Global hotel chains' top executives have expressed confidence in the Kenya market and are willing to invest. Such global chains include Wyndham, Emaar, Kempinski, Marriot and Radisson Blue among others.

"We are very excited about the development opportunities in Africa for 2013. We are seeing a lot of activity, especially in East Africa. We believe that a number of very exciting projects will open next year in that area, " said Bani Haddad, regional vice president for middle east and Africa, Wyndham Hotel Group said.

Bench Events, the organiser of Africa Hotel Investment Forum, consulted with a panel of top individuals three months after the conference to gauge investor sentiment and discovered a high degree of optimism for 2013 and beyond.