Indaba 2024: Africa’s Travel Event Set to Boost Economy with R1.2bn Contribution

Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2024, set to take place from 13 to 16 May at Durban’s ICC in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), is gearing up to surpass the success of last year’s event. With 990 exhibitors from 26 African countries already secured and more expected to join, the trade show is shaping up to be a major gathering of industry professionals.

In addition to the exhibitors, over 1,000 buyers and 120 Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are participating in the event. Local hotels are projected to reach 85% occupancy rates during the ATI, further boosting the local economy.

Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela, and KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Siboniso Duma, highlighted the significant impact the upcoming ATI 2024 will have on both the provincial and national economies.

Themed “Unlimited Africa,” this year’s ATI celebrates pan-Africanism in tourism, showcasing the vast array of experiences and products available across the continent. Mahlalela emphasized the economic contribution of ATI, with the previous event making a total economic contribution of R1.2bn to the national fiscus.

Duma noted the value of ATI in providing networking opportunities for buyers and exhibitors, highlighting the province’s pride in hosting the internationally recognized travel trade fair. With 36 countries represented at the event, including newcomers Burkina Faso, Eritrea, and Guinea, the ATI is expected to further boost tourism growth in the region.

The economic benefits of the event extend beyond the ATI itself, with investments in KZN’s tourism sector expected to create over 570,000 jobs. The development of the Durban Bay Waterfront and other projects will transform the face of Durban and KZN, further solidifying the region as a premier tourist destination.

Overall, ATI 2024 promises to be a showcase of Africa’s diversity and growth in the tourism sector, highlighting the continent’s resilience and potential for collaboration and development.