ATTA appoints Kgomotso Ramothea & James Haigh to leadership roles

The African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA) has appointed two respected industry stalwarts to key leadership
positions, marking a significant step in the organization’s evolution.

As the organization’s first African female CEO, Kgomotso Ramothea, takes the reins with a vision to further expand the continent’s largest tourism network.

Ramothea brings over 20 years’ experience in marketing and communications across various industries. Her most recent experience was working as Acting Hub Head for South African Tourism in the United Kingdom where she directed the tourism board’s UK and Irish marketing strategy.

“I am honoured to take on this pivotal role at ATTA and committed to driving inclusive growth in tourism to Africa,” said Ramothea. “The team will be focussed on reinforcing the existing trust the organization enjoys amongst stakeholders and ensure ATTA remains relevant and indispensable to member’s; businesses, through events and other tangible benefits.”

Ramothea will working alongside Chris Mears, who is the CEO of ATTA Events. She will be based at ATTA’s new office (Matrix Studios, 91 Peterborough Road, SW6 3BU) and can be contacted via email – kgomotso@atta.travel.

Ramothea’s appointment comes as James Haigh steps in as ATTA’s new Chair from October 2024, taking over from outgoing Chair Nick Aslin. Haigh has extensive tourism experience built from 25 years of working across several African countries including, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, South Africa, as well as consultancy work in Gabon, and São Tomé and Príncipe.

The dual appointment of Ramothea and Haigh complements ATTA’s senior and executive leadership and strengthens the organization’s role as the leading authority and trusted voice of African tourism, says Nigel Vere Nicoll, president and group managing director.

“We are pleased to have both leading the direction of ATTA and we know that their extensive experience across Africa’s travel and tourism industry will directly benefit members,” Vere Nicoll concluded.