A new venture, India Indaba, has been launched to help African tourism brands expand their footprint in India, capitalising on the potential offered by South Africa’s recently introduced Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS).
India Indaba aims to bridge the gap between African tourism brands and India’s leading tour operators and travel agents. The venture will offer tailored sales, public relations, digital marketing, event solutions and market insights.
The initiative is spearheaded by Jon Danks, former Chair of Star Alliance (UK) Marketing and ex-CEO of the African Travel and Tourism Association, alongside Pranav Kapadia, Founder and Director of Global Destinations.
Danks, who attended OTM – India’s leading travel trade show – in Mumbai between January 30 and February 1 to strengthen ties with Indian operators, emphasised that Africa is increasingly capturing the interest of Indian travellers.
“Compared to last year, visually, it is evident there is a much stronger presence here of operators from Tanzania and new, fresh investment from Uganda. For South Africa, a simplified visa process through the TTOS, coupled with stronger airlift connections, has potential to drive unparalleled growth, which inevitably has a halo effect on the entire region.”
Danks’ discussions with the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) President Sunil Kumar revealed growing optimism about Southern Africa’s prospects.
