Taqi Moledina is appointed Chair of ATTA for a two-year term.

With effect from October 1, 2026, Taqi Moledina has been named the new Chair of the African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA). He will replace James Haigh and hold office for two years, ending on September 30, 2028. The appointment coincides with the start of ATTA’s new strategic phase, which aims to assist the long-term growth of Africa’s tourist sector, build its global network, and increase members’ commercial opportunities.

Along with her family’s more than 100-year history in East Africa, Moledina has almost 25 years of experience in African tourism. He has worked at ARP Africa Travel Group for about 25 years, rising through the ranks to become Chair and CEO. Throughout his career, he has formed alliances throughout Africa and important foreign source markets, bringing African tourism companies into contact with clients and global economic prospects.

In her role as Chair, Moledina will collaborate closely with the Board of Directors, the executive team, and ATTA CEO Virginia Messina to further the organization’s strategic goals. His duties will include bolstering global cooperation, assisting members, and promoting the expansion of sustainable tourism throughout the continent.

James Haigh, the outgoing chair, welcomed the appointment and emphasised Moledina’s vast industry experience, enduring connections, and ties to Africa. As ATTA moves into its next phase, Haigh also expressed confidence that his successor will offer fresh perspectives and vigour.

Moledina expressed gratitude to Haigh for his leadership and contributions to the organization, pointing out that he leaves ATTA with solid foundations to build upon. He highlighted the continent’s substantial unrealised potential and rising number of foreign visitors, describing the current era as an exciting time for African tourism.

He noted that by enhancing cooperation with governments, corporations, investors, and tourism associations worldwide, ATTA can play a significant part in realising this promise. He also emphasised the richness of Africa, including its wildlife, scenery, hospitality, and cultures and communities.

Moledina underlined how important ethical and sustainable travel is becoming. According to him, ATTA can influence the expansion of tourism in a way that benefits nearby communities, safeguards ecosystems and species, and boosts larger economies.

Moledina’s appointment was also welcomed by ATTA CEO Virginia Messina, who described his significant commercial business experience and profound grasp of Africa as valuable assets for the association’s next phase.

More than 1,000 travel agencies in Africa and important foreign source markets are represented by ATTA. Tour operators, lodging providers, destination experts, tourist groups, and other companies engaged in creating and promoting travel to and within Africa are among its members.