Tourism isn’t just about holidays. For South Africa, it’s jobs on the table, business for SMMEs(Small Medium and Micro Enterprises), and rands in rural areas, townships, as well as many corners of the country.
That was the message from Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, as she rallied the sector ahead of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026, calling tourism “a powerful economic lever” capable of reshaping the country’s growth story, also calling for stronger continental collaboration and increased investment in the sector ahead of the much-anticipated Indaba.
Speaking during a stakeholder webinar, Minister de Lille confirmed that South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, will open this year’s trade show, signalling national backing for the continent’s premier tourism platform.
De Lille said the webinar forms part of ongoing efforts to keep stakeholders informed, aligned, and confident building momentum towards the Indaba.
“ Tourism is one of the few industries that directly supports job creation, stimulates GDP growth, and uplifts communities across accommodation, transport, SMMEs, and cultural enterprises. It must be fully integrated into our broader economic recovery and growth strategies,” said De Lille.
Caption: Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille rallies the sector ahead of the 2026 Africa’s Travel Indaba
According to the Minister, South Africa acknowledges the importance of the entire African continent as the largest and most resilient source market, and that the Africa’s Travel Indaba provides that platform for advancing continental economic cooperation.
She said South Africa is working with regional partners to unlock easier movement of people, boost intra-Africa trade, and strengthen tourism partnerships through the AfCFTA(African Continental Free Trade Area).
“Africa’s Travel Indaba is more than a trade show. It is a platform to position Africa as a unified, competitive destination, particularly as it takes place during Africa Month and celebrate our shared identity and economic integration,” said Minister de Lille.
The Department of Tourism stated that South Africa is positioning itself as a leading global destination, offering world-class infrastructure, rich cultural heritage, and diverse travel experiences at competitive value.
According to the Department, the country’s tourism strategy places strong emphasis on experience-led travel and geographic spread, ensuring that lesser-known destinations, including rural and township communities, benefit from tourism growth.
South Africa’s proven capability in hosting global events further strengthens its appeal as both a leisure and business events destination, offering year-round opportunities for travellers and investors alike.
KwaZulu-Natal HOD(Head of Department) for EDTEA(Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs), Dr. Nkosenye Zulu, said the Africa’s Travel Indaba is a driver of economic recovery, a platform for opportunity, and a gateway to the world.
“ We are not just ready to host an event, but we are ready to unlock value. It allows us to tell the story of KwaZulu-Natal to the world: a story of culture, heritage, nature, and opportunity,” said Dr. Zulu.
The Mayor of eThekwini, Vusumuzi Xaba, said planning for Africa’s Travel Indaba 2027 is already underway, as Africa Travel Indaba goes through a revamp with the inclusion of sponsors and private partners, enhancing the destination’s global competitiveness, and empowering rural and township tourism enterprises.
“ As the host city for Indaba, eThekwini Municipality is committed to ensuring that every aspect of the event reflects our dedication to excellence and hospitality. The ATI(Africa’s Travel Indaba) has become a platform for local entrepreneurs and small businesses to gain visibility and access new markets,” said Xaba.
Minister de Lille has invited the public to bring forth ideas to contribute to the delivery of Africa’s Travel Indaba.
For streaming links, images, videos and further information, the public can join the Tourism Department’s National Multimedia WhatsApp Group via QR Code.
