TBM Staff - Mumbai
Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 commenced on May 14, inaugurated by South Africa’s Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille. Held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre (ICC) in Durban, this significant trade show brought together key delegates from around the globe to engage in business with Africa. Preceding the main event, the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) on May 13th, featuring South Africa’s Deputy Minister Fish Mahlalela as the keynote speaker, set the stage for the exchange of insights, ideas, and partnerships.
Themed “Unlimited Africa,” the Africa Travel Indaba provided buyers with the opportunity to directly engage with over 1,261 exhibitors from 25 African countries and over 1,000 buyers from 55 countries. This interaction aimed to explore new business opportunities and foster mutual connections. The event also hosted thought leaders, decision-makers, and representatives from African countries, including Zimbabwe, Zambia, Lesotho, and Swaziland, with Guinea and Eritrea participating for the first time.
To strengthen its presence in the Indian tourism market, South African Tourism hosted over 40 trade partners, with 95% representing tier 2 and tier 3 cities. Beyond business discussions, Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024, held in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, showcased new regions and captivating offerings across South African provinces. Recognizing the growth potential beyond Indian metro cities, the tourism board aims to welcome 100,000 Indian travellers to South Africa in 2024.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille also emphasised the relaunch of the R1.2 billion Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) by the Department of Tourism to support the growth of emerging tourism enterprises. She noted that Africa’s Travel Indaba contributed between R22 million and R260 million per year to the province’s GDP from 2004 to 2022, amounting to a R3 billion impact.
Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 not only facilitated business transactions but also acted as a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and growth in the tourism sector. As South Africa continues to position itself as a premier tourist destination, events like Africa’s Travel Indaba play a crucial role in driving sustainable tourism development and fostering global partnerships.
