Annisa Essack | kzn@radioislam.org.za
May 8, 2023 | 18:00 CAT
2 min read

Photo Credit: Durban ICC

Post-pandemic and after the KwaZulu-Natal floods – the Africa Indaba has returned to the shores of Durban – aiming to re-ignite the tourism sector and find ways to market the continent’s potential as holiday hubs.

The Indaba began today at the Durban ICC, and the province’s hospitality industry expected a significant economic boost. The event will run until May 11.

CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), Phelisa Mangcu, said they were delighted that the province could showcase its premium spots through Africa’s Travel Indaba.

Mangcu added SCTIE would use the event to host media and delegates on trips to explore the KZN South Coast.

With visitor numbers anticipated to reach levels comparable to pre-Covid-19 times, Brett Tungay, Federated Hospitality Association of SA (FEDHASA) East Coast chairperson, said the event would demonstrate the resilience and recovery of the travel and tourism industry.

The event brings together tourism stakeholders from across the globe, including travel agents, tour operators, hoteliers, airlines, and government officials.

Tungay added that despite the challenges faced by the industry in recent times, the 2023 edition of Travel Indaba had received an overwhelming response from exhibitors reflecting the renewed confidence and resurgence of the travel sector.

Presentations to be delivered at the Travel Indaba would provide valuable insights into emerging trends, sustainable practices, and innovative strategies for the future. Key topics to be discussed included digital transformation, responsible tourism, and the importance of collaboration to drive recovery.

Otto Kunene of the IFP and a member of the Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) portfolio committee said the Indaba would contribute to the economy’s growth. He added that hotels were almost fully booked, and he was optimistic that exhibitors would see what KwaZulu-Natal offers.

DA spokesperson on EDTEA, Heinz de Boer, said bringing potential visitors to South Africa was a positive move. Still, he was cautious, adding that hosting the Indaba does not guarantee boosted international visitor figures.