Calling all change-makers! Africa Travel Week (ATW) is urging responsible tourism businesses to enter the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards. The deadline for submissions is 19 March 2025.
“These annual awards celebrate exceptional efforts driving tourism as a force for good,” says Megan de Jager, portfolio director for RX Africa, organiser of ATW. “They’re our way of honouring initiatives that address key global challenges while enhancing the travel experience.”
Award entries will be judged by a panel of industry experts led by Dr Harold Goodwin, WTM Africa’s responsible tourism adviser.
The six confirmed categories for 2025 are summarised below:
- All-Inclusive Tourism: Can it be Responsible?
- Adapting to Climate Change
- Increasing Local Sourcing (to Create Shared Value)
- Peace and Understanding
- Managing Waste: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Upcycle
- Nature Positive Travel
Winners will be announced live at WTM Africa at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on 10 April 2025.
Gold winners in each category will also have the opportunity to compete at the global Responsible Tourism Awards later in 2025.
“In previous years, Africa has scooped as many as five awards in the global accolades, and last year we picked up another – this underscores our region’s innovative spirit, drive and commitment to responsible tourism,” De Jager adds.
How to enter
Entering is free and easy. But hurry – entries close on 19 March 2025!
- Step 1: Visit the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards page.
- Step 2: Select your category and download the entry form.
- Step 3: Submit a compelling case study to sharon.murray@rxglobal.com, showing your measurable impact and innovative approach to responsible tourism.
“We believe tourism can change the world,” says De Jager. “If that’s a message you align with, don’t miss your chance to be recognised as a leader in responsible tourism and to put your company on the global map.
Image credit: Denis Private Island, Seychelles (2024 Gold Winner for Nature Positive)