Hilton’s Africa Growth Initiative totalling $50 million is expected to add 100 properties to its portfolio over the next five years to support the continued expansion of its Sub-Saharan African portfolio.
These funds are intended to support the conversion of around 100 hotels (roughly 20,000 rooms) in multiple African markets into Hilton branded properties, namely into its flagship Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand, the upscale DoubleTree by Hilton and the recently launched Curio Collection by Hilton.
Patrick Fitzgibbon, Senior Vice President, Development, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Hilton said: “Hilton remains committed to growth in Africa having been present on the continent for more than 50 years. The model of converting existing hotels into Hilton branded properties has proved highly successful and we expect to see great opportunities to convert hotels to Hilton brands through this initiative.”
These hotels will receive all the benefits associated with Hilton’s industry-leading brand proposition and world-class commercial platforms. Guests will also be able to take advantage of Hilton’s innovative technology platforms such as online check-in and the ability to choose individual rooms when booking via the Hilton Honors App.
Fitzgibbon added: “The range of brands we have at our disposal allows owners the flexibility to pick the right fit for their property. Our first DoubleTree by Hilton properties are in Kenya, and in Rwanda.”
DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi Hurlingham
The first hotel in this initiative is the 109-room Amber Hotel on Nairobi’s Ngong Road, which will re-launch under the DoubleTree by Hilton brand. Following the refurbishment, the hotel will be known as DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi Hurlingham and will continue to be operated by the owner under a franchise agreement.
DoubleTree by Hilton Kigali City Centre
The 153 room Ubumwe Grande Hotel in the Kigali central business district will trade under the DoubleTree by Hilton brand when it fully converts in 2018. This franchised property – with 134 guest rooms and 19 apartments – opened in September 2016. The hotel will will be Hilton’s first property in Rwanda.
Hilton operates 19 hotels in the Sub Saharan Africa with a further 29 in its pipeline.
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