On the second day of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 in Durban, the continent’s leading tourism trade fair, enthusiasm and optimism filled the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban. With the theme “Shaping Africa’s Tomorrow Through Connection Today”, the event, which runs from 12 to 15 May, brings together 1,300 exhibitors, 1,000 hosted buyers and representatives from 27 African countries.
During the Trade Floor Opening Ceremony, South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, gave a speech reinforcing the importance of tourism for the economic development of the country and the continent. “In 2024, we will welcome 2.6 million tourists to South Africa, an increase of more than 6% compared to the previous year,” she celebrated.
Tourism as an economic engine
De Lille highlighted the strategic role of tourism in economic recovery and job creation. “According to data from the United Nations, tourism in Africa has already recovered to more than 96% of 2019 levels. We are the fastest growing regional tourist destination in the world,” said the minister, drawing applause from the audience.
She also reinforced the country’s ambitious goal for the coming years. “We want to increase the sector’s contribution to the national GDP. Our goal is to reach 2.8 million visitors and generate 24.3 million stays in 2025.”
The strength of connections
The spirit of the event, according to De Lille, is centered on global partnerships and connections. “We are excited that new destinations will be joining the show this year, including China, South Korea, Kosovo and Riga. This shows the growing strength of Africa as a destination of international interest.”
Experience beyond destinations
In one of the most emotional parts of her speech, the minister stressed that the African tourist experience goes beyond landscapes and attractions: “It’s about the people. The joy of our people is what enchants most. We want to show the world not only our places, but also our soul. ‘Joy is everything’.”
Intense programming
The fair runs until May 15, with programming from 10 am to 6 pm (with early closing at 5:30 pm on the last day). The first day was reserved for networking meetings. From the second onwards, visitors have access to the vast exhibition area, where destinations, tour operators and representatives of local governments promote their offers and news.
Continental integration and a promising future
In addition to the minister, other leaders highlighted the role of African integration. In one of the final moments, De Lille mentioned the joint work with the vice-president of South Africa, responsible for peacekeeping missions on the continent and social development policies. “We are committed to sustainable growth, justice and peace. And tourism is a bridge to all of this.”
Report: Mary de Aquino.