Hilton commits US$50mn to Africa Growth Initiative

Hilton has committed US$50mn over the next five years towards the ‘Hilton Africa Growth Initiative’ as the company looks to dramatically expand its footprint in Africa.

These funds hope to support the conversion of around 100 hotels in multiple African markets as the hotel giant attempts to expand its Sub-Saharan African portfolio.

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These hotels, which account for about 20,000 rooms, will be transformed into Hilton branded hotels, specifically Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton and Curio Collection by Hilton properties.

"Hilton remains committed to growth in Africa having been present on the continent for more than 50 years. The model of converting existing hotels into Hilton branded properties has proved highly successful in a variety of markets and we expect to see great opportunities to convert hotels to Hilton brands through this initiative,” said Patrick Fitzgibbon, Senior Vice President of Development for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Hilton.

"It enables us to rapidly grow our portfolio and delivers returns for owners by increasing exposure of their business to more international, inter-regional and domestic travellers, and specifically to our 65 million-plus Hilton Honors members, who look to stay with us in our suite of industry-leading brands.

“We see huge potential here in key cities and airports, as well as allowing us to develop our offering in resorts and safari lodges,” he added.

The hotel giant has already signed two hotels as part of the bold initiative including its first DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Kenya and its first hotel in Rwanda.

Last year, the company also revealed plans for the tallest hotel on the continently with the 43-story Hilton Nairobi Upper Hill, which is aiming to open for 2020.

Hilton’s main competitor, Marriott International, has also outlined expansion efforts in Africa, announcing seven new hotel signings in Africa this week.