Africa’s Tourism Investment Conference to Drive Sustainable Tourism Growth in Cape Town
Alexandra
Reigniting Tourism Investment in Africa with ATIC 2026
The Africa Tourism Investment Conference (ATIC) is set to return to Cape Town on April 14, 2026, once again integrated into the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa. Hosted at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, this pivotal gathering focuses on unlocking the economic potential of African tourism by bringing together stakeholders from across the spectrum, from government representatives to investors and private developers.
ATIC offers a full day of carefully curated sessions aimed at fostering sustainable tourism growth through practical insights, robust networking, and direct access to financing opportunities. The event acts as a catalyst for cross-sector collaboration, providing a platform where ideas transform into actionable ventures.
Partnership and Strategic Leadership
In partnership with JLL Africa, a global leader in real estate and investment advisory, ATIC benefits from significant expertise in hospitality and tourism investment. JLL’s involvement shines a spotlight on the increasing attractiveness of Africa’s tourism sector to global investors and serves to bridge the gap between opportunity and capital.
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This collaboration is underscored by the presence of key JLL figures such as Wayne Godwin, CEO of JLL Africa, and Bernadine Galliver, Head of Tourism Advisory for the Middle East and Africa, who bring invaluable advisory insights to the conference.
Voices Shaping Africa’s Tourism Landscape
The conference features a prestigious lineup of African and international speakers, offering myriad perspectives on investment and development within the continent. Notable voices include:
- Tim Harris, Economic Development Advisor and former CEO of Wesgro
- Kelvin Watt, Chairman of Nielsen Sports SA
- Paul Jordaan, Executive Director and Co-Founder of ENVI Lodges
- Daniel Silke, Director of Political Futures Consulting
- Paul Gardiner, Director of Mantis Group and Founder of Terra Nova Create
- John Gibson, CEO of Chobe Holdings Limited
These experts discuss a range of topics from innovative public-private project delivery models to environmental stewardship through eco-lodges, and how to harness sports tourism monetization.
A Deeper Look at Africa’s Tourism Investment Trajectory
Africa’s tourism sector has gained momentum as a significant driver of economic development and job creation, despite facing challenges such as infrastructure gaps and regional disparities. The continent's diverse landscapes and cultural richness offer tremendous potential for tourism expansion, especially when guided by sustainable investment strategies.
Historically, tourism in Africa has followed a pattern of concentration in countries like South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt, where more developed infrastructure and facilities exist. However, rising interests in ecotourism, cultural heritage sites, and adventure tourism are expanding opportunities to new regions, uncovering hidden gems beyond traditional hotspots.
Tourism’s Role in Socioeconomic Growth
Tourism in Africa currently contributes about 9% to GDP and provides 7.1% of total employment. Its future growth depends largely on enhancing connectivity—via improved air, road, and maritime transportation—and creating partnerships that incorporate local communities and protect natural environments.
Investments are increasingly directed toward developing enabling infrastructure, such as hotels, resorts, and recreational facilities that cater to both domestic and international visitors. Importantly, strategic destination management is emerging as a key tool in balancing growth with sustainability, ensuring that tourism benefits both visitors and host communities.
Destination Management: Coordinating Sustainable Growth
Effective tourism development across Africa often hinges on robust destination management partnerships. These collaborations involve various stakeholders, including government bodies, private businesses, community groups, and development agencies, all working together to align goals and resources.
Successful management requires coordination in areas such as marketing, infrastructure development, product diversification, and visitor services. It also focuses on capacity building to uplift local skills and foster quality tourism experiences that appeal to discerning travelers.
Components of Destination Management Partnerships
| Stakeholder Group | Role |
|---|---|
| Government Authorities | Policy making, infrastructure development, regulatory oversight |
| Local Communities | Preserving culture, providing authentic experiences, supporting sustainable development |
| Private Sector & Investors | Funding projects, operating facilities, marketing destinations |
| Training Organizations | Building workforce skills and capacity |
| Tourism Service Providers | Ensuring quality visitor services and experiences |
Examples of Successful Destination Partnerships
- Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: A multi-stakeholder committee combines government, national parks, local authorities, and residents to coordinate tourism development.
- Poutasi, Samoa: After a natural disaster, community leaders formed a development trust to rebuild and promote their destination sustainably, showing the power of local initiative backed by partnerships.
- Dinardica, Bosnia and Herzegovina: A local partnership transformed opposition to a dam project into a proactive tourism development plan preserving natural and cultural heritage.
Future Outlook: The Significance of ATIC and African Tourism Growth
Looking ahead, ATIC 2026 represents more than a conference—it is a beacon for sustainable tourism investment across Africa. With rising interest from global investors and an expanding middle class within the continent, the tourism sector is poised to become a defining feature of Africa’s economic landscape.
The emphasis on coordinated partnerships and strategic planning ensures that tourism development efforts are inclusive, responsible, and aligned with regional needs. Furthermore, integration of digital management tools, focused capacity building, and diverse tourism product development will enhance Africa’s competitiveness globally.
Conclusion
The 2026 Africa Tourism Investment Conference signals a major step forward in facilitating meaningful investment and collaboration throughout the continent’s tourism industry. From infrastructure to eco-lodges, from marketing to community engagement, the conference underscores the transformative potential of tourism as both an economic driver and a platform for cultural exchange.
For travelers and investors alike, Africa's growing network of marinas, coastal resorts, and inland destinations offers exciting opportunities to explore sun-drenched beaches, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking natural sites. Whether seeking a luxurious superyacht charter along the pristine coastline or adventurous inland excursions, the continent’s hospitality scene stands ready to welcome all.
For those inspired by Africa's expanding marine and tourism horizons, GetBoat.com is an excellent resource to discover and rent sailing boats, yachts, and more—perfectly suited to explore the continent’s spectacular water destinations, from clear lake waters to sparkling ocean shores.
