Uganda | Unveiled “Okello,” Development, Africa’s First AI - Powered Robot Tour Guide

Uganda has unveiled the development of “Okello,”Africa’s first AI powered robot tour guide developed by the ZunoBottics Foundation to revolutionize the tourism sector. 

Unveiled during the launch of Miss Tourism Ugands 2026, this humanoid robot , developed entirely by a team of Ugandan engineers and innovators, represents an innovation that aims to strengthen tourism through locally developed, cultural, intelligent technology. 

Okello, also referred to as the Gold Pearl Guide, is designed to interact with tourists, providing information about local attractions in multiple languages, currently supporting English, French, and five Ugandan local languages, with ability to automatically detect and switch to a visitor’s language in real time. 

Beyond conversation, Okello is being programmed with comprehensive information about Uganda’s tourism offering, including its wildlife, culture, and attractions, such as the country’s more than 1.000 bird species, one of Africa’s richest destinations for birdwatching. 

Key Details about Okello and Ugandan AI Advancements: 

•    Robot Guide Features: Developed by local engineers, the robot serves as an interactive digital guide, able to communicate in multiple languages, including English. 
•    Developer: The project is spearheaded b ZunoBotics Doundation, an open – source robotics hub focused on local solutions. 
•    Significance: The initiative is designed to showcase how AI can be directly applied to enhance tourism and other sectors within Africa. 
•    Context of Innovation: This follows other major technological advancements in Uganda, including the development of a 100 – megawatt suopercomputer and AI factory at the Karuma Hydropower Plant, designed to foster a local, sovereign AI ecosystem. 

ZunoBotics founder Jonathan Ssemakula said the project demonstrates how artificial intelligence can be practically applied to strengthen the tourism sector, and the team is actively seeking partnerships and funding to expand the AI - powered robot tour guide’s capabilities.

 If successful Okello could eventually be deployed across museums, tourism centres and other major attraactions throughout Uganda. 

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/uganda-develops-ai-powered-robot-tour-guide-in-african-first.html

Indonesia | Minister of Culture Urged Museums to Digitize Collections and Strengthen Narratives to Attract New Generations

Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has urged museums across the country to modernize by digitizing their collections and strengthening their narratives, aiming to transform them to simple storage spaces into engaging hubs for younger generations (Gen Z ) and the public.

The Indonesian official said that museums should not only be containers of the past, but also notable cultural spaces and building the future.

During a visit to the Radya Pustaka Museum located in city of Surakarta, in the province of Central Javas, The Minister stated the development of the narrative component and the incorporation of digital elements that are crucial for museums to remain relevant and attractive to young people, especially “Gen Z”

The Radya Putsaka Museum, founded in 1890, cold be a starting point linked to this plan. The museum is one of the oldest in the country and houses a wide range of important collections, including ancient manuscripts, cultural artifacts from the island of Jawa, wayang (shadow puppets), keris (traditional daggers), traditional gamelan, music instruments, and statues from the Hindu - Buddhist era.

Currently there are 516 museums registered in Indonesia, 15 of which were inaugurated in 2025, a notable inventory to apply this strategy nationwide.

Key Initiatives emphasized by the Minister of Culture include:

·       Digitalization and Technology: Integrating digital tools to make historical narratives more accessible, interactive, and relevant to modern audiences.

·       Stronger Storytelling: Moving beyond just displaying objects to providing deeper context and engaging, immersive experiences that connect visitors emotionally to the past.

·       Modernization of Facilities: Improving exhibition layouts, presentation quality, and adopting creative approaches to curation.

·       Museum as a Public Space: Redefining museums as dynamic spaces for dialogue and learning rather than mere warehouses for old artifacts 

Th The initiative comes as a part of a broader government effort, following the inauguration of new museums and the revitalization of numerous sites.

Link

 hthtps://tvbrics.com/es/news/ministro-de-cultura-de-indonesia-inst-a-los-museos-a-digitalizar-colecciones-y-fortalecer-el-storyte/

Peru | Promoting the Circular Economy in Tourism to Grow without Damaging the Environment

Peru is promoting the circular economy in tourism to grow without damaging the environment, taking a strategic step by approving its Circular Tourism Economy Roadmap to 2030, a pioneering initiative in Latin America that redefines the tourism model in one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.  

The new strategy seeks to balance economic development with environmental protection, integrating sustainability, innovation and competitiveness through the tourism chain, according to information from El Maipo, news agency. 

The plan aims at boosting the tourism sector’s productivity, competitiveness, and sustainability, through a systemic, fair, effective, coherent, and coordinated transition toward circular tourism. 

In iconic destinations such as Machu Picchu or the Amazon Region, these measures are especially relevant due to the fragility of their ecosystems, as they seek to preserve biodiversity and minimize the ecological footprint of visitors to ensure that these places can continue to be enjoyed for future generations. 

The roadmap contemplates a direct economic impact of 1.200 million soles (approximately $324 million) on tourism GDP and the creation of around 31.000 jobs linked to sustainable activities, positioning tourism as a sector capable of combining economic growth with green job creation. 

From an environmental point of view, the roadmap sets out a clear ambition: to reduce up to 74 million of CO₂ and contribute to the conservation of more than 2 million hectares. Concrete measures include reducing waste, using water and energy efficiently, as well as promoting sustainable value chains. 

Key Features of Peru’s Circular Tourism: 

•    Waste and Resource Management: The sector emphasizes waste reduction, recycling PET plastics/packaging/glass, and adopting eco – design practices, particularly in high – traffic destinations like Machu Picchu. 
•    Energy and Water Efficiency: Initiatives promote the use of renewable energy sources and improved water management to enhance efficiency in tourism infrastructure. 
•    Sustainable Mobility: Implementation of electric vehicles and cleaner transportation solutions, notably in heritage sites. 
•    Regional Specialization: Tailored approached are used for diverse ecosystems, including coastal/marine waste reduction strategies. 
•    Local Community Involvement: Promotion of sustainable tourism that respects and involves local communities, such as those on the Uros Floating Islands, which was included in the Travel Green List ™ 2025. 
•    Biodiesel Generation: Waste oils are converted into biodiesel, demonstrating a direct circular process. 

With this initiative, Peru is at the forefront in Latin America by integrating economy, climate and competitiveness in the same strategy, demonstrating that is possible to grow tourism without putting at risk the environment.

Link 
https://tvbrics.com/es/news/per-impulsa-la-econom-a-circular-en-el-turismo-para-crecer-sin-da-ar-el-entorno/

Nigeria | Civil Aviation Authority Certifies First Female - Founded National Airline for Scheduled Flight Operations

Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued an Air Operator Certificate to Binani Air Global Services, clearing the first female - founded national airline to commence scheduled flight operations in one of Africa’s largest aviation markets. 

The certification, formalised at an approval ceremony which took place in the capital of the country, Abuja, was granted following the airline’s successful completion of Nigeria’s stringent regulatory requirements covering aircraft maintenance, crew training, operational procedures, and financial sustainability. 

Binani Air, founded by Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed, has become the first - female owned airline in Nigeria to receive an Air Operator Certificate (AOC), entering an industry where women in ownership and executive leadership roles remain underrepresented across the African Continent, marking a significant, historic milestone for female leadership in the nation’s aviation sector.  

Key Features of Binani Air: 

•    Leadership: Founded by Senator Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed and led by CEO Aminatu Dahiru Chiroma, making it the first airline in Nigeria with a female owner and female CEO. 
•    AOC Approval: Formally received the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in March 2026, transitioning from charter operations approved in July 2024 to scheduled passenger flights.
•    Initial Routes: Planned routes include Lagos as the main hub, covering domestic destinations, such as Abuja, Anambra, Kano, Maiduguri, and Port Harcourt. 
•    Safety Standards: The NCAA certified the airline following rigorous audits of its maintenance, crew training, and operational procedures. 
•    Fleet: The airline is operating with E170 aircraft. 

NCAA Director General Captain Chris Najomo welcomed the development as a significant milestone while cautioning the new operator that safety standards, professionalism and careful planning must underpin all operations from the outset. 

Nigeria’s domestic aviation market has faced capacity pressures in recent years, with several established carriers encountering financial and operational difficulties, making the arrival of a new certified operator like Binani Air, a timely addition for passengers and travel professionals alike. Route announcements and service commencement dates are expected in the coming months. 

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/nigeria-certifies-first-female-founded-airline-for-scheduled-operations.html

Hyatt Hotels Corporation | Announced the Opening of 190 - Room Hyatt Place Property in Nanjing, China

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, American multinational hospitality company based in Chicago, Illinois has announced the opening of a 190 - room Hyatt Place property in Nanjing, a major historical capital in Jiangsu province, features a blend of ancient Ming dynasty like the 600 - year - old city wall, scenic nature including Purple Mountains, Xuanwu Lake, and rapid modernization, a centre known for its role in history and offering rich cultural, educational, and culinary experiences along the Yangtze River.

The opening of Hyatt Place Nanjing Xuangwu marks the introduction of the Hyatt Place brand in the city and is part of Hyatt Hotels Corporation’s expansion strategy in East Asia and Chna’s key destinations.

The property positioned to serve both business and leisure travellers is l.ocated on Hongshan Road, adjacent to the Nanjing International Exhibition Centre in the Xuanwu District near the Homgshan Forest Zoo, with Zhongshan Mountain National Park behind the property and Xuanvu Lake nearby, comnected to major transportation hubs in the city providing an easy access to various routes and cultural landmarks in Nanjing.

The new establishment features 190 rooms, each designed with separate areas for sleeping, working, and recreation. Some room types include sofa beds.

Dining options at Hyatt Place Nanjing Xuangwu include The Kitchen, which serves a buffet breakfast and an à  la carte menu featuring international cuisine, Chinese dishes, and local specialties. The Lobby Bar offers coffee, beer, and a selection of wine.

Amenities at the hotel include complimentary Wi - Fi throughout the property, all - day dining., 24 - hour access to both fitness centre and self - service laundry facilities. Guests also have access to travel essentials for purchase, rental, or complimentary use.  

The property joins a select - service brand as Hyatt Place, designed for mid - to upper income business and leisure travellers, known for its modern comforts, offering a blend of spacious guestrooms with distinct work and rest zones, 24/7 convenience and a focus on style and innovation.

World of Hyatt members can earn 500 Bonus Points for qualifying nights at Hyatt Place Nanjing Xuanvu from April 15 to July 31, 2026, as part of a new hotel member offer.                                               

Links

https://newsroom.hyatt.com/Hyatt_Place_Nanjing_Xuanwu_Now_Open

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140650.html

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) | Unveiled the Opening of a New SeleQtions Hotel in Kanpur, India

The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), a hospitality firm part of Tata group and based in Mumbai, has announced the opening of a new SeleQtions hotel in Kanpur, the largest city of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, a primary financial and commercial centre of northern India, situated on the banks of the Ganges River, famous for its colonial architecture,  gardens, and formerly known as “Manchester of the country” due to its prominent cotton, woolen textile and leather industries.

The new Eternity, Kampur - IHCL SeleQtions, marks the brand’s entry into the city and is located on NH - 91, a major highway and vital link connecting Ghaziabad (near Delhi) to Kanpur, passing through cities like Aligarh, Bulandshahr, and Etawah.

Poitioned conveniently for travellers with proximity to Mandhana Junction (5 min drive), key landmarks like ISKCON Kanpur (8 min drive),  the property is a 65 - minute drive from Kanpur (KNU – Chakeri) Airport, offering an easy access to the major landmarks of the city.

The hotel is positioned away from the city’s central area, catering to corporate, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions (MICE) sector, and social segments.

The property features 114 neo - classical rooms with cityscape views, several dining options, including Céleste, an all - day restaurant; Thea, a bar seriving European - inspired cocktails with an exclusive cigar lounge; and Aurum the Lounge.

Amenities at the hotel include a fully equipped gym, swimming pool, and a spa. The property also offers event spaces, including banquet halls and meeting rooms, with the largest banquet hall spanning over 11.000 square feet, also ideal toi host conferences, conventions, and social events.

The new hotel joins the SeleQtions brand, a curated collection of properties known for their individual personality and special character, offering unique experiences and featuring a strong connection to their local context, historic lieange, design, or a distinct creative theme, appealing to experiential travellers.

The opening of Eternity, Kanpur - IHCL SeleQtions expands hospitality options in one of North India’s significant commercial cities.

Links

https://www.ihcltata.com/press-room/eternity-kanpur-ihcl-seleqtions-unveile

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140710.html

The Cooper, a New Luxury Hotel Has Opened in Charleston, South Carolina, U.S.

The Cooper, a new luxury hotel, has opened in Charleston, vibrant port city in the U.S. state of South Carolina, located on Charleston Harbor, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean formed by the confluence of the Ashley, Cooper and Wando Rivers, a charming and walkable coastal centre surrounded by beaches, national forests and golf courses with a very lively cultural and art scene.

The property, blending the city’s history and sophistication is located at 176 Concord Street along Charleston’s waterfront in the vibrant heart of the Charleston Peninsula next to Riley Waterfront Park, offering scenic views and proximity to downtown attractions.

The hotel design was led by Champalimaud Design, an award - winning design studio based in New York, committed to creating transformative spaces and unparalleled products.  Interiors feature light oak floors, shiplap wall panelling, and basket - weave textures.

The hotel features 191 rooms including 25 suites, many of them offering Juliette balconies or patios with views of the harbour and Charleston syline.

The Cooper features four dining venues. The Crossing is the hotel’s signature restaurant, with interiors by Meyer Davis and views of the harbour. Currentburger offers classic favorites, such as burgers, fries, fountain sodas, milkshakes, and ice cream, and includes a walk - up takeway window bordering Waterfront Park.

Cooper Coffee & Wine is an - day café located by the marina, serving coffee and breakfast during the day and operating as a wine bar in the evening. Bar Marti is a poolside bar and dining venue located at fourth floor, accessible to hotel guests.

The Cooper’s private marina is home to a fleet vessels, including a Hinckley yacht and custom Scout boats, which are available for guest excursions and exploring local waterways and beaches.

The infinity pool area features sun loungers, day beds, and cabanas, with food and beverage service from Bar Marti.

The spa at The Cooper measures 7.000 square feet and includes seven treatment rooms, relaxation spaces, a red light therapy room, cryotherapy loungers, experiential showers, and a Sanarium sauna.

The 24 - hours fitness centre is equipped with Escape HIT Rack, Assault Air Runner, and TechnoGym Machines. The property plans to expand its fitness offerings to include private training and a schedule of on - site and off - site chasess following its debut.

The hotel also offers more than 20.000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space. Facilities include a 4.000 square - foot Grand Lawn for events of up to 400 guests, a 5.655 - square - foot Ballroom with harbour views, a Salon for group of 10 to 100, and a Boardroom with river views.

Guests at The Cooper have access to sister property The Charleston Place and receive priority reservations at other outlets in the collection. Additional experiences available to guests include the Italian restaurant Sorelle and access to American Gardens, a community greenspace in downtown Charleston. 

Links

https://www.thecooper.com

https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article140657.html