Africa Travel Indaba expected to surpass 2024 figures, raise more than R300 million for KZN

MINISTER of Tourism Patricia de Lille has said that the 2025 Africa Travel Indaba (ATI) was expected to surpass the figures it drew last year and generate more than R300 million for the economy of KwaZulu-Natal.

- YOGASHEN PILLAY

De Lille on Wednesday announced that more than 1 200 exhibitors were confirmed for this year’s gathering taking place at Durban ICC on 13-15 May - a powerful testament to the vibrancy of the African tourism sector. She explained that this year’s motto transcended mere branding.

"It is the essence of this all-important gathering because Africa’s Travel Indaba is not just a trade show. It is a celebration of who we are," De Lille said.

"A declaration of what we believe. It is a declaration that we want to think and act without limits. It is a bold manifestation of the African tourism sector."

Reflecting on the events of previous years, De Lille highlighted that in 2024 alone, more than 9 000 delegates participated, engaging in around 24 000 business meetings that turned ideas into tangible action, generating R226 million in direct economic activity in Durban, alongside an impressive R333m reverberating across KwaZulu-Natal.