Durban is ready to welcome thousands of delegates from more than 20 countries, positioning the city as a leading tourism and events hub.
Image: Supplied
South Africa is gearing up to host one of the continent’s premier tourism trade events, with leaders across government and industry highlighting the economic significance of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 at its official media launch in Durban.
Speaking at the launch on Monday, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille underscored the central role of tourism in driving economic growth, positioning the sector as a key pillar of the country’s development agenda.
“Tourism policy is economic policy,” she said, emphasising that the sector is not peripheral but “central to economic growth.”
The annual event, which brings together global buyers, exhibitors and tourism stakeholders, is expected to once again showcase Africa’s diverse offerings while facilitating deals and partnerships.
De Lille confirmed that President Cyril Ramaphosa will officially open the event on 12 May, signalling high-level government support.
This year’s theme, Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy, aligns with broader continental efforts to expand tourism’s contribution to development, including initiatives linked to the African Continental Free Trade Area.
De Lille highlighted strong growth in domestic tourism, describing it as the “bedrock” of the sector.
“We’ve seen just between January and February this year, 2026, we’ve seen a 35% increase of domestic tourism compared to 2025, just in the first two months,” she said, attributing the surge to post-pandemic travel trends.
She also pointed to the growing importance of business events, noting that South Africa had secured 52 international conferences for 2026 after submitting 100 bids.
“The hosting of these business events pumps in millions into our economy,” she said.
Looking ahead, the country is preparing to host major global events, including a World Economic Forum “Mini Davos” in 2027 and the Cricket World Cup, further reinforcing its status as a global events destination.
eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba said Durban was ready to welcome thousands of delegates from more than 20 countries, positioning the city as a leading tourism and events hub.
“Africa’s Travel Indaba is more than an exhibition. It is a powerful platform that connects people, fosters partnerships, and drives growth across the tourism sector,” Xaba said.
He highlighted the city’s strong tourism performance, revealing that Durban attracted approximately 186,000 international visitors last year, generating R2.7 billion in direct tourism spend.
During the 2025 festive season alone, the city recorded around 1.2 million visitors, with accommodation occupancy rising to 77%.
“For Durban, hosting this event reaffirms our status as a leading tourism and events destination,” he added, pointing to the city’s infrastructure, cultural offerings and growing global recognition.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Reverend Musa Zondi emphasised the strategic importance of the Indaba for the province and the continent.
“Africa’s Travel Indaba is one of the most important tourism trade platforms on the African continent. It brings together the people who sell destinations, the people who buy travel experiences, the people who invest in tourism products, and the people who tell Africa’s story to the world,” Zondi said.
He added that hosting the event is not merely symbolic for KwaZulu-Natal but a critical opportunity to drive investment, create jobs and empower communities, particularly through initiatives targeting youth participation in the tourism value chain.
Dr Sibusiso Ndebele, chairperson of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the province’s role in positioning tourism as a driver of economic growth.
“We thank you for your leadership in positioning tourism as a central pillar,” Ndebele said, adding that the province remains committed to supporting initiatives that generate economic activity and expand participation across the sector.
With over 1,100 exhibitors, more than 900 buyers and strong international participation expected, Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 is poised to deliver significant economic impact.
Organisers say the event will not only promote the continent as a travel destination but also reinforce its reputation as a hub of innovation, resilience and opportunity.
BUSINESS REPORT