JOHANNESBURG, May 13 (Xinhua) -- Africa's Travel Indaba 2025 officially kicked off Tuesday in South Africa, with Deputy President Paul Mashatile calling for collective action to promote sustainable tourism across the continent.
Speaking at the event's opening ceremony in the coastal city of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, Mashatile highlighted Africa's rich cultural heritage and economic opportunities in the tourism sector.
According to him, tourism is projected to contribute 10.4 percent to Africa's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030, up from the current 6.8 percent. In South Africa alone, tourism contributes 8.9 percent to the GDP and supports 1.68 million jobs, with plans to increase this to over two million by 2030.
Africa's Travel Indaba is an iconic African leisure trade show, owned by South African Tourism, with the specific objective of creating market access for a vast array of African leisure tourism products.
This year's three-day event, held under the theme "Unlimited Africa," attracts some 1,300 exhibitors and 1,200 buyers from 55 countries, with a focus on promoting inter-African travel and breaking down barriers.
In his speech, Mashatile acknowledged challenges facing the continent, including political strife, poverty, unemployment, and inequality, which have led to widespread hardship and violence.
"These issues require our collective action. This gathering must confront these challenges and uncover enduring solutions. Africa can overcome any obstacle that stands in her path. However, the key to overcoming lies in our ability to work together," he said.
Mashatile emphasized that tourism serves as a significant economic engine, a catalyst for social change, and a cornerstone of inclusive growth.
"Therefore, Africa's Travel Indaba stands as a beacon of what is possible when we act together. It reminds us that tourism is not just about travel -- it is about connection, empowerment, and shared belief. It is about promoting each other's markets and harnessing what we have as diverse nations," he said.
"This gathering and those that follow ought to act as sparks for greater regional cooperation, enabling African nations to present themselves together as diverse yet unified destinations," he added.
The deputy president stressed the need to integrate technologies, innovation, and sustainable practices into the tourism strategies.
"We need to invest more in skills development and digital transformation for the tourism sector to thrive. We must foster innovation and sustainable practices to ensure long-term economic growth," Mashatile stated.
"Let us celebrate the bond that unites Africa, honoring the vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and the incredible people that make this continent shine with brilliance," he concluded. "Let us demonstrate to the world that Africa is ready for business."
