Durban – The beating heart of Africa's boundless future and economic ascent

AFRICA'S Travel Indaba (ATI) 2025 was more than just a tourism trade show – it was a celebration of collaboration, creativity and collective growth. Under the theme Unlimited Africa, the indaba encapsulated the essence of what Africa is and can offer the world from its rich heritage to its innovative travel and tourism experiences.

- MARYANNE ISAAC

On the third day of ATI, Durban Tourism, in partnership with CNBC Africa, hosted a compelling live panel discussion featuring leading industry experts. The session explored Durban's evolving role as a transformative platform for fostering continental growth, regional collaboration and cross-cultural exchange. The panel discussion also focused on tourism developments and inner city regeneration, with the theme being "Evolution of Durban -The pulse of unlimited Africa".

The high-calibre panel featured Ndabo Khoza, CEO of uShaka Marine World; Carlos Correia, CEO of Fundamentum Property Group; Dr Vusi Mazibuko, Executive Director for Community and Emergency Services at eThekwini Municipality; Bunny Bhoola, Chairperson of SATSA KZN; and Brett Tungay, Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (Fedhasa) KZN Chairperson. The discussion was expertly moderated by CNBC Africa business anchor, Zanele Morrison.

Catalytic developments

Westown Square is KZN’s newest shopping, dining and lifestyle destination in Durban’s Outer West, and opened its first phase in March this year. This multi-billion rand development will be phased over the next decade with integrated precincts and experiences that include commercial, logistics, medical, residential, retail and green hubs. Fundamentum Property Group is spearheading this nine-phase mixed-urban development. Correia said the next phase of Westown is underway and focus is now on sports tourism in the outer west region.

Sport tourism continues to grow as more visitors travel to Durban to watch their favourite sporting events. Dr Vusi Mazibuko believes that Durban, with its world-class sports facilities, is a destination of choice for major sporting events.