From Policy to Practice: The Real Impact of the Tourism Transformation Fund in Durban
Durban – In a significant push to reshape the landscape of South Africa’s travel industry, the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) has joined forces with the Department of Tourism to spotlight the success of black-owned enterprises. The partnership will culminate in the Tourism Transformation Fund (TTF) Investee Showcase at the Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026, held later today at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC).
This event marks a pivotal moment in the government’s strategy to drive inclusive economic growth. By launching three new beneficiaries and showcasing two established enterprises, the initiative aims to demonstrate tangible progress in policy implementation, specifically targeting the expansion of black participation across the tourism value chain.
Key Voices and Strategic Vision
The afternoon programme is set to feature high-level leadership, including a keynote address by the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Makhotso Sotyu. She will be joined by Mr. Mziwabantu Dayimani, Chief Executive Officer of the NEF, who will elaborate on the fund’s role in fostering enterprise development and job creation.
“The showcase forms part of government’s ongoing efforts to advance transformation, promote inclusive participation, and strengthen the competitiveness of black-owned enterprises within South Africa’s tourism sector,” the organizers stated.
The Showcase: Five Pillars of Growth
Media and industry stakeholders will have the opportunity to engage directly with the entrepreneurs driving this change. The showcase features a diverse geographic spread of businesses, ranging from hospitality giants to unique safari experiences:
- Galenia Hotel Group (Northern Cape)
- Hotel 164 (South Hill) (Northern Cape)
- Kgabo Safaris (North West)
- Yacoob Yachts (Tigresse Cruise) (Western Cape)
- Elangeni Lodge (Mpumalanga)
These five enterprises represent a cross-section of the country’s tourism potential, illustrating how targeted funding is unlocking new opportunities in regions previously underrepresented in the high-end market.
Event Logistics for Media
Members of the press are invited to attend the activation to capture stories of success and interview the beneficiaries directly.
- Date: 12 May 2026
- Time: 16:30
- Venue: Durban International Convention Centre (ICC), KwaZulu-Natal
- Location: Tourism Grading Council stand
The event underscores a commitment to not just funding businesses, but actively integrating them into the global tourism conversation, ensuring that South Africa’s travel narrative is as diverse as its people.
