By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The nineteenth edition of Meetings Africa officially kicked off today, with BONDay (Business Opportunities Networking Day), a crucial platform fostering strategic partnerships, industry growth, and business development.
The initiative provided industry stakeholders with the opportunity to exchange knowledge, explore investment opportunities, and shape the future of Africa’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry.
Delegates from over 60 countries participated, with first-time exhibitors from Morocco, Madagascar, Guinea, and Chad reflecting the event’s expanding reach.
Professor Gregory Davids, Chair of the South African Tourism Board, welcomed attendees, emphasising the MICE industry’s transformative role in job creation and economic growth.
“Every event we host is an opportunity to showcase our collective strength. For too long, others have controlled our story—today, we take ownership of our narrative. This is a story of strength and resilience,” Davids remarked.
He further emphasised that BONDay serves as a launchpad for collaboration, innovation, and global expansion, encouraging industry professionals to leverage networking opportunities to strengthen Africa’s business events sector.
The morning plenary session, focusing on the upcoming G20 Summit to be hosted for the first time in Africa, featured a dynamic discussion with key partners including:
- Sthembiso Dlamini, CEO of the Gauteng Tourism Authority
- Mpumi Mabuza, General Manager of Stakeholder Relations at Brand SA
- Glenton de Kock, CEO of the South African Association for the Conference Industry
- And Nombulelo Guliwe, CEO of South African Tourism (SA Tourism),
“Meetings Africa is deeply rooted in fostering connections and promoting business events across the continent. Our commitment extends to ensuring an inclusive industry that benefits all players, from small businesses to large enterprises,” said Guliwe.
The panellists echoed this sentiment agreeing that Meetings Africa not only highlights South Africa’s quality assured business events and facilities, but also elevates the continent’s global profile through its growing media presence. They emphasised that a thriving MICE industry drives economic benefits for local communities, creating opportunities throughout the value chain.
Looking ahead, Guliwe expressed optimism that South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Summit in November would further enhance global perceptions of the country.
“We believe the G20 Summit will reshape narratives about Africa, inspiring more people to visit, invest, and do business here,” she concluded.
With excitement building for the G20 and its lead-up events, Meetings Africa 2025 is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s global economic footprint.