Durban, South Africa – South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr. Fish Mahlalela, delivered a rousing speech at the 2024 Africa’s Travel Indaba Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDAY). Praising the event as a platform for “an Unlimited Africa,” Mahlalela emphasized collaboration and collective action as key to the continent’s tourism success.
The Deputy Minister highlighted Africa’s youthful population and its potential as a driving force. He commended BONDAY’s focus on fostering innovation and inclusivity, pointing to sessions like “The Future of Travel Through the Eyes of the Youth” and “Exploring Accessible Tourism.”
Mahlalela acknowledged South Africa’s 30-year journey of democracy and pledged to address existing inequalities. He expressed gratitude to organizations promoting transformation, including the South African Township and Village Tourism Association (SATOVITO) and Women in Tourism.
The Deputy Minister stressed the importance of small businesses, citing a dedicated discussion titled “SMMEs: The Heartbeat of Tourism.” He encouraged participation in sessions like “Stimulating Local Economies Through the Tourism Value Chain” to foster a sustainable and flourishing industry.
Mahlalela concluded by thanking attendees and urging them to fully engage with BONDAY and the rest of Africa’s Travel Indaba. “Let everyone from today begin to experience ‘Unlimited Africa,'” he declared.
