Address by Tourism Minister @Derek_Hanekom for the ringing of the bell to open the trade floor at Africa’s Travel Indaba in Durban https://t.co/Pt71uWvbCo #Indaba2018 #WeDoTourism #AfricaMovesYou pic.twitter.com/XRoSqp52Fm
— Dept of Tourism (@Tourism_gov_za) May 8, 2018
The Minister emphasised that while the continent only attracts 5% of the global travel market annually, this is an opportunity for the continent. “This is bad news that is good news because it means we can grow.”
He told the buyers present: “You are in a place of growth and opportunity. I encourage you to not only do business but also forge permanent friendships while you are here. Every deal you clinch creates jobs and helps us to address poverty and unemployment.”
He also encouraged the more than 600 media from across the world to tell Africa’s stories to the world. “Showcase our Indaba and take it to more than 80 countries here for the next three days.” This year’s theme is Africa’s Stories, Your Success and focuses on a united goal to deliver authentic stories to increase tourism to Africa sustainably.
We must be mindful of sharing the positive stories of our continent, as they will come in handy to inspire resilience in times of crisis. #Indaba2018 #AfricaMovesYou pic.twitter.com/EP4QydvkIi
— Travel Indaba (@travel_indaba) May 9, 2018
The CEO of South African Tourism, Sisa Ntshona, called the trade show the leading travel exhibition in the world. “Over the next three days, we look forward to hosting you and ensuring that we provide the necessary platforms to grow your business and create opportunities for Africa to shine in the travel and tourism industry.”
With the Mandela Centenary Celebrations taking centre stage at this year’s Indaba, the Minister also drew attention to the Madiba shirt he was wearing. “I was served in the first cabinet of Madiba and over time he stopped wearing suits and wore these shirts, now called Madiba shirts.”
The centrepiece of our #Indaba2018 stand this year is a tribute to the Nelson Mandela Centenary. An installation of 100, one of a kind post cards displaying 100 ways to find the Nelson Mandela in you are on display and available for you to take home. #Indaba2018 #bethelegacy pic.twitter.com/MM4PfXlxup
— SATravelTrade (@SATravelTrade) May 8, 2018
South African Tourism have identified 100 experiences, attractions and destinations around South Africa that have strong historical and social ties to Madiba’s life. This showcase of South Africa and Nelson Mandela's memory can be found on the Madiba's Journey App.
