Africa Travel Week (ATW), the continent’s leading travel and tourism platform, has opened submissions for the Third Annual ATW Media Awards, aimed at celebrating outstanding journalism and creativity across Africa’s tourism sector.
The initiative, a collaboration between the World Travel Market (WTM) Portfolio and the African Tourism Board (ATB), seeks to elevate authentic African narratives and drive global attention toward the continent’s diverse travel offerings.
ATB Executive Chairman Cuthbert Ncube emphasized the importance of unity and representation in storytelling, saying,
“It is time to break away from this culture of colonial seclusions and embrace the culture of a free Africa. It is time to speak with one voice. Let the walls of separation fall and let bridges span the divide. We are one and we are Africa. This is why these awards, in partnership with WTM, are vital to ensure our story is told authentically and consistently to the world.”
The Media Awards complement the growing success of WTM Africa, a cornerstone of the ATW ecosystem and the continent’s premier travel trade event. The 2024 edition recorded more than 10,000 pre-scheduled appointments, up 8% from the previous year, and welcomed over 10,000 visitors, marking a 25% year-on-year increase (unaudited).
ATW Portfolio Director Megan De Jager said the awards will spotlight excellence in storytelling that fuels Africa’s tourism growth.
“Their expertise will ensure we recognise the most compelling storytellers who bring Africa’s extraordinary travel experiences to new audiences,” she noted, referring to the international judging panel.
Global Jury for 2026 Awards
A world-class panel of editorial and creative leaders will adjudicate the 2026 edition, including:
Divia Thani, Global Editorial Director, Condé Nast Traveller
Barry Nield, Global Editor, CNN Travel
Tom Hall, Vice President, Lonely Planet
Kojo Bentum-Williams, Founder and Publisher, VoyagesAfriq
Ellie Rothnie, wildlife photographer, tour leader, and Canon ambassador
Award Categories
Reflecting key trends shaping global travel, the awards will honour excellence across five categories focused on sustainability, innovation, and impactful storytelling:
Sustainability Feature Award – For stories on regenerative tourism, conservation, and community-led initiatives.
Tourism News Award – For in-depth reporting on industry developments and innovations.
Destination Feature Award – For features showcasing cultural traditions and local communities.
Visual Tourism Award – For exceptional photography and visual storytelling.
Young Talent Award – For emerging journalists and creators under 25 shaping Africa’s travel narrative.
Entries are free to submit and open to work published between January 1 and December 31, 2025.
Key Dates
Entry Deadline: January 16, 2026
Winners Announcement: During Africa Travel Week 2026, which includes WTM Africa, to be held from April 13–15, 2026, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)