President Cyril Ramaphosa today, 12 May, officially opened Africa’s Travel Indaba at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to growing tourism as a key driver of economic development, job creation, and continental collaboration.
Africa’s Travel Indaba continues to position itself as one of the continent’s premier tourism trade exhibitions, bringing together tourism leaders, exhibitors, buyers, media, and stakeholders from across Africa and the globe under the theme “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy”.
EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba said Durban is proud to once again host the prestigious event, showcasing the City as a leading tourism and events destination on the African continent.
Mayor Xaba said the successful hosting of Africa’s Travel Indaba demonstrates Durban’s capability to stage major international events and highlights the City’s world-class tourism infrastructure, warm hospitality, and diverse tourism offerings.
“The official opening of Africa’s Travel Indaba by President Ramaphosa is a proud moment for Durban and the people of eThekwini. This platform allows us to showcase our City, strengthen partnerships, and drive tourism-led economic growth that benefits our communities,” said Mayor Xaba.
The Mayor highlighted the City’s continued growth in various tourism sectors including business, sports, cruise, and leisure travel.
He noted that Durban continues to attract major international events while expanding its connectivity through new airline routes and increased tourism investments.
President Ramaphosa, in his address, emphasised the importance of tourism in advancing Africa’s economic recovery and integration.
He called for stronger collaboration among African nations to promote intra-African travel and unlock the continent’s vast tourism potential.
“The City of eThekwini has recently added two new attractions to its famous tourism offering. In March, we unveiled the statues of Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo here in Durban. This demonstrates the importance of expanding and diversifying our tourism offering, catering to a broad range of domestic and international travellers,” said President Ramaphosa.
The Indaba opening ceremony featured vibrant cultural performances celebrating Africa’s diversity and heritage, setting the tone for a dynamic programme of exhibitions, business engagements, networking sessions, and knowledge-sharing platforms over the coming days.
Africa’s Travel Indaba is expected to generate significant economic benefits for Durban through increased visitor spend, hotel occupancy, job opportunities, and support for local businesses and tourism operators.
The event will continue until 14 May, focusing on tourism innovation, sustainability, destination competitiveness, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation within the tourism sector.
Mayor Xaba welcomed all delegates, exhibitors, buyers, and visitors to Durban and encouraged them to experience the City’s rich culture, beaches, heritage, entertainment, and hospitality offerings.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.
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