KZN Tourism board chairperson Sbu Ndebele, MEC Rev. Musa Zondi, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille, eThekweni Mayor Cyril Xaba and MSC MD Ross Volk.
Image: Sipho Jack
As Southern Africa gears up for a major event on the tourism calendar, KwaZulu-Natal is set to welcome the prestigious Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) from May 12 to 14 at the Durban ICC.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille addressed industry professionals at the launch of the Indaba on Monday at the Nelson Mandela Terminal, describing the event as the heartbeat of Africa’s travel economy.
De Lille emphasised that the event, which will be officially opened on May 12 by President Cyril Ramaphosa, is more than just a gathering, but a vital platform for tour operators, airlines, and hotels to negotiate partnerships and establish valuable connections through which they can promote African tourism.
“Africa is open for business,” declared De Lille, echoing the summit's theme, “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy.”
She stressed that tourism is central to economic growth, asserting that policy decisions surrounding the sector must be considered essential elements of economic governance.
The Minister reflected on the importance of domestic tourism, which has surged since the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions. Dubbed “revenge travel,” this renewed interest in exploring local attractions has not only revitalised the tourism sector but has significantly boosted domestic travel figures.
Between January and February 2026, domestic tourism grew by 35% compared to the same period in 2025.
De Lille also highlighted the growing significance of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, announcing that South Africa has successfully bid to host 52 international conferences in the coming year, which will boost revenue and job creation across provinces.
One of the highlights will be the SADC Leaders Summit and the “mini-Davos” World Economic Forum gathering in Durban, reaffirming KwaZulu-Natal’s growing prominence as a hub for international events.
With 2024 statistics confirming that nearly one million direct jobs were created in the tourism sector, De Lille revealed her ambition to increase that figure to 1.5 million by 2029.
She added that tourism already contributes 4.9% to the nation’s GDP, affirming the sector's foundational role in supporting the country’s broader economic landscape.
Also speaking at the launch, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Musa Zondi, said the province is ready to host the event and reap its multiple benefits.
“We are not merely hosting a ceremony; this is about placing our province at the heart of Africa’s tourism growth,” said Zondi.
In the run-up to the event, more than 700 buyers have already confirmed their participation, with additional applications from 71 countries.
Nearly 600 exhibitors from 22 African nations are expected, presenting valuable opportunities for local tourism operators across the accommodation, transport, and culinary sectors.
In 2025, the event attracted over 10,000 delegates, achieved a hotel occupancy rate of 90%, generated a total spend of R232 million, and contributed R574 million to the city’s GDP.
“We must speak about tourism honestly. It is not just about photographs and hotels; it is about creating sustainable economic opportunities,” said Zondi.
The long-term benefits for both Durban and KwaZulu-Natal include immediate economic activity, enhanced market access, trade opportunities, and significant growth in tourism from both international and regional buyers.
Zondi added that KwaZulu-Natal has secured the rights to host the Indaba until 2030.
The five-year commitment is expected to bring stability to the province’s tourism strategy, attract thousands of guests annually, and generate an estimated economic impact exceeding $1 billion over that period.
As part of its 2026 promotional efforts, the tourism department will highlight various tourism routes — including the Midlands Meander, Zululand Heritage Route, and the Drakensberg experience — designed to appeal to international buyers.
eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Cyril Xaba, said: “Our city once again serves as host for this prestigious gathering, where we will showcase our rich diversity, vibrant productions, and warm hospitality to the world.”
He said the event represents not only Africa's vibrant tourism economy but also its rich cultural heritage, which is set to inspire new connections and foster collaboration among stakeholders.
Xaba encouraged delegates to extend their stay beyond the conference, urging them to explore the myriad opportunities and attractions that Durban offers.
“Our city offers a gateway to our youth, cultural heritage, and modern expression, alongside the warm waters of the Indian Ocean,” he said.
DAILY NEWS