Leaders of top industry associations and tourism groups have been recruited to head an advisory committee tasked with guiding the successful execution of this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI).
In a press statement, South African Tourism said the committee will focus on exhibitor and buyer engagement, logistical efficiencies, programme enhancement and overall event quality. The committee will meet weekly ahead of the trade show in Durban from May 12-15.
The committee comprises:
- SATSA CEO David Frost
- ATTA CEO Kgomotso Ramothea
- Tourvest Sense of Africa South Africa COO Martin Botha
- Sun International Head of Sales Andrew Camp
- Classic Portfolio MD Suzanne Bayly
- Marriot Area Director: Sales and Distribution for Sub Saharan Africa Dorcas Dlamini Mbele
Expressing his excitement at representing SATSA’s private-sector members on the panel, Frost said: “This is a significant and visionary step towards deeper collaboration, ensuring the voices of key private-sector stakeholders can be considered. By channelling industry concerns cohesively and constructively, we can make this a world-class event.”
Botha emphasised the importance of the relationship between Tourvest – one of the continent’s largest tourism companies – and South African Tourism.
“Tourvest’s inbound travel brands have been active in global source markets for decades, selling South Africa to the world. South African Tourism plays a vital role in marketing this destination and there is no prouder time than when all stakeholders – local, regional and international – come together in Durban each year. It has become an ingrained annual tradition on the tourism calendar. Tourvest is committed to contributing in any way that we can to makes this show a success.”
The panel presents an opportunity to drive meaningful conversation that “brings positive change and contributes to making ATI a success for the benefit of the African continent,” Ramothea said.
“I am looking forward to sharing insights, fostering innovation and helping position Africa as a premier global travel destination.”
Camp added: “Indaba has stood the test of time as an important annual show for our continent and will continue to do so. We are committed in our support as regular annual exhibitors and as South African Tourism partners. It is our duty and privilege to ensure that we are present to showcase our award-winning products, services and destinations to the global buyers.”
Bayly said Classic Portfolio is looking forward to a positive and productive event. “Our Classic stand is fully booked and, once again, we are proud to host all our members along with a few select partners from 11 African countries.”
