Angola’s Minister of Tourism Márcio Daniel named Tourism Personality of the Year at the 2026 Africa Tourism Awards

<p>The award recognises the Minister’s leadership and strategic vision in guiding the transformation of Angola’s tourism sector. It also acknowledges his work to establish Angola as an emerging leader in attracting tourism investment in Africa.</p><p>The awards are decided through a combination of independent judging and a public vote. The assessment criteria include innovation, impact on tourism development, sustainability, leadership and contribution to the growth of Africa’s tourism industry.</p><p>Under the Minister’s leadership, Angola has introduced structural reforms to simplify administrative procedures, digitise tourism licensing, improve land-use planning and expand the use of concessions for tourism assets. These measures aim to improve the business environment and encourage greater private investment.</p><p>Angola also became the first African country to join UNT-PASS as a founding member. This global UN Tourism platform connects tourism projects with institutional and private investors. As a founding member, Angola is helping to develop new ways to mobilise international financing for tourism.</p><p>Angola was also the Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2026, becoming the third African country to hold this distinction at one of the world’s largest tourism trade fairs. This role raised Angola’s international profile, showcased the diversity and potential of African tourism, and strengthened the continent’s presence in global tourism promotion and trade.</p><p>Bruno Ricardo Cardoso de Matos, National Director for the Economics of Tourism Concessions, accepted the award on the Minister’s behalf. The award marks international recognition of Angola’s efforts to establish tourism as a strategic part of the economy and to create opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, young people and local communities in Angola and across Africa.</p>