Radisson Blu 2 Fevrier will host the event in April this year

Togo is to host an Africa Hotel Investment Forum in spring 2016 reflecting the country’s optimism for further economic expansion.

AHIF conferences bring together major international investors, business leaders, government ministers and top officials from across Africa.

The plans to host an AHIF conference in Togo’s capital Lomé next April run parallel with two major development initiatives designed to enhance the country’s standing as a strategic investment destination for business and tourism by the ministry of commerce, industry, private sector promotion and tourism of Togo.

Lomé’s new airport terminal, which was scheduled to open in late 2015, will increase passenger capacity from 400,000 to two million, and triple the international airport’s passenger and cargo potential.

It will accommodate direct flights from Cairo, Turkey and Dubai. Within the next decade the expansion of the capital’s sea port will triple its capacity, to 1.2 million containers a year.

Matthew Weihs, managing director of Bench Events, which organises AHIF, said: “Our decision to host an additional AHIF conference in Lomé comes at a pivotal time for Togo.

“Business and tourism is growing and we’re confident this will fuel increased demand for hotel capacity.

“We believe the airport and port expansion will trigger other infrastructure projects, presenting significant opportunities for business and tourism.

“Togo is increasingly becoming an important investment destination.”

The AHIF conference will take place on April 5th-6th April at the new landmark Radisson Blu 2 Fevrier hotel in the capital.

It will give delegates the chance to discuss the challenges and opportunities of investing and developing in the country.

The Radisson Blu 2 Fevrier is an upscale 320-room prestigious complex with two auditoriums, business centre, swimming pool, tennis courts and casino.

Bernadette Essossimna Legzim-Balouki, Togo minister for tourism said: “Our government is keen to see sustainable economic growth, and travel and tourism is a major contributor to that effort.

“Of course we face a number of challenges, and discussion between government and business, such as at AHIF, will help us find the best way forward.”