Scores of international delegates gathered in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, for the Africa Golf Tourism Convention at the ACSA Conference Centre. The event marked the first dedicated pan-African business-to-business platform for the continent's golf tourism offerings.
Convention Aims to Create Jobs and Investment Opportunities
The Africa Golf Tourism Convention aims to create Africa's first dedicated pan-African business-to-business platform, bringing together the continent's diverse golf tourism offerings. This unified and integrated ecosystem is expected to position golf as more than just a sport but as a potential engine for job creation, tourism, entrepreneurship, and investment.
Neo Peete, Founder of the Africa Golf Tourism Convention, described the event as a continental marketplace connecting golf, tourism, trade, and investment. She envisions international travellers seeing Africa as one interconnected golf journey, with itineraries that connect destinations, golf and safari circuits, golf and wine experiences, and golf and beach experiences.
Ekurhuleni Showcases Tourism Assets and Attracts Investment
For the City of Ekurhuleni, hosting the convention was an opportunity to showcase its tourism assets while attracting investment. Executive Mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni, Alderman Nkosindiphile Doctor Xhakaza, said the event has helped strengthen the city's destination marketing efforts and expose its tourism products to an international audience.
The Mayor also encouraged other African cities to take an interest in the emerging golf tourism market and participate in future conversations. Attracting investment remained one of the most important benefits of hosting events of this nature, according to the Mayor.
Gauteng Tourism Authority Seeks to Expand Local Businesses
The Gauteng Tourism Authority saw the convention as another platform to showcase the province while creating market opportunities for local businesses. CEO of the Gauteng Tourism Authority, Crizelda Venter, said exhibitors were presenting a variety of products and services, including businesses with the potential to expand beyond the local market.
Ms Venter also highlighted the need for access to markets for smaller businesses seeking to grow. She stressed that the Africa Golf Tourism convention was helping to keep golf tourism on the agenda while creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and SMEs.
Convention Continues with Keynote Sessions and Networking
The first day of the main conference ended with cocktails and networking, giving delegates an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and explore potential partnerships beyond the conference floor. The convention continues with keynote sessions, business-to-business meetings, destination showcases, exhibitions, and networking engagements involving tourism authorities, airlines, investors, golf industry leaders, and international media.
Source: Joy Online
