By Ayomide Otitoju
The Bench has announced the 2026 recipients of the prestigious FHS Africa Awards, recognising outstanding contributions to the continent’s hospitality sector.
Vimbai Masiyiwa, Co-Founder and CEO of Batoka Africa, will receive the Leadership Award, while Colin Bell, CEO of Natural Selection and former CEO of Wilderness, has been named recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to Hospitality Award.
Both honours will be presented at FHS Africa 2026, scheduled to hold in Nairobi from March 31 to April 1, where the awardees will also participate in exclusive sessions reflecting on their careers and impact on African hospitality.
Masiyiwa is being recognised for her role in shaping a new era of African hospitality through Batoka Africa, which operates luxury safari properties in Zimbabwe with a focus on conservation, sustainability and community empowerment. Under her leadership, the company has advanced responsible tourism practices that support biodiversity while creating economic opportunities for local communities.
Reacting to the award, Masiyiwa described the recognition as a reflection of the collective efforts of her team and partner communities, noting that hospitality plays a key role in preserving land, culture and shared prosperity.
Bell, widely regarded as a leading figure in African conservation tourism, is being honoured for his contributions to developing high-end, conservation-driven safari experiences. Through his leadership roles, he has helped expand tourism into new regions while strengthening partnerships with governments and local communities.
Speaking on the recognition, Bell said the award highlights the importance of connecting travellers to natural environments in ways that preserve them for future generations.
Growth Director at The Bench, Matthew Weihs, described both recipients as exemplary leaders whose work reflects a balance of commercial success, sustainability and community impact.
FHS Africa 2026 is expected to bring together investors, operators and industry leaders from across the continent and beyond for discussions on the future of hospitality, alongside networking and recognition of excellence in the sector.
