KwaZulu-Natal emerges as the new heart of Africa’s Travel Indaba

THIS CONTENT IS SPONSORED BY KZN TOURISM & FILM AUTHORITY

With Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) secured for the next five years, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is redefining how and where Africa meets, extending the benefits of business tourism well beyond Durban. The province is bringing high-end conferences, incentive travel, and deal-making experiences to every region, from the North Coast’s stylish resorts to the creative calm of the Midlands.

“Winning the bid to host Africa’s Travel Indaba gives us a powerful global stage,” says Sibusiso Gumbi, Interim CEO of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority (KZNTAFA). “But the bigger win is the impact on the wider tourism economy and the opportunities it creates for emerging entrepreneurs. ATI allows us to showcase both Durban’s world-class infrastructure and the authentic regional experiences that make every conference unforgettable.”

Durban ICC: A Global Hub with Local Energy

At the heart of KZN’s success is the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC), now officially recognised as the World Trade Centre Durban. This status connects the city to a network of over 300 global WTCs.

“This designation is a game-changer,” says Lindiwe Rakharebe, CEO of the Durban ICC. “It positions Durban as a trusted hub for tourism, business, and investment.”

Last year’s Indaba saw hotel occupancy in Durban reach nearly 90%, with restaurants, taxis, and local suppliers thriving. In 2024 alone, over 50 major conferences were hosted across the province, generating R4 billion in GDP, supporting more than 7,000 jobs, and driving R1.6 billion in delegate expenditure.

Business Backing the Momentum

“Africa’s Travel Indaba creates opportunities that reach far beyond Durban,” says Palesa Phili, CEO of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC. “It connects tourism and film stakeholders with international investors and strengthens KZN’s wider visitor economy. The ripple effect supports jobs, boosts confidence, and positions KZN as a dynamic hub for business and creativity.”

Jaya Naidoo from FEDHASA states that ATI’s influence covers the entire province, with hotel occupancy rates ranging from 75% to 90% and overflow demand extending to Pietermaritzburg, Zululand, and the Drakensberg. “It encourages repeat tourism, future conferences, and incentive travel — demonstrating KZN’s potential as a world-class MICE destination.”

The Numbers Behind the Growth

Tourism in KZN is thriving. In Q1 2025, the province attracted 1.9 million domestic trips worth R6.1 billion and 194,000 international visitors spending R1.5 billion. The business events pipeline for 2025–2027 includes energy, logistics, health, finance, and creative sectors, and aims to strengthen KZN’s share of South Africa’s growing MICE market.

Beyond the City

From Umhlanga’s luxury resorts and Drakensberg’s mountain retreats to the Midlands’ boutique lodges, KZN blends business with leisure, offering unforgettable incentive experiences and genuine cultural encounters.

The Takeaway

KwaZulu-Natal isn’t just hosting Africa’s biggest travel show — it’s hosting the future of business tourism. With World Trade Centre status, a robust MICE pipeline, and unmatched regional diversity, KZN has become the beating heart of Africa’s tourism, trade, and investment story.