Polokwane, the capital of Limpopo Province in South Africa, will host Pan-African tourism leaders from 2 to 4 September 2026, for the 8th Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) & Awards. The event is organised by Africa Tourism Partners (ATP) in collaboration with key continental and international stakeholders and is expected to attract policymakers, investors and tourism industry players from across Africa and beyond.
As South Africa’s premier sustainable tourism province, Limpopo offers a compelling backdrop for the event. Home to the iconic Kruger National Park and some of the world’s leading nature reserves, the province is recognised for its strong conservation ethos and authentic African experiences, making it an ideal host destination for a forum centred on sustainability and growth.
The ATLF will bring together key voices in the tourism sector to engage on critical issues such as sustainable tourism development, intra-African travel, and investment opportunities. As one of the continent’s flagship tourism platforms, the forum continues to drive meaningful dialogue and action that supports the transformation and competitiveness of Africa’s tourism industry.
The selection of Limpopo as the 2026 host highlights a strategic commitment to advancing green tourism and unlocking investment potential across the continent. By spotlighting a destination deeply rooted in conservation and community-based tourism, the forum reinforces sustainability as a core pillar of Africa’s tourism growth. Strategic partners supporting the event include the UN World Tourism Organisation, the AfCFTA Secretariat, BDO, and the Africa Tourism Private Sector Alliance (ATPSA).
Building on the success of previous editions held in Ghana, Rwanda and Botswana, the move to Polokwane reflects a deliberate effort to strengthen regional integration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Positioned as a gateway to Southern Africa, the city offers a unique blend of world-class MICE infrastructure and rich cultural heritage, supporting broader efforts to enhance connectivity and collaboration across African destinations.
The 2026 edition is also set to serve as a dynamic marketplace for trade, investment, and innovation. By convening tourism ministers, industry CEOs, airlines, and hospitality stakeholders, the forum will facilitate high-level discussions aimed at strengthening the global competitiveness of “Destination Africa”. A key highlight will be the Africa Tourism Leadership Awards, which recognise excellence and leadership in the industry, with nominations opening soon for professionals and organisations contributing to the sector’s growth and resilience.
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