Thursday, January 25, 2024
The much-anticipated Meetings Africa 2024 trade show is poised to inject vitality into the African business events sector, presenting a significant economic boost for South Africa. According to the country’s Tourism Minister, Patricia De Lille, who made this statement during the media launch at the Radisson Blu hotel in Sandton, Johannesburg, the event is set to surpass expectations.
Minister De Lille expressed her confidence in the forthcoming show, scheduled from February 26th to 28th at the Sandton Convention Centre, asserting that it will deliver heightened value to delegates and contribute positively to the global business events sector. Meetings Africa, renowned for bringing together exhibitors, buyers, and key decision-makers in the global business events arena, has become a coveted platform for industry players.
Anticipating a substantial impact, Minister De Lille projected the participation of over 350 exhibitors, 350 local and international buyers, more than 20 international media representatives, and over 3,000 delegates. Highlighting the success of the previous year, which contributed a staggering R388.5 million to the South African economy, the minister emphasized the show’s role in promoting Africa as a prime destination for business events and tourism.
Meetings Africa, characterized as a Pan-African trade show, is expected to host exhibitors from 19 African countries, showcasing diverse destinations and products to international buyers from 52 countries. Minister De Lille stressed the importance of the event in narrating the African story and fostering collaboration among nations.
Acknowledging the economic benefits extending beyond the host province, Gauteng, Minister De Lille detailed organized tours to small towns and villages, promoting inclusivity. The agenda includes activities for emerging entrepreneurs and small businesses, such as educational sessions, speed marketing, and a marketplace.
The panel discussion during the media launch featured industry leaders exploring the economic impact of hosting business events. Minister De Lille underscored the significance of collaboration among African nations to harness opportunities in the growing business events industry, emphasizing its potential for job creation and socio-economic development.
Highlighting the success of bid submissions for international meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions, Minister De Lille revealed that South Africa secured 16 bids for the 2023/24 financial year, with an estimated economic value of R71 million and the potential to attract 2,505 delegates.
The closing remarks emphasized the commitment to supporting local enterprises in the dynamic business events sector, with a call to reimagine, reinvent, and reignite success. The consensus among participants was clear: the business events industry holds substantial economic benefits, necessitating increased efforts for its growth.
Saturday, April 27, 2024
