Advisory Board Portrait : Mossadeck BALLY

Today with Mossadeck BALLY, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Azalaï Hotels Group & President, National Council of Employers of Mali (CNPM)

Azalai Hotels, a pan-African group and the leading hotel chain in West Africa, recently opened a hotel in Dakar, Senegal. How do emerging trends in the hotel industry in Africa influence Azalaï Hotels’ growth strategy?

The recent inauguration of the 4 star Azalai Hotel in Dakar, Senegal was an important step in our growth strategy within the Azalaï Hotels group. Emerging trends in the hotel industry in Africa are having a significant impact on our development strategy. 

We are seeing a growing demand for quality hotel experiences, both from business travellers and international and domestic tourists. This trend is driving us to focus on expanding our presence in key destinations across the continent. We are adapting our growth strategy to respond to these trends by focusing on the diversification of our hotel portfolio, both in terms of geographical location and property type. In addition to urban hotels, we are also exploring opportunities in the beach tourism (coastal tourism) and leisure segments, as well as in the business and conference tourism sector.

We also keep an eye on technological developments and customer expectations in terms of hotel services and experiences. This motivates us to invest in technological innovations and customer service initiatives to remain competitive in the marketplace. Emerging trends in the hotel sector in Africa influence our growth strategy by pushing us to diversify our offer, to invest in innovation and strengthen our presence in key destinations across the continent

In your opinion, how can we foster innovative growth models in the tourism sector to promote economic, social and sustainable development on the continent?

To foster innovative growth models in the tourism sector with a view to promoting economic, social and sustainable development on the continent, Several strategies can be considered, including:

Investment in tourism infrastructure: In collaboration with governments and private sector players, it is crucial to invest in the development and improvement of tourism infrastructure, including roads, airports, accommodation and tourist attractions. This will make destinations more accessible and attractive to travelers.

Promoting ecotourism and sustainable tourism: Encouraging travel practices that respect the environment and local communities can help preserve natural and cultural resources while offering authentic experiences to travelers. Initiatives such as eco-certification of accommodation, eco-responsible tours and conservation projects can be promoted and supported.

Encouraging local entrepreneurship: Fostering the emergence of local businesses in the tourism sector by offering financial, technical and marketing support can stimulate economic growth at the community level. Initiatives to develop entrepreneurial skills and promote businesses owned by women and young people can also be implemented.

Use of technology and innovation: Adopting technologies such as online booking platforms, mobile travel apps and tourism management solutions can improve operational efficiency, market visibility and customer experience. In addition, innovation in tourism product design, such as themed tours and immersive experiences, can boost destination appeal.

Strengthening regional cooperation: Collaboration between countries and regions can foster the development of cross-border tourist circuits, the joint promotion of destinations and the sharing of best practices in tourism management. This can help attract more international tourists and maximize economic benefits for the region as a whole.

As President of the Conseil National du Patronat du Mali (CNPM), what is your vision of the economic situation in West Africa, and what measures do you recommend to foster a business environment conducive to development in the region?

As President of the National Council of the Employers’ Association of Mali (CNPM), my view of the economic situation in West Africa is that there are considerable potential but also significant challenges to be met. West Africa is rich in natural, human and economic resources that can catalyze sustainable and inclusive development in the region. However, to fully exploit this potential, the need for structural reforms and strategic policies to create a business environment conducive to investment, growth and innovation. Here are some measures I recommend to foster such an environment:

• Infrastructure strengthening, that is to say Investment in physical (roads, ports, airports, energy) and social (education, health, ICT) infrastructure is essential to support economic development and foster regional integration. Cross-border and interconnected infrastructure projects can enhance the competitiveness of businesses and facilitate trade.

• Encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation: Governments and development partners must support local entrepreneurs by providing access to financing, professional training and markets. In addition, encouraging technological innovation and promoting start-ups can stimulate economic diversification and create jobs in high-growth sectors.

• Human capital: human capital is the key driver of economic development in West Africa. Our region abounds in natural resources and investment opportunities, but to fully exploit this potential, we need to invest in our human capital.

– This starts with education. We must commit to providing quality education for all the region’s children, with an emphasis on literacy, basic skills and technical and vocational education. A well-trained and educated workforce is essential to sustain economic growth, foster innovation and attract investment.

-In addition, we must ensure that our population enjoys good health. This means investing in quality healthcare services that are accessible to all. Healthy populations are more productive, which stimulates economic growth and reduces the costs associated with illness and absenteeism in the workplace.

-We need to encourage ongoing training and professional development to ensure that our workers remain competitive in a constantly evolving market. This includes access to specialized training programs, mentoring and networking opportunities, as well as incentives for companies that invest in employee development.

-By investing in our human capital by providing quality education, accessible health services and continuing education opportunities – we can create a skilled, healthy and resilient workforce, which will serve as an engine for sustainable economic development in West Africa.

• Promoting regional trade and economic integration: Regional economic integration, notably through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), is a crucial step in stimulating economic development in West Africa.

By reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers, the AfCFTA opens new prospects for our businesses. It gives us access to a larger market, promoting the growth and competitiveness of our industries. By working together, we can create regional value chains, harnessing our collective strengths to produce higher-quality, lower-cost goods and services. The AfCFTA also enhances our attractiveness to foreign investment. By offering an integrated and harmonized market, we reduce the risks for investors and stimulate capital flows to our region. Most importantly, the AfCFTA promotes greater cooperation and solidarity between our nations. By working together, we can meet common challenges and take full advantage of opportunities.

I am deeply convinced that young people are the architects of our continent’s future. Their innovative ideas, passion and commitment are the drivers of change and the positive transformation of our societies. They have the power and responsibility to shape a better future for Africa and its people.

I encourage them to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams with determination and perseverance. They must take risks and explore new opportunities. The road to success may be strewn with obstacles, but every challenge is an opportunity for learning and growth. They must be bold in their aspirations and remain true to their values. Integrity, empathy and a sense of responsibility are essential qualities for becoming exemplary leaders and agents of positive change in their communities. Remember that success is measured not only by material wealth, but also by the impact they have on others and the world around them.

Finally, it’s important to remember that they are not alone in their journey. There are mentors, colleagues and partners who share their vision and can support them in achieving their goals. I believe in them and their ability to achieve great things. Together, we can build a prosperous, inclusive and sustainable future for Africa.