NOTE: This article has been updated to reflect the correct name of the MMC for Economic Development at the City of Johannesburg. 

Between April 1, 2023 to date, the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB) in conjunction with South Africa’s business event industry, has sourced and submitted 63 bids to host international meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions in South Africa between 2024 and 2029.

Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, made the announcement at the official media briefing and panel discussion for the launch of Meetings Africa 2024 – which takes place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg from February 26 to 28.

According to her, these 63 bids have a combined estimated economic value of R1.2 billion (€58m) and have the potential to attract 46 470 international and regional delegates to South Africa during the same period. 

Of these, South Africa has been successful in securing 16 bids (meetings, incentives, and conferences) for the 2023/24 financial year, which is excellent news for the economy.

These successful bids will bring in a total of R71 million (€3.4 million) between 2024 and 2025, as well as attract 2 505 international and regional delegates.

The SANCB invested R5.7 million (€280 260) for these bid submissions through its bid support programme, to attract business events that align with the national Government’s development priorities.

The Minister stressed that these conferences would also help to spread business events across the region, and that they would take place in various locations, including Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, Cape Town, Sun City, Parys, Skukuza and Potchefstroom.

Gauteng bids make headway

Also at the launch were key Gauteng business travel players who weighed in on the province’s efforts.

MMC for Economic Development at the City of Johannesburg, Nomoya Mnisi, said: “The Joburg Tourism Convention Bureau Team is exploring new horizons and forging partnerships that will redefine our presence in global tourism markets.

“Our support for local enterprises is unwavering, ensuring that they not only participate but thrive in the dynamic MICE sector. Together, let’s not just rebuild; let’s reimagine, reinvent, and reignite the flame of Joburg’s success in the world of business events.”

Gauteng Tourism CEO, Sthembiso Dlamini, noted: “Gauteng is poised to serve as the stage that reinforces better African connections through quality and meaningful meetings. This is not only our strategic intent but an integral part of Growing Gauteng Together through social compacting in our 10 high-growth sectors – one of which is business travel.”