The Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality and Tourism in Africa

Esi Akyere Mensah; Aaron Yankholmes; Frank Badu-Baiden; Nii Longdon Sowah

doi:10.1108/978-1-80686-169-920261001

The Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality and Tourism in Africa

Esi Akyere Mensah
, Aaron Yankholmes
, Frank Badu-Baiden
, Nii Longdon Sowah

Department of Computer Engineering

International University of Grand-Bassam
Nottingham Trent University
Hong Kong Polytechnic University
University of Central Florida

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Chapter › peer-review

Abstract

While Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionised the world of business globally, its adoption in hospitality and tourism across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remains limited. This introductory chapter explores the global pro- liferation of AI and its specific implications for the hospitality and tourism sector, with a focused lens on Africa. It presents a detailed regional analysis of Africa’s diverse tourism economies, highlighting stark disparities in performance, digital infrastructure and AI readiness. This chapter argues that while AI presents a significant opportunity for efficiency, person- alisation and sustainable development in tourism, its adoption in Africa is constrained by foundational challenges, including data inconsistencies, skills gaps and uneven digital infrastructure.

Original language	English
Title of host publication	Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality and Tourism in Africa
Subtitle of host publication	Prospects, Opportunities and Challenges
Publisher	Emerald Group Publishing Ltd.
Pages	1-18
Number of pages	18
ISBN (Electronic)	9781806861699
ISBN (Print)	9781806861705
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80686-169-920261001
Publication status	Published - 1 Jan 2026

Keywords

AI adoption
AI challenges
AI opportunities
Africa
technology adoption

Access to Document

10.1108/978-1-80686-169-920261001

Cite this

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The Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality and Tourism in Africa. / Mensah, Esi Akyere; Yankholmes, Aaron; Badu-Baiden, Frank et al.
Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality and Tourism in Africa: Prospects, Opportunities and Challenges. Emerald Group Publishing Ltd., 2026. p. 1-18.

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Chapter › peer-review

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The Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Hospitality and Tourism in Africa

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Keywords

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