Message from the Minister of Tourism

SAACI’s annual national congress has been instrumental in positioning the value of business tourism in the broader tourism industry. As such, the event enjoys my full support.

I am also pleased to note the firmly established partnership between SAACI and South African Tourism – not only in terms of this congress, but also in terms of marketing and growing the sector. The recent establishment of the National Convention Bureau was a crucial building block in this respect. In fact, these initiatives, all in line with the National Tourism Sector Strategy, have already begun bearing fruit.

Your theme – Shifting Paradigms – says it all. The international playing field is level, economic power is shifting, new markets are emerging and technology is constantly changing the way we do business.
South Africa cannot afford to lag behind. While we have some of the best meetings facilities and destinations in the world, we need to remain at the forefront of the industry for sustained growth.

I trust the SAACI congress will influence our collective mindset so that we can shape our future together.

I look forward to meeting you there.