In 2026, Meetings Africa celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of shaping and strengthening Africa’s business events landscape. Owned by South African Tourism, the flagship trade show has become the continent’s premier market access platform, connecting Africa’s business events products with influential buyers from around the world. Over the past 20 years, Meetings Africa has played a pivotal role in driving economic growth, fostering partnerships, and positioning the continent as a competitive global destination for conferences, exhibitions, and incentives. As it reaches this milestone, the focus turns to its legacy of impact and its vision for the future of Africa’s thriving MICE industry.

Bongi Gwala is in conversation with Thandiwe Mathibela, Acting Chief Marketing Officer, South African Tourism