Africa's Travel Indaba 2026 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre is up and running.
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President Cyril Ramaphosa officially opened Africa's Travel Indaba 2026 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre on Tuesday, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to growing tourism as a key driver of economic development, job creation and continental collaboration.
The annual tourism trade exhibition has once again drawn tourism leaders, exhibitors, buyers, media and industry stakeholders from across Africa and around the world under the theme: “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy”.
eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba said Durban was proud to host the prestigious event again, describing it as an opportunity to position the city as a leading tourism and events destination on the African continent.
Durban Mayor Cyril Xaba is flanked by KZN's MEC for Economic Development Reverend Musa Zondi and President Cyril Ramaphosa.
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Xaba said the successful hosting of the event highlighted Durban’s ability to stage major international gatherings while showcasing the city’s tourism infrastructure, hospitality industry and diverse tourism attractions.
“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 Xaba.
The mayor highlighted growth in Durban’s business tourism, sports tourism, cruise tourism and leisure travel sectors, adding that the city continues to attract major international events while expanding connectivity through new airline routes and increased tourism investment.
President Cyril Ramaphosa speaking at the Africa Travel Indaba 2026 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
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In his keynote address, Ramaphosa stressed the importance of tourism in supporting Africa’s economic recovery and regional integration.
He called for stronger collaboration among African countries to promote intra-African travel and unlock the continent’s 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,” Ramaphosa said.
Africa's Travel Indaba 2026 in session at Durban's Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre
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The opening ceremony featured cultural performances celebrating Africa’s heritage and diversity, setting the stage for several days of exhibitions, networking sessions, business engagements and knowledge-sharing platforms.
Organisers expect the event to deliver a significant economic boost to Durban through increased visitor spending, hotel occupancy, job opportunities and support for local businesses and tourism operators.
The event runs until 14 May and will focus on tourism innovation, sustainability, destination competitiveness, entrepreneurship and digital transformation within the sector.
Xaba welcomed delegates, exhibitors, buyers and visitors to Durban, encouraging them to explore the city’s beaches, culture, heritage sites and hospitality offerings.