South African Tourism has roped in leaders of the travel and tourism industry to join an advisory panel to enhance the impact and success of its premier tourism trade fair South Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025.

In a press statement, South African Tourism says that comprising key industry representatives, this dedicated panel will meet weekly to address critical aspects of the show, working collaboratively to enhance its impact and deliver an even better experience for exhibitors and buyers.

“This initiative reinforces our commitment to partnership and collaboration as we drive decisions that represent and benefit the greater tourism sector, ensuring that Africa’s Travel Indaba remains a world-class business platform that drives real value for all participants,’’ says the tourism promotion organisation.

It adds that the panel will focus on key elements such exhibitor and buyer engagement, logistical efficiencies, programme enhancements, and overall event quality.

The members of the Advisory Committee include Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO, African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA), David Frost, CEO, Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA), Suzanne Bayly, CEO, Classic Portfolio, Andrew Camp, CEO, Sun International, a leading hospitality company, Dorcas Dlamini Mbele, Senior Director, Commercial Sub Saharan Africa at Marriott International and Martin Botha, CEO, Sense of Africa, a leading DMC.

South African Tourism says that the feedback, insights, and strategic guidance of the advisory panel will be instrumental in shaping a world-class event, ensuring Africa’s Travel Indaba continues to be a leading global trade platform.

David Frost

“It is a privilege to be part of the Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) Advisory Panel, representing the SATSA membership. This is a significant and visionary step towards deeper collaboration, ensuring that the voices of key private-sector stakeholders can considered. By channelling industry concerns cohesively and constructively, we can make ATI a world class event. Kudos to SAT COO, Darryl Erasmus and his team for the pulling a good panel together and let’s all work to make ATI hum,” says David Frost.

Dorcas Dlamini

“Africa’s Travel Indaba is a vital platform that highlights the diverse and natural beauty of our continent. The success of this event not only boosts tourism but also creates jobs for local communities and opportunities for entrepreneurs. Furthermore, it contributes to positioning Africa as a continent alive with great possibilities. I’m honoured to be part of this journey, contributing to the success of this important showcase,” says Dorcas Dlamini.

“Africa’s Travel Indaba has stood the test of time as an important annual show for our continent and will continue to do so! We are committed in our support as regular annual Exhibitors and as South African Tourism partners. It is our duty and privilege to ensure that we are present to showcase our award-winning products, services and destinations to the global buyers. We will see you there!” says Andrew Camp.

Andrew Camp

Martin Botha

“Tourvest’s inbound travel brands have been active in global source markets for decades, selling South Africa to the world.  South African Tourism plays a vital role in marketing this destination and there is no prouder time than when all stakeholders, local, regional and international, come together in Durban for Africa’s Travel Indaba each year. It has become an ingrained annual tradition on the tourism calendar. Tourvest is committed to contributing in any way that we can to makes this show a success and so ensuring that the travel world continues to gain valuable insights into South Africa’s diversity, culture, history and wildlife,” says Martin Botha.

Suzanne Bayly

“For 2025, Classic Portfolio is looking forward to another positive and productive Africa Travel Indaba. Our Classics stand is fully booked, and once again, we are proud to host all our members along with a few select partners. Together, they represent some of the finest privately owned camps and lodges from 11 African countries,” says Suzanne Bayly.

Kgomotso Ramothea

“I am honoured to be part of Africa’s Travel Indaba Advisory Panel. This is an opportunity to drive meaningful conversation that bring positive change and contributes to making ATI a success for the benefit of the African continent. I am looking forward to sharing insights, fostering innovation, and helping position Africa as a premier global travel destination,” says Kgomotso Ramothea.

Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 will take place from May 12-15 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban, adds the statement.