DURBAN– THE 17th Africa Travel Indaba has begun with earnest.
National Tourism Minister Fish Mahlalela, opened one of the biggest gatherings of travel enthusiasts, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC, Durban.
It will run from May 13 to 16, and coincides with 30-years’of democracy in SA.
Thousands of local and international guests packed the iconic ICC, with the deputy minister Mahlalela, opening the four-day gathering, with what is commonly referred as Bonday– a programme that features various speakers drawn from the tourism sector, business and communities.
Amidst the overcast weather associated with Durban and crispy wind, Mahlalela told delegates he’s proud of the fact that the exhibition stalls were all sold out.
“This is an encouraging sign that indeed SA is open for business, considering that more than 30 countries are part of this exhibition.”
When augmented this is economically viable and it shows indeed SA and Africa, is open for possibilities, ”says Mahlalela, who continued that we are to showcase the best of Africa, to share our stories, our landscape and our warmth with the world.
This is more than a networking opportunity; it’s a platform for action, for showcasing the power of tourism in strengthening our collective efforts,” he told delegates.
The role of (AI) in advancing inclusion, the future of travel through the eyes of the youth, and the importance of Small Businesses in the tourism sector will take center stage.
This will underscore the events action driven nature and its significance as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation.
Other key speakers included seasoned actor Dr Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha, Makhosazane Khanyile- SAT board chair, Jerry Mabena- chairperson TBCSA and Motsamayi Tourism Group, and Brian Mpono CEO at Oceans uMhlanga Development, and others.
Image (Deputy minister Fish Mahlalela, addressing delegates at the BONDAY as part of the opening of the 17th Tourism Indaba, held at the Durban, ICC, this morning).
