Product owners and buyers can still apply to partake at the Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 as registrations remain open. The three-day event has got the global travel industry already keen, judging by the positive response that has reached great heights so far, which prepares the stage for an extraordinary gathering of tourism professionals.
Hosted in the beautiful and vibrant province of KwaZulu-Natal, this proudly Pan African event which will once again bring together the global travel trade, is set to take place in Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC Durban) in Kwa Zulu-Natal from the 13th to 16th of May 2024.
The show boasts on gathering various role players in the global tourism industry, while also highlighting the celebration of the KwaZulu-Natal’s rich heritage. It has long been recognised as one of the top three trade shows globally, significantly contributing to the economic vitality of Durban and the broader KwaZulu-Natal province.
Acting Chief Executive Officer at South African Tourism, Nombulelo Guliwe attested that ATI had established itself not only as an event but as a beacon for the tourism industry, and that continually it has been a driving innovation and connection across the continent and beyond.
“This event is more than just a gathering but also a showcase of Africa’s diverse and dynamic tourism landscape, spotlighting the continent’s unique cultures, breath-taking destinations, and unparalleled hospitality.”
“We are excited to continue this legacy with our dedicated partners. Their unwavering commitment has been a cornerstone of this Pan-African show’s enduring success. Many countries on the African continent have amazing offerings, and at ATI, we are looking forward to showcasing more of these beautiful destinations”. she said.
Indaba 2023 was a hive of activity and engagement that successfully welcomed more than 8,600 delegates and facilitated an astounding 21,000 meetings between exhibitors and international buyers in 2023.
The exhibition showcased diversity and innovation, featuring 280 international buyers, 432 non-hosted international buyers, 41 local hosted buyers, 711 Local non-hosted buyers and more than 1000 exhibiting companies who represented an array of products drawing attention from various corners of the globe.
Acting CEO of Tourism Kwa Zulu-Natal, Mr Sibusiso Gumbi shared the province’s excitment to be hosting Africa’s premier tourism trade show once again in just a few months.
He further acknowledged that the prestigious event not only boosts the provincial economy, with occupancy levels for our hotels reaching well above 90% but also enables marketingthe province to top buyers from across the globe keen for exciting destinations to promote and sell to the customers.
“It also becomes a vital platform to showcase our new tourism developments and position our emerging tourism entrepreneurs as global players in the tourism sector,” said the.
“Our focus this year is on accessibility, geographic spread, and business to business meetings. Durban has international flights and through the work of Durban Direct, a committee that lobbies direct flights to Durban, we would like to increase the frequency and attract new international flights.
“In addition, we will showcase our destination through the different tours that will be on offer during Indaba to the different regions around the city outskirts. Indaba plays an enormous role in the advancement of the city’s tourism and economic development. This platform also allows us to showcase the latest tourism developments to international delegates including buyers.
We are looking forward to showcasing our newly launched Nelson Mandela MSC Cruise terminal in a bid to attract more vessels to dock in the city and partnerships,” said eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.
The 2023 edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba not only matched but significantly outperformed its predecessor, boasting 23,196 meetings compared to the previous year’s 14,362. The event hosted 21 African countries, reflecting its Pan-African spirit and commitment to promoting continental unity through tourism.
“We are excited to welcome Africa’s Travel Indaba back to the Durban ICC in May 2024. The trade show is a celebration of the vibrant tapestry of cultures, experiences and opportunities that our African continent offers. At the Durban ICC, we are honoured to host this gathering of operators, agents, and change-makers in the travel industry. Together, let’s explore new horizons, forge meaningful connections, and inspire a future where Africa’s beauty and diversity shine on the global stage.” Durban ICC Chief Executive Officer, Lindiwe Rakharebe.
