Durban, South Africa — The heart of KwaZulu-Natal pulsed with purpose as Africa Travel Indaba 2025 officially opened at the iconic Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre. Running from May 13–15, this year’s theme, “Unlimited Africa,” set the tone for a reinvigorated vision of tourism on the continent — bold, borderless, and booming.
The opening ceremony was nothing short of electric, with South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille leading the charge. Together, they sent a unified, clear message to the world: Africa is open for business — and the opportunities are limitless.
📈 Record-Breaking Participation
This year’s Indaba saw unprecedented engagement:
The energy was palpable as 1,300+ exhibitors from 27 African nations — including first-time showings from Chad, St Helena, and Burkina Faso — connected with 1,200 vetted international buyers from 55 countries. That’s not just a trade show; that’s a continental movement.
Voices of Leadership, Vision of Growth
In a keynote packed with power, Deputy President Mashatile called the theme “Unlimited Africa” more than a slogan — it’s a declaration of intent. “This is an Africa unbound by old stereotypes, driven by its own ambition. Tourism is not just business — it’s transformation,” he said, noting tourism’s contribution of 6.8% to Africa’s GDP in 2023, with an ambitious rise to 10.4% by 2030.
Minister De Lille echoed the momentum with a bold 5-year roadmap:
Tourism jobs to grow from 1.84 million to 2.5 million
Domestic spend to increase by 25%
Tourism’s GDP contribution to rise from 8.8% to 10%
1 million extra international air arrivals annually
And the kicker? SA Tourism’s brand-new global campaign:
✨ “South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy” ✨
A heartfelt call to the world to explore the country not just for its sights, but for the soul-stirring stories behind them.
Business Officially Begins
The bell rang — literally. In a tradition as symbolic as it is stirring, the ringing of the bell marked the official opening of Indaba 2025. What followed was three days of deep networking, powerful storytelling, deal-making, and destination showcasing. From luxury safari lodges and eco-conscious operators to cultural experiences and small-town gems, “Unlimited Africa” came to life in every aisle, pitch, and partnership.
Africa, Ready to Rise
Indaba 2025 is more than an event — it’s a statement. A united continent is stepping boldly into the spotlight, with tourism as both an engine of growth and a vehicle for joy. From Cape Town to Cairo, Dakar to Dar es Salaam, Africa isn’t just ready for the world — it’s inviting the world to come experience its magic.
📣 Africa is open. Africa is rising. Africa is unlimited.
