By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 promises unparalleled value for delegates with tailored networking sessions, insights-driven panel discussions, speed marketing sessions showcasing new tourism products, a sophisticated match-making diary system, airline and Tourism Grading Council pavilions, and a wide array of products from across the African tourism sector.
One of the largest global tourism trade shows, is set to take place from May 13th to 16th at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC).
Drawing thousands of participants, including exhibitors from various African nations and buyers worldwide, the event is not only a platform for business transactions but also emphasizes capacity building and knowledge sharing, benefiting all attendees, including smaller and emerging businesses in the industry.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Honourable Fish Mahlalela, describes the significance of the event: “This show serves as the premier platform for showcasing Africa’s diverse tourism offerings and experiences. The trade show holds immense significance for the tourism sector and the broader economy. The economic and cultural impact of this trade show is central to the success of our continent.”
He said that a South African Tourism survey revealed that last year’s ATI 2024’s made a total economic contribution of R1.2 billion to the national fiscus which included a direct contribution to the South African economy of approximately R408.6 million and an additional indirect contribution of R776.4 million.
He also added that ATI 2023 created or sustained 2 295 jobs and contributed R75 million to the national government taxes and this year’s event is expected to make more.
Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 has already sold-out floor space. The participation of twenty-six African countries, solidifies its status as a proudly Pan African show. Furthermore, 120 SMMEs will be hosted at the Hidden Gems zone in collaboration with the Department of Tourism.
Preceding the main event is the Business Opportunities Networking Day (BONDay) on May 13th, offering invaluable networking opportunities, thought leadership discussions, and insights into global trends.
Partners for the event and provincial hosts, KwaZulu-Natal Tourism, have organized pre- and post-tours for selected delegates, including media and buyers, to showcase various experiences and products.
Siboniso Duma, MEC Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are excited to welcome Africa’s Travel Indaba back to KwaZulu-Natal again in 2024. Africa’s Travel Indaba plays a significant role in our tourism growth as KwaZulu-Natal and has immeasurable impact on our economy. Again, this year, we will have several emerging tourism entrepreneurs participating as part of the Tourism KZN, Tourism Enterprise Development Programme to afford them an opportunity to showcase their businesses and lock business deals to help them grow in the sector.”
Commenting on KZN’s readiness to host Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024, Duma highlighted the province’s accommodation facilities, stating, “The province has adequate accommodation establishments within a reasonable travel distance to the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, the venue for the event.”
The 2023 edition witnessed remarkable growth, with a nearly 62% increase in attendance and over 1033 exhibiting companies, attracting 8688 delegates from twenty-two countries and contributed (R 451 546 283) to eThekwini’s GDP and R 597 051 772 to KwaZulu-Natal underscoring the event’s significance.