South Africa’s national tourism agency has urged African nations to strengthen partnerships in the tourism sector to drive economic growth across the continent.
Speaking at the opening of Meetings Africa, a premier Pan-African business and trade event held in Johannesburg, Gregory Davids, Board Chairperson of South African Tourism, emphasized the need for Africans to take control of their narrative and work together to position the continent as a global tourism powerhouse.
Strengthening Africa’s Tourism and Business Event Industry
“Let us build, collaborate, and forge a future where Africa is recognized as a leader in business travel and tourism,” Davids said in his keynote address. “Every successful event hosted on the continent highlights our ability to stage world-class, safe, and large-scale events that contribute to economic development and livelihoods.”
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He encouraged attendees to use Meetings Africa as a platform to attract investment, foster innovation, and create a lasting economic and social impact. Davids stressed that international buyers attending the event are not just visitors but key players in Africa’s growth story, gaining firsthand experience of the continent’s potential in hosting business and tourism events.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
Highlighting the economic significance of Meetings Africa, Davids noted that last year’s edition generated $7.63 million in direct expenditure for South Africa. He expressed confidence that this year’s event, featuring 410 exhibitors from 26 African countries and 300 buyers from over 60 nations, would further strengthen intra-African collaboration in tourism and business development.
