Umodzi Park Wins Malawi’s Leading Hotel for Third Time at World Travel Awards in Zanzibar 

By Salim Kikeke

Lilongwe, Malawi – August 2026 – Umodzi Park has once again been crowned Malawi’s Leading Hotel at the prestigious World Travel Awards Africa Gala Ceremony, held this year in Zanzibar, Tanzania. This marks the third time the Lilongwe-based hospitality landmark has claimed the top honour, solidifying its reputation as the country’s premier hotel destination . 

The ceremony, hosted at the newly opened Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar on 28 August, brought together over 300 delegates from across the continent, including government officials, tourism industry leaders, and hospitality executives. Zanzibar hosted the event for the first time, and the destination itself emerged as a major winner, taking home three top titles: Africa’s Leading Beach Destination, Africa’s Leading Festival & Event Destination, and Africa’s Leading Regional Tourist Board. 

Speaking after the win, Umodzi Park Sales and Marketing Manager Matamando Chagunda expressed pride in the achievement and highlighted the immense potential of the African tourism sector. 

“Africa is a gem that no one has really tapped fully, and Malawi happens to be one of those,” Chagunda said. “We are honoured to be recognised once again by the World Travel Awards, and this win reflects our commitment to excellence and our belief in Malawi’s growing appeal as a world-class destination.” 

A Historic Third Win 

Umodzi Park, which comprises The President Hotel, Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC), Malawi Square, and presidential villas in Lilongwe, has consistently set the benchmark for hospitality in the country. The hotel has previously won the Malawi’s Leading Hotel title in 2021 and 2022, making 2026 its third victory. The property is also a past recipient of the Africa’s Leading New Hotel award in 2016. 

The accolade comes as Malawi continues to strengthen its tourism profile. In 2024, the country waived visa requirements for 79 countries and launched a tourism university to raise hospitality standards. Mount Mulanje received UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2025, further boosting the nation’s international visibility. Despite these strides, Malawi remains one of Africa’s under-discovered treasures. In 2024, South Africa welcomed 8.92 million tourists while Malawi received just over 1.1 million visitors . 

Zanzibar Makes History 

The Zanzibar ceremony marked the opening stage of the World Travel Awards Grand Tour 2026, a series of regional events that will culminate in the Grand Final later this year. Winners from the Africa Gala Ceremony will now compete for global titles against regional winners from other parts of the world. 

Tanzania was also a dominant force on the night, being named Africa’s Leading Destination and Africa’s Leading Tourist Board. Serengeti National Park claimed Africa’s Leading National Park and Africa’s Leading Big 5 National Park, while Kilimanjaro National Park was named Africa’s Leading Mountain National Park. 

In the aviation sector, Kenya Airways took home Africa’s Leading Airline and Africa’s Leading Airline – Economy Class, while Ethiopian Airlines was named Africa’s Leading Airline – Business Class. Julius Nyerere International Airport in Tanzania earned the title of Africa’s Leading Airport. 

Looking Ahead 

Chagunda’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among tourism operators across the region that Africa’s travel sector is poised for significant growth. With Malawi’s continued investment in infrastructure, conservation-led tourism, and community engagement, the country is positioning itself as a compelling alternative to more crowded safari destinations. 

“We are excited about the future of tourism in Malawi,” Chagunda added. “This award is not just for Umodzi Park—it is for everyone in Malawi who works tirelessly to make our country a welcoming and unforgettable destination for visitors from around the world.” 

Africa’s winners will now advance to compete at the World Travel Awards Grand Final later this year, where they will vie for global titles against the best from other regions.