South Africa’s national tourism agency has called on African nations to strengthen partnerships to drive economic growth through the tourism sector.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, tourism levels across the world generally decreased as many restrictions put in place became the new norm. However, five years after the pandemic, tourism numbers have begun to pick up, including in South Africa where 2024 saw record-breaking tourist numbers.
Gregory Davids, board chairperson of South African Tourism, appealed earlier this week at the opening of Meetings Africa, a premier Pan-African business and trade show held in Johannesburg.
‘Let us build, collaborate, and forge a future where the story of Africa as a business travel and tourism powerhouse becomes an example for those who come after us,” Gregory said. “Every successful event hosted in Africa underscores our collective strength.’
The three-day event has drawn 410 exhibitors from 26 African countries and 300 buyers from over 60 nations, providing a platform for investment partnerships and industry growth. Davids urged attendees to leverage Meetings Africa as a space for collaboration, emphasizing the power of tourism in shaping Africa’s economic future.
‘Our international buyers are not just visitors, but part of the African story,” he noted. ‘They will meet visionaries, experience innovation, and witness firsthand how Africa does not just host conferences—we create legacies.’
Last year’s Meetings Africa contributed $7.63 million in direct expenditure to South Africa’s economy, and this year’s event is expected to generate further economic benefits while strengthening the continent’s tourism industry.
First published by: Getaway Magazine
