Lift-off for Africa’s Travel Indaba as the event is expected to land another pay-day for Durban and KZN

DURBAN is abuzz with economic optimism as the city hosts Africa’s Travel Indaba, an event that is expected to generate even more revenue than the R550 million it netted in 2024.

The Indaba injection comes fresh off the heels of the Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates derby that is said to have pumped over R90 million into the city's coffers,

The back-to-back pay-day events adds to Durban once again positioning itself as South Africa’s top destination for major tourism events.

Hosted at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, the Indaba brings together more than 1200 exhibitors from 26 African countries, 908 vetted international buyers representing 55 global markets, and media from across the world.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile opened the Indaba yesterday, encouraging guests to buy local products. "Tourism Indaba is platform for international business people to buy South African products. We are hopeful that this (Tourism Indaba) will result in positive investments," said Mashatile.

Speaking at the 'Durban KwaZulu-Natal Business Breakfast' held at the Hilton Hotel, a long-standing kickoff event for the Indaba, Reverend Musa Zondi, KwaZulu-Natal's MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, expressed confidence that this year’s gathering would surpass previous economic milestones.

“The devastation of the COVID-19 era is behind us, and tourism is making a significant comeback,” said Zondi. “The increase in international attendance reflects the growing interest in KwaZulu-Natal as a global tourism destination."

Zondi’s emphasised South Africa’s newly crowned title as the “Friendliest Country in the World,” in his address and he reflected on the sentiment of Minister Tourism, Patricia de Lille’s, when she said that “KwaZulu-Natal is a mirror of Africa’s warmth, resilience, and potential", and placed the province as the ideal hosts for Africa’s Travel Indaba.

He said the Indaba will also showcase 120 small and medium-sized tourism enterprises, including several local businesses, reinforcing the province’s commitment to inclusive economic growth. "These enterprises are given a platform to connect with international buyers and partners, further positioning the region as a hub of opportunity.

"Infrastructure readiness, consistent investment, and a focus on air connectivity are key drivers behind KZN’s tourism success."

Zondi reflected on King Shaka International Airport being recently named 'Best Regional Airport' in Africa at the Skytrax Awards, and said it was central to plans for increased direct international flights.

"Talks are underway with global carriers, including Air France, to secure routes from Europe and Asia."

Zondi also highlighted plans to revive and expand regional airports to accommodate high-end tourists, especially from Germany, the UK, and the USA, who seek safari and ecotourism experiences. Additionally, new air routes to India and the UK are under exploration, aiming to further boost accessibility.

He also reported on the progress made on the long-awaited cable car project in the Drakensberg’s Okhahlamba area—a cross-border tourism venture involving South Africa and Lesotho.

"Though coordination has been complex", Zondi assured delegates that significant strides were being made to fast-track its implementation.

Another development that Zondi drew attention to was the anticipated R2-billion Club Med Resort at Tinley Manor, scheduled to open in July 2026.

"This flagship resort will offer the first-ever beach and safari combination experience in Sub-Saharan Africa."

Ethekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba also extended warm welcomes to guests attending the Indaba.

DAILY NEWS