Africa’s Travel Indaba Best Yet: South Africa’s Minister of Tourism

Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom’s optimistic trade floor opening speech set the tone for what turned out to be, in his words, the best Africa’s Travel Indaba hosted yet. This year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba brought together over 6,500 delegates which included 1,033 exhibitors and 1,502 buyers at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC). Hanekom’s speech focused on the future of Africa’s tourism industry, saying that by 2030, the continent would be welcoming some 126-million international tourists. “Are we up to it? Yes, we most definitely are.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa made a surprise visit to the event, addressing the tourism industry and media delegates. Throughout his address, Ramaphosa emphasized the tourism industry’s importance in growing Africa’s economy and promoting a country’s identity. “Tourism is one of the most international industries as it showcases the country’s identity and offerings to the world. If you want to showcase what you produce, clothing, food and arts, tourism is that window all of us can present to the world.”

South Africa has been named best safari experience in Africa by the Safari Awards Africa 2019. South Africa won the award as it came out tops in 10 of the 18 categories of the Awards. The award is a differentiator for South African Tourism. “The importance of this award is that it sets us apart from all the other safari destinations as we have the unique advantage of being able to showcase our world-class ocean safaris with our incredible land safari offerings. Being awarded this prestigious accolade is a true honour,” said Bradley Brouwer, Head of Global Trade for SA Tourism. South African Tourism acting CEO, Sthembiso Dlamini thanked all involved for making Africa’s Travel Indaba a success. “We are extremely grateful for the efforts of our bid parties, agencies and suppliers who ensured that we hosted another awesome Africa’s Travel Indaba,” said Dlamini.

“TKZN hosted a tourist industry stakeholder breakfast where the MEC of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Sihle Zikalala announced the construction of an R1 billion new Beach resort on the KZN North Coast that will be opened in 2022, answering a long-standing need from the trade,” commented Phindile Makwakwa, acting CEO at TKZN. “We also welcome news that 14 private sector companies are coming on board to provide a global marketing campaign for the KZN Province, demonstrating confidence in our tourism infrastructure and diversified producing offering,” added Makwakwa.