African growth and development are fast impacting on the hospitality sector, which continues to expand as business travel and tourism escalate.

This week, globally renowned high-end hotel group, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, announced aggressive expansion in Africa, increasing its market penetration across the region.

With an already strong footprint operating 34 hotels and a robust pipeline of 20 hotels under development, Starwood is set to grow its portfolio by over 50% in the next five years. “The momentum of growth we are seeing in Africa today is unprecedented,” said Michael Wale, president for Starwood, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “Africa is a market with huge potential. With economic growth, a rising middle class and rapid urbanisation, the demand for travel and quality lodging will continue to grow and provide us with a significant opportunity to grow our brands and play our part in supporting many emerging markets across the continent.”

Reaffirming its commitment to growth in the region, the company announced seven new deals – Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport (Kenya); Aloft Dakar (Senegal); Element Oyster Bay Dar es Salaam (Tanzania); W Sharm El Sheikh and The Residences at W Sharm El Sheikh (Egypt); Sheraton Bamako (Mali); The Westin Abuja and Residences (Nigeria); and Four Points by Sheraton Abuja and Residences (Nigeria).With the new signings, Starwood will further build its position, especially in Nigeria and Egypt, increase its presence in Senegal and enter new markets such as Mali, Kenya and Tanzania.