Meetings Africa 2026 exhibitor registration opens as South African Tourism Appoints Advisory Panel

AAs South Africa gears up to host 20th edition of Meetings Africa, the organisation is pleased to announce that exhibitor registration is now open on www.meetingsafrica.co.za.

Under the theme, 20 Years of Connecting Africa to the world, the 2026 edition marks a significant milestone for Africa’s premier business events trade show, celebrating two decades of connecting the African continent to global opportunities and showcasing Africa’s growing influence in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector.

For twenty years, Meetings Africa has connected African exhibitors with global buyers, fostering partnerships that drive growth and sustainable tourism across Africa.

“As we gear up for the 20th edition, we are committed to delivering an exceptional and impactful show that reflects Africa’s growth, diversity and potential. This is not just a celebration of how far we have come, but also a moment to shape the future of Africa’s MICE sector,” said Darryl Erasmus, Acting CEO at South African Tourism.

South African Tourism is also proud to announce the appointment of the Meetings Africa advisory panel, bringing together a diverse group of experts and stakeholders from across host cities and the broader business events in the private sector.

The Meetings Africa advisory panel members are:

1. Glenton De Kock - The Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) 
2. Thulani Nzima - South African Township and Village Tourism Association (SATOVITO)
3. Thato Mothopeng - South African Township and Village Tourism Association (SATOVITO)
4. Projeni Pather - Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO)
5. Nina Freysen-Pretorius - The Conference Company
6. Jeffers Miruka - Africa Association Management Company
7. Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo - Industry Thought Leader
8. Frank Murangwa - International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA)
9. John Arvanitakis - Event Greening Forum
10. Shaun Bird - Sandton Convention Centre
11. Mzamo Masito - South African Tourism Board
12. Rendani Khorombi - Joburg Tourism Company
13. Thandubuhle Mgudlwa - Joburg Tourism Company

The advisory panel will play an instrumental role in providing insights and guiding a more coordinated approach to the planning and execution of Meetings Africa 2026.

“South African Tourism extends appreciation to all panel members for their commitment to advancing the country’s business events industry and for their support in driving inclusive, sustainable growth through Meetings Africa. We are committed to fostering stronger partnerships within the tourism value chain and to co-creating a platform that continues to enhance South Africa’s position as a premier business events destination. We look forward to working with the advisory panel in delivering Meetings Africa 2026,” adds Darryl.

“We support the appointment of the Meeting Africa advisory panel as a critical step in ensuring that we imprint Joburg as a hub for business and a playground for leisure tourism in Africa. With the experienced multi-disciplinary team assembled in the MICE environment, we will surely deliver world-class experiences for delegates, shape a legacy of innovation, inclusivity, and excellence, while welcoming the world to Joburg – the heartbeat of Africa”. With no doubt, the world has given vote of confidence to Joburg as a globally competitive host – credit goes to the city as readily geared to stage G20 during the November month which will make Meetings Africa 2026 a total game changer. A remarkable milestone reached is the recent improvement on ICCA Africa rankings from number 6 in 2023 to 5 in 2024” says Mr. Thandubuhle Mgudlwa, Chief Executive Officer, Johannesburg Tourism.

Meetings Africa 2026 will take place from 24–25 February 2026, preceded by BONDay on 23 February 2026, at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. To secure their place at this landmark 20th edition of Meetings Africa, exhibitors can now register on:  www.meetingsafrica.co.za

South Africa Awaits – Come find your joy!

ENDS

Media Enquiries:

Thandiwe Mathibela: GM: Global PR, Communications & Stakeholder Relations

Email: thandiwe@southafrica.net OR mediaq@southafrica.net

Website www.southafrica.net