The eThekwini municipality intends contributing R82.7 million over five years as the host of the Africa Travel Indaba (ATI) commencing in May 2026.

The municipality stated that the decision follows a rigorous and competitive procurement process led by South African Tourism, with Durban emerging as the ideal location to showcase Africa’s vibrant tourism offerings.

At the eThekwini executive committee (exco) level, councillors noted the significance and impact of the ATI Africa Travel Indaba in enhancing the local economy, tourism and the hospitality industry.

The committee mentioned that over the past five years, the event has grown substantially, attracting visitors from across the globe.

City officials noted that this growth has contributed positively to the municipality’s revenue collection and job creation. The extensive work undertaken to ensure that the municipality retained this event was acknowledged by city officials. 

At the December 2025 council meeting, the municipality outlined five benefits of hosting the ATI:

•  The event will contribute to the city’s economy, as local and international delegates from various parts of the world will be attending Africa’s premier tourism trade show.
• eThekwini Municipality, as the host city, will have an opportunity to leverage this platform by maximising the profiling of the city as a premier tourism destination in Africa and advancing the international image and awareness of Durban as a preferred destination.

• Destination Durban will have an opportunity to engage with key decision-makers, hosted buyers, tour operators and travel agents, with the aim of packaging Durban as a preferred holiday destination.
• The ATI serves as a platform to provide an opportunity for all nine Community Tourism Organisations, Tourism Small Enterprises and City Entities to showcase their unique offerings in the ATI Durban Tourism stand exhibition.
• The ATI provides platforms for local tourism businesses and industry to conduct business with hosted buyers and travel operators and keep abreast of global trends and new developments within the tourism and travel industry.

In September 2025, minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille said:

“We are proud to have Durban host Africa’s Travel Indaba in 2026. This event is more than just a showcase of tourism; it is an economic catalyst, a driver of job creation, and a strategic opportunity to position Africa as a premier travel destination on the global stage.”

eThekwini mayor councillor Cyril Xaba stated that this was a tremendous opportunity for Durban to showcase its unique offerings and strengthen its position as Southern Africa’s tourism hub.

“We look forward to welcoming industry leaders from around the world and creating meaningful business opportunities for local entrepreneurs and stakeholders,” Xaba said.

zainul.dawood@inl.co.za

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