Topic · Baobab Pulse
Travel
Destinations, tourism, and moving across Africa.
🇩🇿Algérie360·12 hours ago
Algeria ranks higher than France in Global Peace Index 2026
The Global Peace Index GPI 2026, published by the Institute for Economics & Peace, reveals that global peace has declined for the 12th consecutive year. The report, based on 23 indicators including crime levels, internal conflicts, political stability, and militarization, shows a record number of active wars since 1945. Iceland maintains its position as the safest country for the 19th year, followed by New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia, and Ireland. Countries like Sudan, DR Congo, and Ukraine are at the bottom of the ranking, with Myanmar being the most critical in the Asia-Pacific region and Russia at the global bottom. Algeria is ranked 91st globally with a score of 2053 points, a slight drop of five positions from the previous edition. In the MENA region, Algeria is 8th, following Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman, and close behind Morocco, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Tunisia. Notably, Algeria surpasses France in the ranking, with France at a concerning 99th place among 163 nations.
3 min read
🇲🇦Le Matin·13 hours ago
Royal Air Maroc to offer record 8.2 million seats this summer
Royal Air Maroc will deploy nearly 8.2 million seats during summer 2026, marking a 23% increase year-on-year. The national airline will connect Morocco to 86 international destinations using a modernized fleet of 67 aircraft.
5 min read
🇲🇦Le Matin·15 hours ago
Morocco joins Mastercard's Priceless experiences platform, expanding unique African travel opportunities
Mastercard has launched Priceless Africa, a platform that allows cardholders to access unique travel experiences across the continent, with Morocco now included. These experiences are categorized by passion points such as culture, gastronomy, nature, wildlife, and adventure, enabling travelers to explore their interests safely and easily. Mastercard also offers travel benefits including hotel and flight discounts, airport lounge access, and seamless booking on major travel platforms, car rentals, and e-hailing services. This initiative comes as African tourism experiences significant growth, with the continent welcoming 81 million international tourists in 2025, an 8% increase from the previous year, according to UN Tourism. Ahmed Abdel-Karim Hussein, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa EEMEA region at Mastercard, stated that Priceless Africa aims to connect people with their passions and the extraordinary spirit of the African continent through authentic and unforgettable experiences, supported by secure and seamless Mastercard payment options. Examples of available experiences include a hot air balloon safari in Amboseli National Park, a candlelit ceremony at Cape Coast Castle, gorilla trekking in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, and a Bedouin dinner in Morocco's Agafay stone desert. The platform also features adventures like climbing Le Morne Brabant in Mauritius, a dhow trip in Zanzibar, rhino tracking
3 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·19 hours ago
Ashton Hall names Nigeria as favorite African destination, calls Lagos "African Miami
American fitness influencer Ashton Hall has identified Nigeria as his favorite African destination following a recent tour of the continent. He remarked that Lagos reminded him of "an African version of Miami." Hall shared these comments during an interview on his Kick account after concluding his multi-country African tour. He praised Nigeria's vibrant culture, hospitality, and cuisine, stating that the country made the strongest impression on him among all the African nations he visited. While he described Nigeria as an incredible place to visit, Hall indicated he would prefer to return occasionally rather than relocate permanently. His visit to Nigeria generated significant social media excitement, with fans, celebrities, and content creators welcoming him. During his stay in Lagos, he met music executive Don Jazzy and collaborated with Nigerian streamers and digital creators, attracting millions of views. Hall's continental tour also included South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ghana. Throughout the trip, he shared videos showcasing local cuisines, tourist attractions, fitness activities, and cultural experiences, which garnered significant online engagement. Hall gained prominence through his fitness and motivational content on social media, documenting his disciplined lifestyle and workout routines. His trademark videos, featuring structured morning routines and motivational narration, became viral sensations, earning him millions of followers. His popularity inc
2 min read
🇲🇦Le Matin·21 hours ago
Royal Air Maroc boosts summer 2026 flight offerings to 86 destinations
Royal Air Maroc has announced an exceptional program for the summer 2026 season, featuring a record offering of nearly 8.2 million seats, a 23% increase compared to summer 2025. This expansion will connect Morocco to 86 international destinations across Europe, Africa, the Americas, Asia, and the Middle East, utilizing a modernized fleet of 67 aircraft. The increased capacity aims to support Moroccans residing abroad during the summer, enhance the Kingdom's connectivity, and meet demand from African diasporas and international tourists. The airline will serve 44 European destinations, 29 African destinations, seven in the Americas United States, Canada, and Brazil, and six in Asia and the Middle East. Europe will see over 3 million seats +22%, Africa over 1.8 million seats +36%, Asia and the Middle East over 524,000 seats +16%, and the Americas 723,000 seats +7%. Domestic routes will also increase by 18% with nearly 1.2 million seats. The company will maintain its "Europe by night - Africa by day" hub structure in Casablanca to improve connections and reduce wait times. For the first time, Royal Air Maroc will operate its entire summer program using only its own aircraft, without chartered planes. Hamid Addou, CEO of Royal Air Maroc, stated that this initiative is a major step in the company's development, reinforcing RAM's role as a strategic hub for Moroccan mobility and international influence. Flights for the summer season are already available for booking.
3 min read
🇩🇿Algérie360·2 days ago
Air Algérie receives first Boeing 737 MAX 8, expands fleet and services
Air Algérie has marked a significant step in its transformation with three major developments overseen by the Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transport. The airline received its first Boeing 737 MAX 8, named "El Hourria," initiating an acquisition program for ten such aircraft. These deliveries, scheduled between 2026 and 2027, aim to enhance the airline's medium-haul operational capacity and meet international air transport standards. The 737 MAX 8, known for its optimized fuel consumption and extended range, is part of a broader plan to acquire 18 aircraft, positioning Algiers as an air hub between Africa and Europe. Simultaneously, Air Algérie received its first ATR 72-600, named "Tassili," for its domestic subsidiary, Domestic Airlines. This is the first of 16 such aircraft designed for regional flights, intended to improve frequency and reliability on domestic routes, particularly connecting southern, high plateau, and isolated regions. This investment seeks to reduce mobility disparities and offer a credible air alternative to populations far from major roads. Two new domestic routes, from Algiers to Timimoun and El Oued, were launched on May 24, 2026. Additionally, an industrial catering unit, "Air Taste Factory," was inaugurated. This 14,250-square-meter facility can produce up to 40,000 meals daily for Air Algérie flights, addressing a previously undersized link in the service chain and enhancing passenger experience. These initiatives are part of a wide
4 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 days ago
Port Harcourt International Airport receives global certification after 40 years of operation
The Port Harcourt International Airport has achieved full certification and a license, complying with global safety standards from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the International Civil Aviation Organisation. This certification follows recent upgrades, modernization, expansion of infrastructure, and the provision of critical safety equipment at the airport. Mrs. Lynda Ezike, Regional General Manager, South-South Airports, and Manager, Port Harcourt International Airport, announced this during a visit to the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to present the certificate. Ezike acknowledged the Rivers State Government's contributions to the airport's upgrade, stating it now meets local and international safety requirements. She highlighted that the certification positions the airport for increased international operations, assuring safety for incoming flights and reflecting Governor Fubara's support in infrastructure and equipment provision. Ezike added that this achievement signifies Nigeria's role as a key player in global aviation safety.
1 min read
🇿🇼NewsDay Zimbabwe·3 days ago
Zimbabwe pushes to join Africa's Open Skies initiative to unlock tourism potential
Zimbabwe is actively pursuing membership in Africa's Open Skies initiative, aiming to enhance its tourism sector. This move is part of a broader effort to boost the country's economic prospects. Other recent developments in Zimbabwe include plans to translocate zebras, giraffes, and hyenas to Equatorial Guinea, a marginal decrease in fuel prices, and the Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange ZMX reporting rising confidence with trades reaching US$1.28 million. Additionally, US-based BlackRock has increased its interest in Caledonia Mining, notifying the company of crossing a reporting threshold. The country also commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to improve export competitiveness.
1 min read
🇿🇼NewsDay Zimbabwe·4 days ago
Air Zimbabwe to resume Harare-London flights this month
Air Zimbabwe is set to resume its flights between Harare and London this month. This development comes amidst other news from Zimbabwe, including BlackRock scaling up its interest in Caledonia Mining, and the commissioning of a specialized honey testing laboratory aimed at boosting export competitiveness. Additionally, a Zimbabwean reality show has gained regional backing and is looking towards a global presence.
1 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 days ago
FAAN Managing Director discusses airport challenges, clarifies role in flight delays, and outlines strategies for improvement
Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria FAAN, addressed the challenges facing Nigeria's airports, emphasizing that these issues are fundamental rather than gender-related, despite her being the first female to hold the position. She identified a threefold problem: infrastructure deficits impacting passenger experience, challenges within the entire airport ecosystem affecting operators like airlines and handling companies, and human capital deficiencies and workflow management issues among FAAN staff. Kuku explained that FAAN's role is to manage and operate federal government-owned airports and provide statutory services like fire and rescue, and aviation security. She clarified that while FAAN is visible to passengers, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority NCAA is the primary regulator for the aviation industry, including flight delays and cancellations. FAAN's responsibility in this regard is to communicate delays through its infrastructure, based on information provided by airlines. To address touting, FAAN launched "Operation Air Clean," penalizing individuals and their affiliated organizations, and implementing access control and surveillance. Kuku urged Nigerians not to engage with unauthorized individuals at airports. She also highlighted the opportunities for Nigeria through her role as ACI Africa Vice President, including access to data, advocacy with ICAO, and leveraging airport service quality assessments to improve infrastr
9 min read
Must Read🇲🇦Le Matin·5 Jul 2026
Royal Air Maroc organizes 12 special flights to Boston for Atlas Lions World Cup quarter-final match
Royal Air Maroc has announced 12 special direct flights from Casablanca to Boston to transport Moroccan supporters for the Atlas Lions' historic 2026 World Cup quarter-final match on July 9. Following Morocco's qualification, the national airline is deploying wide-body aircraft with a total capacity of 3,600 seats to meet anticipated high demand. To make travel more accessible, Royal Air Maroc has set a fixed round-trip economy class fare of 10,000 dirhams. These tickets are non-modifiable and non-refundable. As the official carrier for the national team, Royal Air Maroc mobilized its resources immediately after the qualification to support Moroccan fans throughout the tournament. Tickets will be available for purchase starting at 9:30 PM at Royal Air Maroc commercial agencies in Morocco and on the company's dedicated online platform. This initiative aims to enable thousands of supporters to travel to Boston and cheer on the Atlas Lions as they seek a historic first-time qualification for the World Cup semi-finals.
1 min read
🇱🇾Libya Herald·3 Jul 2026
MedSky to launch direct flights from Benghazi to Dusseldorf in August
MedSky will introduce direct flights from Benghazi's Benina Airport to Dusseldorf, Germany, starting August 4. This new service marks the first direct air connection between Benghazi and Germany. According to MedSky's Executive Director Siraj Al-Fitouri, this step is a milestone for Libyan civil aviation, aiming to position Libya as a gateway connecting Europe to Africa and a regional air traffic hub. MedSky plans to expand its direct European flight routes from various Libyan airports. The airline previously launched a direct flight service from Tripoli to Dusseldorf on May 17 and currently operates European flights to Athens, Malta, Rome, Milano, and Madrid.
4 min read
🇱🇾Libya Herald·1 Jul 2026
Pegasus Airlines delegation visits Mitiga Airport to discuss new Turkey-Tripoli route
A delegation from Pegasus Airlines visited Mitiga International Airport to discuss plans for a new air route connecting Turkey and Tripoli via Mitiga Airport. The privately-owned budget carrier, based in Istanbul, currently serves Morocco and Egypt in North Africa. The visit aims to strengthen air transport cooperation and develop travel between Libya and Turkey. The delegation was received by Mitiga International Airport's Director General, Lutfi Nashnoush, Director of Operations and Safety, Jamal Dahim, and Director of the Security Office, Fadel Aoun, along with members from the airport's Operations and Safety Authority and the Civil Aviation Authority. This initiative seeks to support air transport, enhance ties between the two countries, improve passenger services, and open new cooperation opportunities with international airlines. Attendees highlighted the importance of this step in bolstering Mitiga International Airport's position and expanding its international flight network, benefiting travel, trade, and tourism between Libya and Turkey.
1 min read
🇲🇦Le Matin·1 Jul 2026
Royal Air Maroc launches 12 special flights to Houston for Atlas Lions supporters
Royal Air Maroc RAM has announced 12 special flights from Casablanca to Houston to transport Moroccan football fans for the Atlas Lions' World Cup 2026 round of 16 match against Canada on July 4. This initiative follows the team's victory over the Netherlands. The airline, the official carrier of the national team, is increasing its capacity to meet the demand from supporters. These direct flights will offer over 3,000 seats, marking the first time Royal Air Maroc will serve Houston. Round-trip economy class tickets are priced at 10,000 dirhams, are non-changeable and non-refundable, and went on sale on Wednesday, July 1, at 10 AM through Royal Air Maroc agencies in Morocco and its dedicated online portal. The company states it has mobilized all its technical, logistical, and commercial resources to support national football and enable more fans to attend this stage of the Atlas Lions' journey.
1 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 Jul 2026
South Africa hosts Africa's Travel Indaba in Durban
South African Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille officially opened Africa’s Travel Indaba at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban. The three-day African leisure trade show gathers tourism stakeholders globally for networking, business development, and idea exchange. This year's theme is 'Unlimited Africa,' with the mantra 'Shaping Africa’s Tomorrow, Through Connection Today.' Minister De Lille emphasized crafting an African narrative to share unique contributions to global tourism. The event features nearly 1,000 exhibitors, 1,000 buyers, over 350 tourism products, and representatives from 21 African countries, airlines, tour operators, and tourism boards. The Namibia Tourism Board and Namibian tourism operators are among the 6,000 anticipated attendees from May 9 to 11.
1 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 Jul 2026
Africa's Travel Indaba opens in Durban with focus on 'Unlimited Africa
South African tourism minister Patricia de Lille officially opened Africa's Travel Indaba at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban. The three-day African leisure trade show gathers tourism stakeholders globally for networking, business development, and idea exchange. This year's theme is 'Unlimited Africa,' with the mantra 'Shaping Africa's Tomorrow, Through Connection Today.' Minister De Lille emphasized crafting an African narrative to share the continent's unique contributions to global tourism, aiming to challenge stereotypes and promote an inclusive society. The event features nearly 1,000 exhibitors, 1,000 buyers, over 350 tourism products, and representatives from 21 African countries, airlines, tour operators, and tourism boards. The Namibia Tourism Board and various Namibian tourism entities are also participating, with 6,000 attendees expected between May 9 and 11.
1 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·1 Jul 2026
Nine budget-friendly international travel destinations for South Africans in 2024
For South African travelers planning international trips in 2024, several budget-friendly destinations offer good value and favorable visa requirements. India, a BRICS nation, provides a rich cultural and religious experience with diverse landscapes and activities, from the Taj Mahal to beaches and mountains. Brazil, a visa-free option, is South America's largest country, featuring attractions like Christ the Redeemer and Rio de Janeiro's beaches, with opportunities for further travel to nearby visa-free countries like Bolivia and Argentina. Russia allows South Africans to stay visa-free for up to 90 days, offering exploration of Lake Baikal and cities like St. Petersburg and Moscow. Jamaica, another visa-free island nation, boasts attractions from the Bob Marley Mausoleum to river rafting and historical sites. Namibia offers stunning landscapes, a favorable exchange rate, and affordable accommodation, with cultural experiences like visiting the Himba tribe and adventure sports. Kenya is renowned for its safari experiences, including the Masai Mara and Mount Kenya, alongside beautiful Indian Ocean beaches. Turkiye, bridging Western Asia and Southeastern Europe, features Ottoman architecture, Turkish hammams, and hot-air balloon rides in Cappadocia. Thailand, a visa-free gateway to Southeast Asia, provides ancient temples, tropical beaches, and unique culinary experiences. Lastly, the Republic of Ireland is visa-free for South Africans, offering castles, cathedrals, museums, a
5 min read
🇬🇭GhanaWeb·29 Jun 2026
Ghana Civil Aviation Authority investigates alleged mistreatment of passengers on KLM flight to Accra
The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority GCAA has launched an investigation into allegations of mistreatment by KLM against passengers traveling from Amsterdam to Accra. Videos circulating on social media show stranded travelers expressing frustration over their ordeal. Passengers claimed they were left waiting for several hours after a delayed and subsequently canceled flight KL059, which was scheduled to arrive in Accra on Saturday, June 27, 2026. Some passengers alleged that when they sought solutions, the airline called the police. One passenger, Frieda Yayra Amable, recounted being stuck at Schiphol Airport from Friday morning until Sunday due to flight cancellations and visa issues preventing access to a hotel. She stated that Dutch police denied them visas, making it impossible to travel through two Schengen states. The GCAA stated that it is engaging all relevant stakeholders and will communicate the outcome of the investigation, emphasizing its commitment to passenger welfare and maintaining high service standards within the aviation sector.
3 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·29 Jun 2026
Nigerian airports face disruption as NiMet workers protest NAMA's alleged non-remittance of funds
Airport operations across Nigeria may face disruptions starting Wednesday due to a nationwide protest by workers of the Nigerian Airspace Meteorological Agency NiMet. The industrial action, announced by the NiMet Unions Joint Action Committee, stems from the alleged failure of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency NAMA to remit 10 percent of statutory en-route and overflight charges to NiMet. NiMet staff provide essential weather reports for pilots. The unions claim NAMA has ignored a directive from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to remit the outstanding funds within 48 hours. The protest notice, signed by secretaries of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals, and the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies, directs members to begin a peaceful protest at 6:00 am on Wednesday at all NiMet offices. The unions accuse NAMA of undermining worker welfare and disrupting NiMet's operations. This decision followed a Joint Union Congress meeting on June 15, where members resolved to escalate the matter if payment was not made within one week. The unions warned that workers had exhausted their patience. While described as peaceful, the protest could cripple the industry given NiMet's critical role in flight planning, aircraft dispatch, take-off, and landing. Copies of the protest notice were
2 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·29 Jun 2026
Lagos airport temporary terminal floods, operations moved to Terminal 2
The temporary terminal at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos experienced severe flooding on Sunday following heavy rainfall, leading to its abrupt closure. The departure hall, boarding gates, and airline temporary offices were submerged, and the terminal's powerhouse was also flooded, resulting in a power outage. Airlines such as Air France-KLM, Ethiopian Airlines, and Fly Gabon, which operated from the temporary facility, were relocated to Terminal Two of the MMIA. Officials from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria FAAN attributed the flooding to blocked drainage channels, which they linked to the Chinese company currently reconstructing the old international terminal. FAAN spokesperson Henry Agbebire confirmed the incident, stating that ongoing construction work at the airport temporarily affected the drainage system. He assured that operations were not significantly impacted, with no flight cancellations, and immediate action was being taken to prevent future occurrences. This incident follows the closure of the old MMIA terminal for a major reconstruction project and a recent fire at the same facility.
1 min read
🇱🇾Libya Herald·28 Jun 2026
Libya to launch cultural and tourism caravan to promote heritage and foster exchange
Libya's Minister of Tourism and Traditional Industries, Nasr al-Din Milad al-Fazani, and Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, Salem al-Alam, met to discuss a joint 'Cultural and Artistic Tourism Caravan'. The initiative, organized by the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, aims to strengthen cooperation, showcase national identity, and promote Libyan heritage. Scheduled to depart from Zuwara towards the eastern region at the end of July, the caravan will foster cultural exchange between cities and highlight archaeological sites. It will visit several cities and historical locations, featuring folk art troupes from Ghadames and Ghat, artists, singers, intellectuals, and a mobile book fair. The program also includes theatrical and artistic performances, heritage, and craft events to revitalize domestic tourism. Both ministers emphasized the importance of integrated efforts for the success of this national initiative, which seeks to consolidate belonging and communication between Libyan regions as a pillar of sustainable development.
1 min read
🇬🇦Gabon Review·28 Jun 2026
Gabon to participate in UN Tourism regional meeting in Seychelles
Gabon's government has authorized the Minister of Sustainable Tourism and Handicrafts to represent the country at the 69th meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa and a thematic conference. These events are scheduled to take place from July 2 to 4, 2026, in Mahé, Seychelles. The meeting, organized under the auspices of UN Tourism, will bring together African tourism leaders to discuss policies and strategies aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of African destinations. In addition, participants will attend a thematic conference focused on "strengthening human capital to boost tourism growth in Africa." Discussions will cover professional training, skills development, and improving service quality, which are considered crucial for increasing the continent's tourism appeal. Gabon's participation aims to contribute to discussions on the future of African tourism and strengthen its cooperation with other UN Tourism member states. This presence will also promote Gabon's national vision for sustainable tourism, which emphasizes the development of its natural, cultural, and artisanal heritage.
1 min read
🇲🇦Le Matin·28 Jun 2026
Best Western plans 25 hotels in Morocco by 2030, targeting 2,750 rooms
Best Western Hotels & Resorts has unveiled its development plan for Morocco, aiming for 25 hotels and 2,750 rooms by 2030. This expansion is driven by Morocco's strong tourism growth, with 19.8 million tourist arrivals recorded in 2025, a 14% increase from 2024. This performance is attributed to the 2023-2026 Tourism Roadmap, launched under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, which has enhanced air connectivity, accommodation capacity, service quality, and territorial investment. Best Western has established a subsidiary, BWH NWA, in Casablanca, dedicated to hotel development in North Africa and the Mediterranean. This move, coupled with an exclusive partnership with Wejhat Hospitality, underscores the group's focus on Morocco as a priority market. Pierre Siegel, president of Best Western France, highlighted Morocco's economic growth, tourism potential, and diverse infrastructure as key factors for this decision, noting the royal commitment to developing tourism and hotel infrastructure across the country. The "Road Map" targets various Moroccan cities and regions, emphasizing a structured approach that complements Best Western's 19 brands, ranging from 2-star plus to 5-star properties. Salah Oumoudden and Philippe Storti, co-founders of Wejhat Hospitality Management Africa, believe this partnership opens new opportunities for hoteliers and investors in the Kingdom. Olivier Cohn, CEO of Best Western, sees Morocco as a pillar of the chain's growth due to its exceptional touris
3 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·28 Jun 2026
Namibia's tourism faces decline in German and European visitors after visa policy change
Namibia experienced a decrease in German and European tourist arrivals in 2025, a trend that may be linked to a new visa policy implemented in April of the previous year, which ended visa-free travel for European nations. Gitta Paetzold, chief executive of the Hospitality Association of Namibia, suggested that visa policies could be diminishing the country's competitiveness as a tourist destination. A report from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism indicated fewer German tourists visited Namibia in 2025 compared to 2024, alongside a general decline in European visitors. While the hospitality industry itself has not observed a similar decline in its own visitor numbers, the overall international visitor count to Namibia dropped by 6.5% and tourist arrivals by 3.2% compared to 2024. Tourism Minister Indileni Daniel described this decrease as a "wake-up call" to enhance the country's competitiveness. German tourists, who constitute the largest group from non-African countries, saw a 27.4% reduction in numbers in 2025, and European tourists overall decreased by 21%. Daniel also cited safety concerns reported in international media and crimes against tourists as contributing factors to the decline.
2 min read