Africa Albida Tourism (AAT) has appointed a new management couple, Wesley and Roxanne Cragg, to run Ngoma Safari Lodge in Chobe, Botswana.

AAT Chief Executive, Ross Kennedy said: “We are delighted to have Wesley and Roxanne join Ngoma Safari Lodge in the role of lodge managers. With backgrounds and experience that includes such brands as Singita, as well as energy and ambition that is tangible, they have both already made their mark on colleagues and guests alike.”

According to Kennedy, the couple’s first month in the position saw Ngoma Safari Lodge break all occupancy records since opening seven years ago.

Roxanne’s focus will be on front of house, guest experience, food and beverage, as well as administrative duties, while Wesley will be responsible for guides and activities, vehicles, maintenance, projects and security.

Wesley said they were looking forward to bringing innovative ideas to the property and building a strong team. “With over a decade of guiding experience, I am excited to get involved with the training of the guides, and escalating the safari experience to the next level.”

Roxanne added: “With a keen eye for detail and enthusiasm for food and beverage, I am looking forward to working closely with the back and front of house staff to exceed guest expectations.”

The couple came from Kwandwe Private Game Reserve in South Africa, where Wesley was senior guide and Roxanne was reception manager. Both have also previously worked at Singita Sabi Sand and Singita Kruger National Park.

Ngoma Safari Lodge, a boutique eight-suite luxury property on the western edge of Chobe National Park, is operated by AAT, whose portfolio includes Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Victoria Falls Safari Club, Victoria Falls Safari Suites, Lokuthula Lodges and The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show.

BON Hotels has appointed Siyanda Zindela as GM of Shishangeni by BON Hotels in the Kruger National Park.

Zindela will oversee the entire management of the four-star property, including all three camps – Shishangeni Private Lodge, Camp Shonga and Camp Shawu.

From his waiting-on-tables days at Southern Sun Elangeni (formerly Southern Sun North Beach), Zindela brings experience in management across all hotel divisions. During his short time at Shishangeni, he has introduced bush walks, a village tour that forms part of their corporate social investment strategy, as well as staff training and career development. Future plans include retrofitting the property in line with the group’s sustainability strategy.

Zindela places a strong focus on employee advancement, training and skills development. “People skills is one of my biggest strengths and I draw on my ability to work with teams, create a positive culture and influence people not only to make things work, but also to realise their dreams.”

In addition, Zindela is planning to complete his MBA in Tourism in 2019.