Yesterday (April 23) saw the official launch of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024. With just under three weeks to go, the show has 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.
Delivering the keynote address at the media launch, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Amos ‘Fish’ Mahlalela, highlighted that the show served 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.”
Set to take place from May 13 to 16 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC), the event draws thousands of participants, including exhibitors from various African nations and buyers worldwide. It is widely seen as not only a platform for business transactions but also emphasises capacity building and knowledge sharing, benefiting all attendees, including smaller and emerging businesses in the industry.
Preceding the main event is the Business Opportunities Networking Day (BONDay) on May 13, offering invaluable networking opportunities, thought leadership discussions, and insights into global trends.
Partners for the event and provincial hosts, KwaZulu-Natal Tourism, have organised 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, said: “We are excited to welcome Africa’s Travel Indaba back to KwaZulu Natal again in 2024. The province has adequate accommodation establishments within a reasonable travel distance to the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, the venue for the event.”
eThekwini Municipality Chairperson of Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli emphasised the significance of Indaba for Durban: “Indaba is an instrumental platform for the tourism industry which is firmly on the road to recovery. The city’s economy will benefit immensely from hosting this three-day-long trade showcase as hotel occupancy is expected to be between 85% and 95%.”
CEO of the ICC, Lindiwe-Rakherebe, said: “With our state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated staff, we are ready to welcome participants from across the globe and make Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 a resounding success.”
