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News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
World Ocean Day (8 June) takes centre stage at the conservation-focused Ocean Festival running Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast from 6 to 9 June 2024. Event organisers have just released the full Ocean Festival programme with events for all ages touching on themes of ‘Engagement, Education, and Economics’. “What started as a single World …
Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) is proud to announce its goal to reach 25 hotels in South Africa by 2030, effectively doubling its current portfolio. This ambitious expansion along with the Group's recent updates to its South African portfolio underscores its commitment to strengthening its presence and contributing to the growth of the South African hospitality industry.
Daniel Trappler, Senior Director of Development, Sub-Sahara Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, shared insights into the Group's strategic approach to reach its ambitious goal of 25 hotels by 2030, stating, "We are prioritizing, through either management or franchise models, conversions for quicker market entry and exploring strategic collaborations with existing management companies to increase our footprint, which presents the potential introduction of the Radisson Individuals brand to South Africa, an ideal first step for individual hotels with strong service scores who may be considering transitioning to one of our other successful core brands at a later stage. We are also seeking opportunities to expand our upper-upscale portfolio and enter the lifestyle luxury market in Cape Town with our Radisson Collection and art'otel brands, leveraging the city's strong tourism performance and our successful existing portfolio.”
Radisson Hotel Group has announced significant updates to its portfolio of operating hotels in South Africa, including:
The debut of its first Safari hotel in South Africa with the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit:
In February Radisson Hotel Group announced the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit (https://apo-opa.co/3Kwoqy0) its first Safari hotel and 13th hotel in South Africa. This property offers a luxurious safari experience in the heart of South Africa's wildlife region, with premium amenities and exceptional service. Boasting majestic views of the Drakensberg mountains, the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit is surrounded by endless destination-immersing activities.
“Building on the success of our recently opened Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, we plan to expand into safari and leisure regions like the Kruger National Park and the world-renowned Winelands region surrounding Cape Town. Additionally, we are targeting secondary cities displaying strong hotel demand generators such as Bloemfontein, Pretoria, Durban, and East London, following our successes in Port Elizabeth and Polokwane. In addition, we are also exploring entry into smaller tertiary cities and towns if it aligns with our expansion strategy,” added Trappler.
Extensive Refurbishments at Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg and Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town:
The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg (www.RadissonHotels.com), is undergoing a significant renovation, with 60% of the hotel's rooms already completed, enhancing the overall guest experience. This extensive refurbishment features upgraded wooden flooring, stone countertops, local artworks, carefully crafted furniture, and technological upgrades like smart TVs and conveniently located USB ports. This two-phase refurbishment project has already completed its first phase, with each floor and corridor renovated to showcase a new level of contemporary luxury.
The Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town (https://apo-opa.co/3Kvyebp) has announced its highly-anticipated refurbishment plans, reaffirming its commitment to offering guests world-class furnishings and contemporary interior design. Phase one is set to be completed by September 2024, with public Atrium and bedroom renovations expected in July 2024. An expert team of local and international designers has meticulously reviewed and handpicked the design, artwork, fabrics, and raw materials, ensuring an enhanced and stylish hospitality experience.
Rebranding of Park Inn Foreshore to Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore:
In April, Radisson announced the rebranding of Park Inn Cape Town Foreshore to Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore (https://apo-opa.co/3yVxYzK). This rebranding brings the renowned Radisson brand to South Africa's ‘Mother City'. Following an eight-month renovation, Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore's120 rooms now boast a fresh and modern decor that creates a relaxing environment for guests as well as magnificent views of the prominent Table Mountain and the city center. The hotel now hosts South Africa's first Filini restaurant, offering fresh, simple, and delicious Italian-style cuisine with an interactive open-plan kitchen setting. Additionally, the vibrant Harald's Rooftop Bar & Terrace provides an ideal spot to unwind with uninterrupted views of Table Mountain and the cityscape, complete with a perfectly positioned plunge pool for a complete rooftop experience.
“These significant updates to our South African portfolio reaffirm our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences across the country. Our ongoing growth in the region underscore our position as a leading force in the South African hospitality industry. This is just the beginning of a series of exciting announcements for our South African portfolio and the unmatched experiences guests can expect from our hotels,” concluded Sandra Kneubuhler, Country Director of Sales and District Director, South Africa at Radisson Hotel Group.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.
Connect with Radisson Hotels on:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3KrNeHc
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3Ku07R3
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4aNzAJg
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/45hQsH2
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3Vq1zu6
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/45hQuPa
About Radisson Hotel Group:
Radisson Hotel Group is an international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with over 1,350 hotels in operation and under development in +95 countries. The international hotel group is rapidly expanding with a plan to significantly grow the portfolio. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos.
The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.
Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.co/3Vu87Ij) is Radisson Hotel Group's loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.
Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.co/4aU1nHY) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely 100% Carbon Neutral.
At Radisson Hotel Group we care for people, communities and planet (https://apo-opa.co/45hQA9u) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved near-term Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as 100% carbon neutral Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics.
The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group's portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members.
For more information, visit our corporate website (https://apo-opa.co/45hQC16).
Don’t miss the four-part Wild Zambezi series on the big screen; tickets at R50 per episode. The mighty Zambezi River, the fourth largest river in Africa, plays host to an incredible four-part documentary series titled Wild Zambezi. Celebrating Environment Month in June, the docu-series will screen exclusively at select Ster-Kinekor cinemas around the country, with …
As the subtropical climate, natural beauty, and affordable property prices continue to attract investors to the KZN South Coast, estate developments are being constructed to provide secure, holistic living options. The multi-billion-rand Bahari Bay eco-estate in Shelly Beach has renowned architect and project manager, Vinodh Bridglall, on board, with a vision to emulate the real …
There were 6 018 new jobs created countrywide in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Global Business Services (GBS) sectors between October and December 2023 – 39% of which were in KwaZulu-Natal. In July 2023, it was reported that the sector contributed $74 million (around R1.3 billion) to the country’s export revenue. This is clearly …
Sustainably exploring the natural world, experiencing authentic culture, and improving self-wellness are just some of the demands of the modern traveller. On the exquisite KZN South Coast where natural beauty abounds, visitors are enjoying the best in 2024 travel trends, with exciting new tourism activities being developed every year. “The KZN South Coast is a …
Triumph for Zambian tourism sector as Zambia is named Best Leisure Destination in Africa in 2024 Global Traveller Awards Following the announcement that Zambia has been named as the Best Leisure Destination in Africa in the 2024 Global Traveller Awards, Laurie Burr, Complex General Manager at The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara, acknowledges this prestigious …
The ‘Greatest Shoal on Earth’ is set to arrive on the KZN South Coast shores in the coming weeks, bringing with it one of the best ocean spectacles. For those who haven’t experienced the Sardine Run before, South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) has put together this ‘Sardine Run Starter Pack’ to make things …
The KZN South Coast, extending from Umkomaas to Port Edward, presents lucrative investment opportunities, both locally and internationally. Through its collaborative approach, South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is working with stakeholders to identify and package these unique opportunities for investors. Deborah Ludick Manager, Acting CEO of SCTIE, said the entity is committed to …
SA tops African tourism index
SA tourism ranks high in tourism index on the continent
South Africa has ranked the highest in the African region on the 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) by the World Economic Forum.
“We are extremely pleased with this ranking as it affirms our commitment and work to elevate the significance and contribution of the tourism sector in South Africa,” Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille said on Thursday.
South Africa was ranked 55 among 119 countries and emerged as the leading country in the rankings for the African continent in the second edition of an index by the World Economic Forum.
The report, which was released earlier this week, revealed that South Africa is home to the largest Travel and Tourism Economy in Africa. It measures the set of factors and policies that enable the sustainable and resilient development of the travel and tourism sector, which in turn contributes to the development of a country.
In 2023, South Africa welcomed close to 8.5 million international visitors of which 6.4million were from the African continent. This represents a significant increase of 48.9% compared to 2022 arrivals.
During the first quarter of 2024 – January to March – South African welcomed 2.4million visitors from the rest of the world. This represents a notable 15.4% increase when compared with the same period in 2023.
“The tourism sector has achieved robust growth over the past year and this is due to closer partnerships and collaborations with the private sector to grow tourism to its full potential,” De Lille said.
In the 2024 Index, South Africa moved up seven places compared to its previous ranking and scored high for price competitiveness, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) readiness, natural resources and travel and tourism socio-economic impact.
“We are delighted by the growth and our mission remains to exponentially grow arrival numbers and the overall performance of the tourism sector. The sector already makes a significant contribution to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and job creation efforts but there is still so much more to be done.
“We have been working closer with the private sector and we are bearing fruit. I want to acknowledge and thank the tourism private sector stakeholders for all their hard work and collaborating with government to grow this exciting and important sector. The South Africa tourism sector’s greatest asset is our people and we will continue working to grow tourism’s contribution to the prosperity of people and the planet,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 05/23/2024 - 13:47
Media challenged to promote tourism within SADC region
Various stakeholders in the tourism sector have challenged media to use their space to promote tourism in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Region.
The call was made during a virtual panel discussion on tourism media opportunities in the SADC Region, hosted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and Brand South Africa, on Wednesday.
The panel discussion, which coincides with Africa Month, forms part of the series of conversations that will be facilitated by GCIS to showcase some of the success stories within the SADC Region.
Tourism Business Council CEO, Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, said while the numbers may currently look good in terms of the tourists travelling to South Africa from the region and the continent, given the effects of COVID-19, there is a need to do more to bring young people in the region back into the toursim industry.
“Our job should be to make sure the region itself is attractive to international tourists. It is important to ensure that as a region, we get together and pull together our resources.
“To be attractive to the world, we need our journalists within the region and within various countries to cover tourism in way that is appealing to the international markets, in a way that it promotes travelling from those countries to South Africa, and in a way that will increase the level of tourists that are looking into South Africa,” Tshivhengwa said.
Tshivhengwa said journalists should look at how the region is building in terms of various aspects in tourism development, including issues of socio-economic development, the impact of tourism on communities, and how tourism is helping with early childhood development in various communities by way of donations and other means.
“We need to look for those things and cover them as well. There are many projects that are being done by government to uplift communities close to tourism attractions. We need to keep in mind that... it is our responsibility to promote [our region].
“Look for those stories that may not be popular in terms of selling advertising space, so that we can put those out there because as more people come in, more jobs will be created and the more prosperous the region is going to be,” Tshivhenga said.
GCIS Acting Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa said South Africa is committed to promote and achieve the objectives of the SADC institution, and the region remains a foreign policy priority for South Africa to achieve regional development and integration.
Mnukwa said the tourism sector is considered as one of the cornerstones of the SADC regional economy, and the sector directly contributes around US$19.4 billion of the total SADC GDP.
“The tourism sector directly sustained around 2.5 million jobs in the region and a total of more than 6.3 million jobs depend on tourism, which includes direct and indirect jobs in the tourism sector.
"Travel and tourism is an important driver for job creation across the world, and our government is committed to partner with the stakeholders to invest in projects that work for people, the planet and prosperity,” Mnukwa said.
Mnukwa also echoed the sentiment that media plays a critical role in promoting tourism opportunities in the SADC region, noting that the sector has the potential to provide opportunities for all people, build resilience, and accelerate climate action and greater sustainability for the planet.
According to Statistics SA, tourism continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic levels and already contributes around 3.7% to the country’s GDP. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 05/23/2024 - 09:08
“Significant progress” recorded in Operation Vulindela reform initiative
Director-General (DG) in the Presidency Phindile Baleni says Operation Vulindlela has made significant progress in reforming the economy since its announcement nearly four years ago.
She was speaking during a media briefing aimed at providing an update on progress in the implementation of economic reforms through Operation Vulindlela.
Operation Vulindlela is a government-driven initiative aimed at accelerating the implementation of structural reforms in key sectors to achieve inclusive growth in the economy.
“Significant progress has been made in reforming our economy since the President announced the establishment of Operation Vulindlela in October 2020.
“Our economic challenges are complex and deep rooted. However, the progress that we have made in implementing the economic reforms through Operation Vulindlela give us confidence that they will be overcome. While the impact of these reforms may not be immediate, they will be significant.
Electricity
In the electricity sector, government has moved to do away with some barriers to private electricity generation – resulting in massive investment in that space.
“In the energy sector, regulatory changes have resulted in a massive increase in private investment in electricity generation with a pipeline of more than 22 500MW of confirmed projects in development.
“The reform of the energy system has now far advanced with the passage of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill and the establishment of the National Transmission Company of South Africa, amongst other key milestones.
“We are already seeing the impact of these reforms in reduced load shedding and in the proliferation of new energy projects across the country,” Baleni said.
Logistics
Regarding logistics, Operation Vulindlela is aimed at growing exports in the country through the improvement of efficiency.
“Greater private participation in port terminal operations has been enabled and the freight rail network is being opened to competition. These reforms will allow more volumes to be transported via rail and support export growth while making our logistics systems more efficient and competitive.
“The Freight Logistics Roadmap, which was adopted by cabinet in December last year, continues to guide the implementation of these reforms,” the DG said.
Telecoms and water sector
Baleni asserted that strides made through Operation Vulindlela in the telecoms sector are already bearing fruit with decreased costs in data just but one example.
“One of the earliest milestones in the economic reform programme was the completion of the spectrum auction – ending a more than 10 year delay and contributing to reduced data costs and improved network quality and reach,” she said.
Turning to the water sector, Baleni said reforms have led to the clearing of the backlog in water use license applications which stood at more than 1000.
“[The] license application system has been improved to reduce processing times. Concrete steps have been taken to strengthen institutions in the water system, to improve regulation as well as to encourage investment in the infrastructure,” she said.
Visa reforms
Government has also embarked on reforms for South Africa’s visa regime in order to attract skills and to encourage growth in tourism to the country.
“The e-Visa system is now available in 34 countries while visas have been waived for visitors from 135 countries. The recommendations of the work visa review task team, which was completed last year, are now being implemented including the establishment of the Trusted Employer Scheme and a points based system for work visas,” Baleni said.
Working together
The DG emphasised that one of the key drivers to achieving the progress that Operation Vulindlela has produced is collaboration.
“Perhaps the most important lesson of Operation Vulindlela is that we can achieve significant progress by enabling collaboration across government and putting in place clear, time bound plans and by establishing systems to support delivery and ensure accountability.
“More than 15 government departments and entities have contributed to the implementation of these reforms through new ways of working and a singular focus on implementation and results. Above all, this report demonstrates that government is fully committed to staying the course on the reform agenda and removing constraints on growth,” Baleni said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 05/22/2024 - 13:02
Boasting 11 top-class golf courses, the KZN South Coast has earned its title as ‘The Golf Coast’ while playing host to several major golfing tournaments. This year, from 4 to 6 September, San Lameer Estate welcomes the country’s top golfing stars vying for the top title at the relaunched South African Women’s Masters. Established in …
The vast and exciting KZN South Coast hinterland is just waiting to be explored, and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is making it more accessible with the establishment of a new rural tourism route. In May, the Emalangeni Experience was officially launched, extending the region’s rural tourism footprint and unique experiences. “Emalangeni is …
From gourmet cuisine and ocean-fresh seafood to sizzling shisanyama and sinfully delicious desserts, the KZN South Coast has something to suit every taste! Drawing on the region’s diverse culture, natural beauty, and abundance of organic produce, the KZN South Coast’s top eateries offer more than just great food, they offer an experience. Renowned American chef, …
Celebrate World Ocean Day (8 June) this year with clean-ups, water sports, live music, entertainment and so much more at Scottburgh’s Ocean Festival running from 6 to 9 June. Embracing this year’s World Ocean Day theme Catalyzing Action for Our Ocean & Climate, the event invites participants to celebrate the ocean while playing their part …
Southern Sun is delighted to announce that it has received the prestigious Gold Award for its exceptional stand at the recent Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024, the largest travel and tourism trade show on the African continent. The award, judged by a panel of external experts, recognises excellence in design, materials used, operations, and overall look …
From 25 June to 8 July, the world’s best surfers will head to KwaDukuza for the 55th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill. Connecting local heritage with the surfing Challenger Series, the 2024 theme This is the Battlefield – Lena Inkundla Yempi will see surfers battle it out for the top title, while spectators enjoy non-stop …
Makhanda, 20 May 2024 : Biodiversity, the rich variety of life on Earth, forms the foundation of the intricate ecological networks that support life. It is not only crucial for the environment but also for the tourism industry, which relies heavily on the allure of pristine natural habitats and the diversity of species they support. …
Government activities for the week 20 - 24 May 2024
On Tuesday, 21 May, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development will visit the Thornveld farm (portion 1 of farm Welgewagd 233 KB) located in Dwaalboom farming area near Thabazimbi, Waterberg District.
On Wednesday, 22 May, the GCIS in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and Brand South Africa invite members of the media to participate in a virtual panel discussion on tourism opportunities in the SADC region during Africa Month.
Also on Wednesday, the Electoral Commission officially launches the National Results Operation Centre (ROC) ahead of the upcoming 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
On Thursday, 23 May, the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation will be hosting a roundtable discussion on Perspectives on the 30 Year Review Report and the road ahead.
From Thursday, 23 May, to Friday, 24 May, the Department of Employment and Labour will be hosting a joint interdepartmental Jobs Fair in the Limpopo province.
Janine
Mon, 05/20/2024 - 10:20
KZN welcomes delegates to Africa’s Travel Indaba
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has welcomed delegates participating in the Africa's Travel Indaba, which is currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in eThekwini.
Taking place from 13 - 16 May 2024, 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 the country’s vast array of African leisure tourism products.
Welcoming the delegates at the official opening of Africa's Travel Indaba on Tuesday, Dube-Ncube said the trade show provides the ideal platform for African tourism exhibitors to showcase their offerings to international and local buyers, destination marketing companies and leisure tourism services partners.
“It is the most formidable platform on the continent for you to meet face-to-face with the most influential buyers in the world, and to gain access to Africa’s excellence and its endless possibilities. These are the business opportunities and quality connections that will shape Africa’s tomorrow,” Dube-Ncube said.
READ | KZN tourism entrepreneurs set to showcase province’s rich culture at Indaba
The Premier noted that this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba takes place at a time when South Africa is celebrating 30 years since the dawn of democracy, which ushered in a new era and assured our standing in the family of other nations.
“This milestone makes all of us gush with pride as South Africans when we consider the journey that we have travelled in moulding the country of our dreams. Today, we speak of a tourism industry that can hold its own at a global level because of our country's achievements,” Dube-Ncube said.
IMAGES | 2024 Africa's Travel Indaba
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As the tourism industry shows green shoots globally, she said one of the key sub-sectors the province wants to aggressively focus on is Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE).
MICE make up a big part of global business travel since every industry has regular events of some kind. The main goal is always to bring professionals together, foster connections, promote new ideas, and push growth.
“As a province, we will be at the forefront of ensuring that KwaZulu-Natal gets the lion’s share of the tourism market. As we all know, one of the biggest trends in the tourism environment is the blending of leisure tourism and business, known as 'Bleisure Travel' [blending of business and leisure travel].
“We would like to thank all of you for your continued support of Africa’s Travel Indaba. Indeed, Africa has limitless possibilities, and we must seize the opportunity to ensure that Africa’s time is now,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 05/15/2024 - 13:28
None of the 19 sewage treatment plants managed by the Ugu District Municipality is properly treating sewage released into rivers and lagoons
KZN tourism entrepreneurs set to showcase province’s rich culture at Indaba
As thousands of delegates attending Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2024 descend on Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, emerging tourism entrepreneurs participating in the event are set to showcase their businesses and the province’s rich culture and history.
The Travel Indaba, which kicks off from 13 to 16 May 2024 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC), brings together exhibitors from various African nations and buyers worldwide to showcase a collection of products from across the African tourism sector.
The event also emphasises capacity building and knowledge sharing, benefiting all attendees, including smaller and emerging businesses in the industry.
READ | SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba
The Travel Indaba is expected to be attended by delegates from 26 African countries, including 120 small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).
Among the KZN entrepreneur exhibitors is Nkosikhona Ndlovu, the man behind Amangonyama Tour Operator, a 100% Black-owned company in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
Ndlovu said his aim is to deliver safety, education, and unforgettable experiences for his clients attending the indaba.
“For me, Africa’s Travel Indaba is a huge opportunity to showcase what we offer and to engage with potential buyers from across Africa. I am hoping to make valuable connections and secure future business opportunities,” Ndlovu said.
Entrepreneur Msizeni Mngadi, who is the owner of Indlondlo Cultural Village in the Valley of a Thousand Hills, said he is passionate about introducing visitors to the Zulu culture.
Mngadi noted that Indlondlo Cultural Village is not just a destination, but a portal into the heart and soul of the Zulu people.
“Here, visitors have the opportunity to delve into the essence of Zulu tradition through guided tours of traditional homesteads, captivating displays of dance and drumming, and interactive activities that allow for a hands-on exploration of Zulu customs,” Ndlovu said.
IMAGES (Source: Africa's Travel Indaba/X) | Africa Tourism Indaba BONDAY discussions
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Danica Bartho, who owns Biweda Nguni Lodge and Tandweni Villa with her mother in the heart of Zululand, Northern KZN, said they are eager to showcase their projects to the world at ATI 2024.
Biweda Nguni Lodge offers a blend of comfort and affordability, with farmhouse charm, while Tandweni Villa offers a luxurious safari experience.
With a focus on empowerment and skill development, Bartho and her team provide a safe haven for previously disadvantaged women to flourish within the tourism industry.
“This [ATI] is not just about business, it is about forging connections, sharing stories, and opening doors to new opportunities and continuing our commitment to empowering women and promoting sustainable tourism,” Bartho said.
The ATI event kicks off with the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) on 13 May 2024.
BONDay is tailored to foster thought leadership and share global tourism insights under four streams: unlimited, discover, connect, and grow.
The day is crucial for advancing knowledge and exploring new opportunities in the tourism sector, offering invaluable networking opportunities, thought leadership discussions, and insights into global trends.
Welcoming Africa’s Travel Indaba back to the province, KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, said Africa’s Travel Indaba plays a significant role in KwaZulu-Natal tourism growth and has an immeasurable impact on the province’s economy.
“Again, this year, we will have several emerging tourism entrepreneurs participating as part of the Tourism KZN Tourism Enterprise Development Programme to afford them an opportunity to showcase their businesses and lock business deals to help them grow in the sector,” Duma said.
EThekwini Municipality Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson, Thembo Ntuli, emphasised the significance of the indaba for Durban, saying it is an instrumental platform for the tourism industry, which is firmly on the road to recovery.
“The show has become synonymous with the city of Durban, as we have hosted this critical tourism showcase over many years. The city’s economy will benefit immensely from hosting this three-day long trade showcase as hotel occupancy is expected to be between 85% and 95%.
“In addition, local tourism products and community tourism organisations are ready and eager to engage with buyers, tour operators, and travel agencies to continue selling Durban as the destination of choice,” Ntuli said.
The 2023 edition witnessed remarkable growth, with a nearly 62% increase in attendance and over 1 033 exhibiting companies, attracting 8 688 delegates from 22 countries, and contributed R451 546 283 to eThekwini's GDP and R597 051 772 to KwaZulu-Natal, underscoring the event's significance. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 12:26
Government activities for the week 13 - 17 May 2024
On Monday, 13 May, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala will lead a delegation comprising of built environment professionals and experts to the George building disaster.
Also on Monday, the Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, will lead the International Nurses Day commemorative event in Cape Town.
On Tuesday, 14 May, to Thursday, 16 May, the Department of Tourism will be hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban.
On Tuesday, 14 May, the Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga will deliver the main address at the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s passing out parade, where 410 newly trained traffic officers will become ready to save lives on the country’s roads.
On Wednesday, 15 May, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the memorial lecture on the life of Elijah Barayi.
Also on Wednesday, the Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga and the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, will undertake various road safety activations during a three-day visit.
On Thursday, 16 May, and Friday, 17 May, the Department of Employment and Labour will host a joint inter-departmental Jobs Fair in KwaZulu-Natal.
Janine
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:48