Africa’s Travel Indaba kicks off in Durban, South Africa

The 2025 edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba is underway this week in Durban, South Africa, putting the spotlight on tourism products and accommodations across the continent and a range of destinations from A(ngola) to Z(ambia).

“Tourism contributes significantly to Africa’s GDP, directly and indirectly,” shared South Africa’s deputy president, Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile on stage at the opening ceremony for the event. “In 2023, travel and tourism contributed 6.8 per cent to Africa’s GDP. In South Africa, tourism contributes 8.9 per cent to our GDP and supports 1.68 million jobs.”

Presented by South African Tourism, Africa’s Travel Indaba is known as Africa’s leading tourism trade show. This year’s show features 1,300 exhibitors, delegates from 27 African countries and over 1,200 international buyers from 55 source markets around the world — including a Canadian delegation.

“The Indaba is a catalyst for inclusive growth, job creation, and sustainable development in tourism, not only in South Africa but throughout Africa. This year, Durban is the host city of Indaba and a symbol of momentum for the entire African tourism community,” said South African Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille. “Tourism in South Africa makes a significant contribution to the economy, creating jobs and independent livelihoods. It reaches parts of the country where there are very few other opportunities.”

de Lille also highlighted that tourism is a powerful economic driver in South Africa and across Africa.

“In 2024, South Africa alone welcomed 8.9 million tourists, and their direct spending contribution was R91.6 billion, supporting an estimated 1.6 million jobs,” she shared. “In the first quarter of 2025, South Africa welcomed close to 2.6 million tourists, reflecting a 5.7% growth compared to the same period in 2024.”

Notably, 75 per cent of South Africa’s international arrivals come from the rest of Africa so there is huge potential to grow the North American market.

“According to UN Tourism, in 2024, tourism in Africa saw a sharp rebound, with a 96 per cent recovery compared to 2019, positioning our continent among the world’s fastest-growing regional tourism destinations,” de Lille added.

Africa’s Travel Indaba is taking place in Durban, a coastal city known for its Golden Mile stretch of beachfront. Stay tuned for more coverage.