Barely three months to hold, the 8th Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) and Africa Connects™ have generated significant interest among African tourism stakeholders. From September 2-4, 2026, industry leaders and innovators will gather at Meropa Casino and Entertainment World in Polokwane City, Limpopo, South Africa for the ATLF & Awards
The forum presents a distinguished lineup of global thought leaders, ministers, policymakers, and C-suite executives. These leaders will advance intra-Africa travel, promote sustainable growth, and encourage policy innovation
The event is hosted by the Limpopo Provincial Government through the Limpopo Tourism Agency, in partnership with Africa Tourism Partners (ATP), the AfCFTA Secretariat, and UN Tourism. While attendance is complimentary, space is limited, hence pan-African industry stakeholders are encouraged to register promptly through the ATLF Registration Portal to secure a place
The forum serves as a marketplace tailored to Africa’s regional dynamics, attracting delegates from across the continent and abroad. Attendees can access business partnerships, masterclasses, local sourcing, investment opportunities, and AfCFTA unified markets. This year’s forum offers several targeted benefits for hospitality and tourism businesses including: Tourism Investment, which will connect project developers with development finance institutions (DFIs), private banks, and international investors; direct business & partnerships that offer access to B2B platforms, exhibitions, and speed-marketing sessions, securing deals with Destination Management Companies (DMCs), tour operators, and Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), as well as boost intra-Africa travel growth by connecting with stakeholders to capitalize on rising demand for intra-continental tourism, and offering opportunities for positioning properties to attract travellers from other African nations.
Other benefits include: Advocacy, which allows for robust engagement with government officials, tourism boards, and policymakers to influence industry regulations and stay ahead of regional travel policies; while Capacity & Innovation will enable stakeholders to explore digital transformation strategies and learn to implement sustainable hospitality practices essential for guest retention
The stakeholders will also gain from brand recognition, amid visibility by entering the Africa Tourism Leadership Awards, which celebrate top-performing brands and organisations
Meanwhile, South African Airways and Kenya Airways are the official airline partners for ATLF 2026 and will offer discounted fares to registered international delegates. As space for B2B networking and masterclasses is limited, early registration is strongly recommended. Travel professionals, content creators, hospitality executives, and tourism boards are encouraged to register promptly to secure participation and join industry leaders in shaping the future of Africa’s tourism sector.
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