Deputy Minister Sotyu Launches 2026 Indaba with Call for Collective Growth
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – Africa’s tourism sector entered a new era of ambition today as the Honourable Deputy Minister of Tourism, Makhotso Sotyu, officially opened the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay), the dynamic prelude to Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026. Speaking at the Durban ICC, Sotyu framed the event not merely as a trade show, but as a strategic economic platform essential for the continent’s future prosperity.
Held under the theme “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy,” the opening ceremony coincided with Africa Month and the recent celebration of Mother’s Day. Sotyu used the platform to honour the resilience of African women and the pivotal role of communities in driving economic transformation.
From Recovery to Expansion
“The theme Unlimited Africa is both an aspiration and a strategic call to action,” Sotyu declared. Citing UN Tourism Africa data, she noted that Africa is now among the fastest-growing tourism regions globally, signaling a definitive shift out of “recovery mode” and into a phase of aggressive expansion.
However, the Deputy Minister warned that unlocking this potential requires a fundamental shift in approach.
“Africa’s opportunities are vast, but unlocking them requires collaboration over fragmentation, partnerships over isolation, and innovation over complacency,” Sotyu said.
She emphasized that the future of the industry lies in unlimited access, unlimited connection, and unlimited growth, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism reach the grassroots level.
Empowering MSMEs and Communities
A central pillar of Sotyu’s address was the critical role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Referencing World Bank statistics that highlighted tourism’s support for 357 million jobs globally in 2024, she argued that the sector offers the most direct pathway for local entrepreneurs to participate in the global economy.
“My hope is that BONDay inspires us all to think about how we get communities across our continent to see tourism not as a distant industry, but as a powerful local opportunity,” she stated. She pointed to the vital contributions of local guides, township experiences, food producers, and artisans as the backbone of a truly inclusive tourism model.
The Power of Sport, Culture, and Digital Innovation
Looking toward the future, Sotyu highlighted that innovation must lead the way. She specifically noted the transformative impact of digital platforms like TikTok on destination marketing, urging stakeholders to embrace bold storytelling to remain globally competitive.
“Africa must embrace innovation, technology, and bold storytelling to ensure our destinations remain globally competitive, culturally authentic, and future ready,” she advised.
The speech also placed a heavy emphasis on sport and culture as Africa’s greatest assets. From major international tournaments to music, fashion, and gastronomy, these sectors were described as powerful drivers of destination differentiation and economic growth. Sotyu argued that every cultural celebration and sporting event is an opportunity to deepen community value and position Africa as a dynamic global force.
A Call for Public-Private Partnership
Concluding her address, the Deputy Minister reinforced that sustainable growth cannot be achieved by government alone. She called for robust public-private partnerships, where governments provide the policy frameworks and infrastructure, while the private sector injects innovation, investment, and market agility.
As delegates, buyers, and media prepare for the next three days of high-level dialogue, Sotyu’s message was clear: Africa’s tourism future is brightest when the continent innovates boldly, collaborates intentionally, and grows together.
“Welcome to BONDay, where together we celebrate, innovate, and grow Africa’s tourism economy,” she said, closing with a warm Siyabonga and Baie Dankie.
Tomorrow, Tuesday 12 May, the spotlight will intensify as President Cyril Ramaphosa officially opens the full Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026.
