Welcome to The Pulse by Kasi - a weekly newsletter on what Africans think, want and do, in real time.
Hilton is betting big on Africa with over 30 new hotels as travel booms and cities like Nairobi, Accra, and Lagos emerge as business and leisure hotspots. Meanwhile, East Africa’s alcohol market is evolving fast, Nigerian households are doubling down on smart shopping, and banking preferences are shifting across the continent. Plus, Africa’s critical minerals are stepping into the spotlight as a catalyst for sustainable growth.
Hilton Bets Big on Africa as Travel Booms
Hilton is making a bold play in Africa with more than 30 new hotels rising across 17 countries. The company is riding the wave of a booming middle class eager to travel for work, leisure, and celebration. Carlos Khneisser, Hilton’s Vice President of Development for the Middle East and Africa, said the brand sees lasting potential as travelers look for fresh experiences and trusted places to stay. With Africa’s middle class set to surge by 2030, demand for affordable, high-quality hotels is taking off. Easier visas and better flight options in countries like Nigeria, Egypt, and Angola are opening doors for more people to explore the continent.
Cities like Nairobi, Accra, and Lagos are turning into hotspots for business and tourism, fueling a need for hotels that mix comfort, style, and flexibility. Hilton is answering with a diverse lineup of brands, from the familiar Hampton by Hilton to the vibrant Canopy, tailored to suit every taste and budget. This expansion is part of a bigger hospitality boom as global brands race to meet Africa’s new generation of travelers.
FMCG / Retail
🍷📈 In H1 2025, East Africa’s alcohol demand split in new directions. Wine, cream liqueurs, and rum surged while beer and whisky held steady. Uganda and Tanzania led the way, but Kenya showed slower growth. Explore the trends driving this shift and see how segmentation is reshaping the market. #EastAfrica #AlcoholTrends #ConsumerInsights #2025Growth
🍲 Nigerian families are spending smart in Q2 2025, focusing on essentials like fresh produce, grains, and dairy while brands that blend affordability, convenience, and quality are winning hearts 💚 #Nigeria #ConsumerTrends #FMCG #SmartShopping #BrandStrategy
Banking and Finance
Cameroonians face rising income pressure 💸 pushing 64% to consider moving for better opportunities 🌱 From tailored banking solutions to smart labor strategies, supporting ambition can turn migration into resilience ✨ #FinancialFreedom #Cameroon
Ugandan consumers are raising the bar for banks. 💡 It’s no longer just about trust: service, simplicity, and smart digital experiences are driving loyalty. Discover how leading brands are adapting to these shifting expectations and what it takes to stand out in a crowded market. #BankingTrends #CustomerExperience #Uganda
Development and Impact
🌍 From cobalt to lithium, Africa holds the keys to a cleaner, connected world. 🌿🔋 Now is the time to champion ethical sourcing, local innovation, and industries that create real opportunity. Together, progress can be built from the ground up. #AfricaInnovates #MineralsForChange #SustainableGrowth ✨
Travel & Hospitality
🌆🏖️ West Africa, North Africa, and South Africa—which destination tops your list? Uncover the priorities of Baby Boomers, Gen X, Gen Z, and Millennials in travel choices. Find out what's hot in African travel preferences.
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