomed virtual input from international heavyweights like Dominique Strauss-Kahn and Christian Mantei, giving the dialogue both depth and perspective.
This gathering underscored a shift in economic thinking — away from reliance on state mechanisms toward collaborative, cross-border action driven by private players. It’s a signal that Africa’s economic vision is expanding, and it’s calling on inclusive innovation to fuel its next chapter.
Africa’s First Equestrian City: Boosting Tourism & Jobs in Katsina
Katsina State in northern Nigeria is laying the foundation for Africa’s first Equestrian City, a cultural and economic development with the potential to shift the tourism and event landscape in the region. Spearheaded by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and backed by top federal officials, the project is a deliberate move to position Katsina as a hub for equestrian sport, heritage, and creative tourism.
At the heart of the plan is a suite of facilities that blend athleticism and culture. These include a National Grand Durbar arena, horse racing tracks, a Polo Club, a high-level Equestrian Academy, and the continent’s first International Mounted Games Headquarters. The city also aims to charm with Contemporary Art Villas and Duplexes that reflect Arewa design aesthetics, offering planners and visitors a distinctive backdrop for events and retreats.
Dr. Kabir Ali Masanawa, a key player in the project, emphasized the expected employment boom—thousands of jobs in construction, operational management, and tourism support services. Beyond job creation, the initiative seeks to reposition Katsina as a continental destination for equestrian lovers and cultural tourism, drawing international attention to an area rich in heritage.
The Equestrian City represents a new frontier in MICE opportunities for West Africa. Its blend of cultural vibrancy, sporting excellence, and architectural uniqueness makes it a compelling location for conferences, incentive travel, and experiential events. For organizers tracking fresh, meaningful venues across Africa, Katsina’s bold project is one to watch closely.
Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort: Luxury, History & Nature in Nigeria
If you’re scouting for a venue that blends function with soul, the Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort in Nigeria quietly makes its case. Tucked into 174 hectares of lush terrain, this resort offers a rare trifecta—refined comfort, historical depth, and untouched natural beauty—all under one roof.
With 163 well-appointed rooms and a fully equipped conference center, it’s tailored for events that need both scale and style. The resort’s 18-hole golf course keeps enthusiasts challenged, while delivering serene views that feel more retreat than resort. Beyond business, there’s a story here—embedded in the old boat used to capture King Jaja of Opobo in 1810, a striking piece of history resting on the grounds.
Nature is more than background ambiance at Ibom. The adjacent primary forest offers rare birdwatching opportunities, while the nearby river gives guests fast-track access to Calabar in 45 minutes or even Cameroon in under an hour. Whether guests stay put or explore afar, the setting remains immersive and richly African.
Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort doesn’t aim to shout its promise—it shows it, quietly and confidently. It’s less about just hosting events, and more about creating a textured experience where people walk away with more than handshakes and business cards.
That’s it for today.