INDABA - Programme of Events

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23 Apr 2025
12 May 2025
13 May 2025
14 May 2025
15 May 2025
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Wednesday, 23 Apr 2025
Time Schedule
09h00 - 12h00
Africa's Travel Indaba 2025 Media Launch
The official launch of Africa's Travel Indaba 2025
Durban (TBC)
Monday, 12 May 2025
Time Schedule
09h00 - 10h50
BONDay Opening Plenary - Mother Africa Earth / Umhlaba
09:00 - 09:05Opening remarks and introduction of SA Tourism CEOCarol Ofori (MC)
09:05 - 09:10Welcoming RemarksMs. Nombulelo Guliwe – CEO, South African Tourism
09:10 - 09:30Africa’s Excellence, Endless Possibilities: An African Journey of Resilience, Triumph, and Unstoppable SpiritCaptain Londi ‘Blaqmermaid’ Ngcobo First Female Dredge Master & Oceans Economy Business Leader
09:30 - 09:35AddressProf. Gregory Davids - Board Chairperson, South African Tourism
09:35 - 10:20Africa’s Voice at G20 – A continental collaboration for Future Tourism OpportunitiesJacqui Mabuza – Head of Commercial at Cruises International
Zimasa Vabaza - Dynamic Media Entrepreneur & Small Business Economist
Lethabo Sithole – Trade & Investment Lawyer, Pan- African Development Strategist
Dr. Vumi Msweli – Philanthropist, Author, Pan-African Most Influential Woman in Business
South Foyer
Registered Exhibitors, Buyers, Media and Stakeholders
09h00 - 13h00
BONDay Educational Sessions
09:00 - 09:05Opening remarks and introduction of SA Tourism CEOCarol Ofori (MC)
09:05 - 09:10Welcoming RemarksMs. Nombulelo Guliwe – CEO, South African Tourism
09:10 - 09:30Africa’s Excellence, Endless Possibilities: An African Journey of Resilience, Triumph, and Unstoppable SpiritCaptain Londi ‘Blaqmermaid’ Ngcobo First Female Dredge Master & Oceans Economy Business Leader
09:30 - 09:35AddressProf. Gregory Davids - Board Chairperson, South African Tourism
09:35 - 10:20Africa’s Voice at G20 – A continental collaboration for Future Tourism OpportunitiesJacqui Mabuza – Head of Commercial at Cruises International
Zimasa Vabaza - Dynamic Media Entrepreneur & Small Business Economist
Lethabo Sithole – Trade & Investment Lawyer, Pan- African Development Strategist
Dr. Vumi Msweli – Philanthropist, Author, Pan-African Most Influential Woman in Business
South Foyer & Designated Breakaway Rooms / Zones, Durban ICC
Registered Exhibitors, Buyers, Media and Stakeholders
11h00 - 13h05
BONDay Stream 1 - Maji / Water - Connect - Creating a Collective Vision for Africa
TimeSession
11h00–11h45 Unlocking Growth through Impactful Localisation Strategies - Aligning regional approaches for effective demand creation
11h50–12h30 Regional Collaboration: Uniting Forces to Catapult Africa’s Tourism Economy
12h35–13h05 Stream Wrap-up
South Foyer
Registered Exhibitors, Buyers, Media and Stakeholders
11h00 - 13h05
BONDay Stream 2 - Moto / Fire - Discover - Africa’s Enhanced Positioning Through Authentic Immersion
TimeSession
11h00–11h45 Transforming Travel: Crafting Authentic, Sustainable Journeys Through Experiential Travel - Eco-Tourism, Gastronomy & Wellness Exploration
11h50–12h30 Discovering Africa’s Hidden Gems: Unveiling Untapped Destinations and Unique
12h35–13h05 Stream Wrap-up
Room 12
Registered Exhibitors, Buyers, Media and Stakeholders
11h00 - 13h05
BONDay Stream 3 - Ardhi/ Earth - Grow - Powering Africa’s Tourism With Cutting-Edge Technology and Sustainable Innovation
TimeSession
11h00–11h45 Innovating for Tomorrow: Leveraging Technology to Propel Africa's Tourism Industry
11h50–12h30 Future-Proofing African Tourism: Pioneering Innovations to Lead on the World Stage
12h35–13h05 Stream Wrap-up
Room 21
Registered Exhibitors, Buyers, Media and Stakeholders
13h00 - 14h00
BONDay Lunch
Partake in a wide array of authentic South African and African cuisine whilst enjoying lunchtime entertainment.
Designated Venues
Registered Exhibitors, Buyers, Media and Stakeholders
14h00 - 17h00
Tourism Communicators Forum (TCF)
Meeting Room 12, ICC
By Invitation Only
15h00 - 17h30
BONDay Beach Clean-Up

After a morning of powerful conversations and connections at BONDay, we invite you to wind down with purpose and play at the BONDay Beach Clean-Up, taking place on the shores of North Beach.

This is your chance to connect with fellow changemakers, stretch your legs, and help us leave a positive footprint where it matters most – on our coastline.

Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GHroqt4TssmCa4xCA

North Beach, Durban (next to the life Guard House)
By Invitation Only
Tuesday, 13 May 2025
Time Schedule
07h00 - 08h30
TKZN Buyer Breakfast

Annual breakfast hosted by Tourism KwaZulu Natal as the Host Province of Africa's Travel Indaba.

TBC
By Invitation Only - Hosted Buyers
08h00 - 09h30
Speed Marketing Session 1 - Limitless Pursuits (Active Adventure and Coastal Beach Products)

The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa hosts Speed Marketing sessions designed to showcase eminent South African tourism products to buyers and media. Each session highlights a specific category of products and is structured around a dedicated theme.

Meeting Room 21, Durban ICC
By Invitation Only - Products, Hosted Buyers and Media
09h00 - 10h00
Africa's Travel Indaba 2025 Trade Floor Opening
The Official opening ceremony of Africa's Travel Indaba 2025. Guests are to be seated at 8.30am for a 9am start.
South Foyer, ICC
Ministry, NDT, Bid Parties, SAT, VIP's, Media, Exhibitors and Buyers
09h00 - 17h00
National Tourism Careers Expo Partners Meeting
Meeting Room 12, ICC
By Invitation Only
10h00 - 13h00
G20 Mobile Visitor Information Centre Meeting
Meeting Room 11 A, ICC
By Invitation Only
10h00 - 18h00
Exhibition Starts / Diary Meetings
Pre-scheduled appointments between hosted buyers and exhibitors
Exhibition Areas
Online Diary System / Exhibition Areas
10h30 - 12h00
Minister’s Walk-About
The Minister of Tourism conducts the official walk-about of the Africa's Travel Indaba exhibition floor. Exhibitors have the opportunity to engage the stakeholder in an intimate way.
N/A
N/A
11h00 - 11h30
BOMA Talks: Shaping Sustainability Session 1 - Redefining Sustainable Tourism for Africa’s Future

Exploring how African destinations can embed regenerative practices, community-led tourism, and responsible growth into their recovery and growth strategies.

Butterfly Wall - ICC Outdoor
Open Entry
11h00 - 12h30
TGCSA Stand (25 Years)

Celebrating 25 Benchmark properties with TGCSA

ICC105
All Delegates
13h00 - 14h00
Lunch - Vendors Trade from 12h00
Partake in a wide array of authentic South African and African cuisine whilst enjoying lunchtime entertainment.
Designated Venues
All Delegates
14h00 - 15h00
BOMA Talks: Media Editorial Session: Sports , Arts & Culture
Media Centre Presentation Room
Open Entry
15h00 - 15h30
Future Forward Session 1 - Beyond Recovery: Charting Africa’s Tourism Growth Trajectory for 2030 and Beyond

Unpacking emerging trends, digital disruption, and market shifts that will shape how African destinations compete and thrive in the global tourism landscape

Future Wheel - ICC Concourse
Open Entry
18h00 - 23h55
Welcome Networking - AFRICAN FAMfare

Step into the vibrant spirit of Africa and experience the authentic warmth of our continent at the AFRICAN FAMfare – a welcome networking event like no other. Join us for an unforgettable evening that brings together the bold flavours, timeless style, expressive art, and soulful sounds of Africa, all set against the cultural heartbeat of the Zulu Kingdom.

RSVP’d guests can collect their wristbands from the Guest Registration Desk located next to the escalators.

East Plaza, Durban Exhibition Centre
By Invitation Only
Wednesday, 14 May 2025
Time Schedule
06h00 - 08h00
Africa’s Travel Indaba Fun Run & Sunrise Yoga

An Africa's Travel Indaba Community-Building fun outdoor activity that attracts fitness fundis of every level. Join us for a great start to the day as we explore the sights and sounds of the host city.

Beachfront Promenade
By Registration Only
07h30 - 08h00
SANParks Panel Discussion: Conversations About Conservation

The CEO of South African National Parks (SANParks), Ms. Hapiloe Sello, cordially invites you to a panel discussion exploring national parks of the future, as we move beyond exclusionary models toward more inclusive and community-driven approaches.

Under the Vision 2040 theme: From Fortress Conservation to Inclusivity, this meeting of minds will bring together experts to discuss sustainable, equitable, and inclusive conservation.

Hilton Hotel, Durban
All Delegates
Yvonne Mokoena-Mohapi
yvonne.mokoena@sanparks.org
+27 79 038 9005
08h00 - 09h30
Speed Marketing Session 2 - Soul of Africa (Cultural Roots and City Lifestyle Products)

The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa hosts Speed Marketing sessions designed to showcase eminent South African tourism products to buyers and media. Each session highlights a specific category of products and is structured around a dedicated theme.

Meeting Room 21, Durban ICC
By Invitation Only
10h00 - 11h00
Media Editorial Session: The business of Tourism & Film in destinations

Hosted by KwaZulu-Natal Tourism And Film Authority

Media Centre Presentation Room
Open Entry
10h00 - 13h00
G20 Provincial Feedback Meeting
Meeting Room 11 A, ICC
By Invitation Only
10h00 - 14h00
Department of Tourism Stakeholder Engagement Session
Meeting Room 12, ICC
By Invitation
10h00 - 18h00
Exhibition Starts / Diary Meetings

Pre-scheduled appointments between hosted buyers and exhibitors

Exhibition Areas
Online Diary System / Exhibition Areas
11h00 - 11h30
BOMA Talks: Shaping Sustainability Session 2 - Greener Journeys: Innovations in Eco-Travel and Transport

Highlighting transformative solutions in low-carbon travel, sustainable aviation, and eco-friendly mobility that reduce environmental impact while enhancing traveller experience.

Butterfly Wall - ICC Outdoor
Open Entry
11h00 - 12h30
TGCSA Stand (25 Years)

Celebrating 25 Benchmark properties with TGCSA

ICC105
All Delegates
11h00 - 14h00
BOMA Talks: NTCE 2025 Business Networking Session
South Foyer, ICC
By Invitation
11h00 - 14h00
NTCE 2025 Business Networking Session
South Foyer, ICC
By Invitation Only
12h00 - 13h00
Media Editorial Session: Gastronomy
Media Centre Presentation Room
Open Entry
13h00 - 14h00
Lunch - Vendors Trade from 12h00
Partake in a wide array of authentic South African and African cuisine whilst enjoying lunchtime entertainment.
Designated Venues
All Delegates
14h00 - 15h00
Media Editorial Session: Township & Rural Tourism
Media Centre Presentation Room
Open Entry
14h00 - 16h00
Trusted Tour Operators Workshop with Home Affairs

The Department of Home Affairs in collaboration with the Department of Tourism have recently launched the Trusted Tour Operators Scheme, that provides improved visa processing and quality services for China and India.  This is a feedback workshop from the trade.

Meeting Room 21, ICC
By Invitation Only
15h00 - 15h30
Future Forward Session 2 - The Connected Traveller: Leveraging Technology and Data to Elevate the African Tourism Experience

Exploring smart technologies, AI, data-driven marketing, and seamless digital experiences to meet evolving traveller expectations and boost competitiveness.

Future Wheel - ICC Concourse
Open Entry
15h30 - 16h00
Tourvest Special Announcement
Media Centre Presentation Room
Open Entry
18h00 - 23h55
City Immersion Experience

Participating Restaurants

  • Dukkah
  • Maison on Florida
  • ZAI Precinct: Bean Bag Jazz Lounge
  • Dropkick Murphy
  • Hue Cafe
  • Gordon Park on Florida
Florida Road
Open Entry
Thursday, 15 May 2025
Time Schedule
08h00 - 09h30
Speed Marketing Session 3 - Wild Majesty (Scenic Outdoors, Wildlife, Safari and Camping Products)

The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa hosts Speed Marketing sessions designed to showcase eminent South African tourism products to buyers and media. Each session highlights a specific category of products and is structured around a dedicated theme.

Meeting Room 21, Durban ICC
By Invitation Only
10h00 - 17h00
Exhibition Starts / Diary Meetings
related industries - to support and nurture innovation.
Exhibition Areas
Online Diary System / Exhibition Areas
11h00 - 11h30
BOMA Talks: Shaping Sustainability Session 3 - Inclusive and Equitable Tourism: Putting People at the Heart of Sustainability

Championing socio-economic sustainability by fostering inclusive opportunities for local communities, SMEs, and cultural custodians across the tourism value chain.

Butterfly Wall - ICC Outdoor
Open Entry
11h00 - 12h30
TGCSA Stand (25 Years)

Celebrating 25 Benchmark properties with TGCSA

ICC105
All Delegates
12h00 - 13h00
Media Conference - Bid Party Wrap Up

A wrap-up of key highlights of this year's Africa's Travel Indaba.

Media Centre Presentation Room
Media, Bid Parties and SAT
12h00 - 13h00
Media Editorial Session: Astro Tourism

A wrap-up of key highlights of this year's Africa's Travel Indaba.

Media Centre Presentation Room
Media; Bid Parties, SAT
13h00 - 14h00
Lunch - Vendors Trade from 12h00
Partake in a wide array of authentic South African and African cuisine whilst enjoying lunchtime entertainment.
Designated Venues
All Delegates
14h00 - 15h00
The Africa's Travel Indaba Awards

Africa's Travel Indaba recognises its valued exhibitors for demonstrating excellence in the various awards categories.

Durban ICC South Foyer
Media and Exhibitors
15h00 - 15h30
BOMA Talks: Future Forward Session 3 - Unlocking Africa’s Tourism Potential: Empowering the Next Generation of Changemakers (Youth Focus)

Engaging young innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders in shaping a vibrant, inclusive, and tech-savvy tourism industry for tomorrow.

Future Wheel - ICC Concourse
Open Entry
17h00
Show Closes
A celebratory culmination of Africa's Travel Indaba 2025! Join the team as we say thank you for a great show. See you next year!
Exhibition Areas
All Delegates
18h00 - 23h55
City Immersion Experience

Participating Restaurants

  • 14 on Chartwell
  • Mushroom Lounge
  • Rockets/ Brown Sugar
Umhlanga Rocks
Open Entry