Meet Sun International’s champion of Africa

Award-winning Sun International sales and marketing manager Didier Bayeye-Mbombo is tasked with bringing the group’s attractions to the continent

The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on countless industries, including travel and tourism, with sales and marketing professionals having to find alternative means to showcase the value of products and properties. It’s only due to the initiative of marketers like Sun International’s Africa Sales and Marketing Manager Didier Bayeye-Mbombo that strides continue to be made in these uncertain times.

The 44-year-old livewire landed the coveted Best Tourism Marketer in Africa gong at the African Marketing Awards for 2019, with the presentation postponed to March 2021 due to the pandemic. The peer-reviewed awards assess tourism activity, marketing promotions and sales, among other aspects. Bayeye-Mbombo says it is a special honour to be recognised by his counterparts across the continent and a meaningful accomplishment, both on a personal level and for Sun International.

“These awards were completely different from other platforms, where organisers select nominees. Names weren’t put forward – just categories. It was a pleasant surprise. It is tremendous to enjoy the support of so many countries in Africa,” he says.

In truth, the prestigious award had been coming for a man who has consistently exceeded expectations and revenue targets over the course of a storied 20-year career.