Durban's ICC is host to the Travel Indaba. Durban and Johannesburg will host major tourism events.
By Staff Reporter
Johannesburg and Durban have been confirmed as the host cities for South Africa’s biggest tourism trade shows, Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba, for the next five years starting in 2026.
The announcement was made by South African Tourism on Tuesday after what it called a “rigorous and competitive procurement process” that drew bids from several provinces. Johannesburg was selected to host Meetings Africa, while Durban will continue as the home of Africa’s Travel Indaba.
Minister Patricia de Lille congratulated both cities, saying the events would have a broader impact beyond tourism.
“These events are not just about tourism; they are about economic opportunity, job creation, and positioning Africa as a globally competitive destination,” she said.
Meetings Africa 2026, which will be the 20th edition, is scheduled for 23 to 25 February at the Sandton Convention Centre. Africa’s Travel Indaba will take place from 11 to 14 May at the Durban ICC (Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre).
Johannesburg Tourism Company chairperson Nandipha Zonela said securing Meetings Africa for another five years was a big win for the city.
“This demonstrates Johannesburg’s competitiveness as a global city. Joburg is honoured to remain the home and heartbeat of Meetings Africa – where Africa connects,” Zonela said.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, welcomed the decision to keep Africa’s Travel Indaba in Durban.
“This is a great opportunity for KZN to show the world that our province is an exceptional destination for both business and leisure. ATI also presents immeasurable opportunities for our emerging tourism entrepreneurs,” Zondi said.
Both Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba are Africa’s leading trade platforms for business and leisure, respectively, bringing together buyers, exhibitors, media, and stakeholders from across the continent and the world. Both events serve as critical economic levers, generating leads, promoting investment, and boosting intra-African trade and connectivity.
“We look forward to continuing our strong partnerships with both cities and the private sector for the next five years. We are committed to supporting the execution of innovative, fit-for-purpose trade shows that deliver real value for all delegates, whether they are buyers, exhibitors, or stakeholders across the tourism value chain. We’ll achieve these, together with the Tourism Business Council South Africa and the various stakeholders,” concluded Minister de Lille.
