This photo taken on Aug. 10, 2023 shows the view of Johannesburg, South Africa. (Xinhua)
Johannesburg: South Africa's national tourism agency on Monday called on African countries to forge partnerships to boost the tourism industry and drive the continent's economic growth.
Gregory Davids, board chairperson of South African Tourism, the government's tourism marketing arm, made the call at the Meetings Africa, a Pan-African business and trade show that kicked off on Monday in Johannesburg, South Africa.
In his opening speech, Davids urged Africans to tell their own stories to the world and collaborate to grow the continent's economies.
"Let us build, collaborate, and forge a future where the story of Africa as a business travel and tourism powerhouse becomes an example for those who come after us. Every successful event hosted in Africa underscores our collective strength. It reminds the world that we are capable of hosting world-class, safe, mega-events of scale that will go on to boost economies and livelihoods across the continent," said Davids.
Davids encouraged attendees to use Meetings Africa as a platform to forge investment partnerships for the continent's future. "Through collaboration, innovation, and shared vision, we are building an Africa where business events don't just bring people together but create lasting economic and social impact. "
"Our international buyers are not just visitors, but part of the African story. They will meet visionaries, experience innovation, and witness firsthand how Africa does not just host conferences-- we create legacies," Davids added.
Davids said the event will have an economic impact on South Africa, adding that last year's Meetings Africa generated 7.63 million U.S. dollars in direct expenditure.
The three-day meeting, attracting 410 exhibitors from 26 African countries and 300 buyers from over 60 countries, is expected to see African countries engage in ways to improve the industry, share good practices, and explore ways of collaboration.
