SOUTH AFRICA – Registration for the highly anticipated World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025 is officially open.
This prestigious event, set to take place from April 9-12 in Cape Town, will bring together leaders from diverse sectors, including leisure, responsible tourism, LGBTQ+ travel, business travel, and tourism technology.
The event promises an unmatched opportunity for collaboration and meaningful connections, setting the stage for the future of African tourism.
Building on the global success of WTM events in London and Dubai, WTM Africa 2025 continues to deliver value through its innovative format. Hosted buyers, suppliers, and media representatives will engage in pre-scheduled meetings and networking sessions.
According to Megan de Jager, Portfolio Director for RX Africa, this year’s event theme, “Ignite Africa,” reflects the goal of sparking dynamic discussions and impactful collaborations across the tourism industry.
“We are bringing together established industry leaders, emerging voices, and innovative thinkers to create conversations that matter and shape actionable solutions,” said De Jager.
This year’s program features the introduction of “content clusters,” focusing on sustainable aviation, artificial intelligence in tourism, and next-generation marketing.
These clusters will combine keynote presentations, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops designed to address current challenges while spotlighting new opportunities.
In addition to these sessions, WTM Africa 2025 will feature an aviation conference addressing pressing industry issues, a tourism investment conference in partnership with JLL, and initiatives aimed at youth development.
A special focus on career pathways and leadership roles for young Africans will highlight the next generation of talent driving the continent’s tourism sector forward.
Cape Town’s role as a tourism hub
Cape Town continues to strengthen its position as Africa’s premier tourism destination, with WTM Africa playing a central role in this progress.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis emphasized the event’s importance in boosting the region’s tourism potential and economic growth.
“This event is crucial for unlocking the vast potential of African tourism. Its growing popularity highlights its significant impact on the industry,” said Hill-Lewis.
The success of WTM Africa 2024, which recorded a 53% increase in attendees compared to 2023, underscores the event’s importance.
With participants from 88 countries, it has become a key platform for industry newcomers, small businesses, and established players alike.
Ahead of WTM Africa, ILTM Africa will take place from April 6-8 at Cape Town’s Norval Foundation. This event, dedicated to luxury travel, will explore the role of art in creating unique and memorable experiences.
Featuring leading travel providers and influential buyers, ILTM Africa offers a curated experience for those in the luxury tourism market.
The future of African tourism looks promising, with significant growth projected in the coming years. By 2024, the industry is expected to generate US$23.37 billion in revenue, with annual growth rates of 7.5% forecasted through 2029.
Inbound travel numbers are projected to exceed 95 million annually by 2027, with revenues surpassing US$90 billion.
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