Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 (ATI2024) is a catalyst for collaboration that has the potential to advance fair trade, female empowerment, and sustainability. This is according to South African Tourism CEO, Nombulelo Guliwe.
“Let’s harness the power of tourism, not only to create lasting economic power but to cultivate greater understanding of who and what we are, thereby enhancing our destinations’ appeal and attractiveness to both domestic and international travellers,” urged Guliwe during her address to attendees at the ATI2024 event currently underway.
In his BONDay keynote, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Amos ‘Fish’ Mahlalela said: “It is up to us as Africans to open the world’s eyes to what we have to offer as a continent and take charge of the narrative, because only when we are proactive, will we control our destiny.”
He emphasised that there was no more opportune time to do that than at Africa’s Travel Indaba, which takes place during May – also recognised as Africa Month.
“Today, we gather not merely as representatives of businesses, but as catalysts of change, and architects of a future defined by co-operation and collective success,” said Mahlalela.
Mahlalela further noted that Government was cognisant of the inequalities that still existed in South Africa.
“Let us remain steadfast and unwavering in our commitment to mutual growth and prosperity for all the people in our country and the rest of the African continent.”
Africa rebounds
According to UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa, Elcia Grandcourt, Africa’s tourism sector has rebounded impressively, reaching 96% of pre-pandemic levels compared with 88% worldwide.
She added, however, that the continent was yet to fully harness the socio-economic benefits of tourism for its local communities.
“We need robust policies, strategies and innovative business models to help unlock the full potential of the continent’s tourism sector.”
Grandcourt said, in light of this, UN Tourism had rebranded with the tagline ‘Bringing the world closer’, with the objective of driving tourism as a powerful force for social and economic benefit.
“Under the realigned UN Tourism Agenda for Africa – Tourism for Inclusive Growth – we are committed to supporting member states and partners in harnessing tourism as a transformative sector for all,” she said.
