Akwaaba African Travel Market makes a significant return to ITB Berlin after a decade, strengthening West Africa’s global tourism presence

After more than a decade-long absence, Akwaaba African Travel Market has made a significant return to ITB Berlin, one of the world’s largest and oldest tourism trade exhibitions.

Also read: AFRI-LATAM CONNECT 2026 Launches UK Travel Roadshow

The Lagos-based travel fair last participated in the global event in 2012, and its reappearance signals a renewed chapter for West Africa’s leading international travel expo.

In the past 12 months alone, Akwaaba has expanded its international footprint, participating in major travel exhibitions including Kilifair Travel Expo in Tanzania, Magical Kenya Travel Expo, World Travel Market London, and EMITT in Turkey.

Its return to ITB Berlin reconnects West Africa’s premier travel platform to the heart of global tourism networking.

Now in its 22nd year, Akwaaba African Travel Market Lagos continues to provide a platform where African destinations engage directly with international buyers, airlines, hospitality brands, and tour operators.

The expo has built a reputation for benchmarking against international best practices in exhibition management, destination marketing, and trade networking.

Akwaaba’s global participation extends beyond Europe.

The expo has previously showcased African tourism at continental fairs such as Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo in Bulawayo, Africa’s Travel Indaba in South Africa, and the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo in Kampala, among others.

Founded in 1966, ITB Berlin is a cornerstone of the global tourism industry, drawing thousands of exhibitors and buyers worldwide.

For Akwaaba, returning to this stage is both symbolic and strategic, reaffirming West Africa’s presence in high-level tourism dialogue and reinforcing Lagos’ position as a regional tourism hub.

Also read: ITB Berlin 2026 Sells Out Early Amid Strong Travel Demand

The move comes as global travel rebounds and Africa’s tourism narrative continues to evolve, highlighting Akwaaba’s commitment to integration, visibility, and competitiveness on the world stage.