All Set for the 20th Edition of Meetings Africa

WWith just five days to go before the official opening of Meetings Africa, industry stakeholders gathered today for a media briefing to share updates ahead of one of the continent’s most significant business events trade shows.

The pre-event media engagement brought together event stakeholders which include bid partner, the Johannesburg Tourism Company and South African Airways, who reinforced Africa’s readiness to host global buyers while delivering meaningful and measurable economic impact.

Providing an update at the briefing, Corne Koch, Chief Convention Bureau Officer at the South African National Convention Bureau (a business unit within South African Tourism), highlighted the significance of the show as it marks a major milestone.

In 2025, Meetings Africa contributed an estimated R690 million to the South African economy and continues to elevate the visibility and scalability of small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) across the African continent, with over 120 SMMEs exhibiting at this year’s show.

“Meetings Africa 2026 continues to demonstrate solid growth and confidence from the global market. This year, we are expecting close to 300 exhibitors from more than 20 African countries, as well as over 380 quality international and local hosted buyers, reinforcing the platform’s role in driving business opportunities and delivering tangible economic benefits,” said Koch.

She added that Meetings Africa remains a critical gateway for connecting African destinations, products and services with international markets. With over 4 000 business meetings already confirmed on the online platform, the 20th edition of the show is expected to deliver real value for exhibitors, buyers and airline partners alike.

A trademark feature of the show, the Sustainability Village, will once again provide a marketplace for vendors producing goods made from sustainable materials. And in line with the show’s sustainability approach, traditional conference bags have been replaced by this curated marketplace, which will allow delegates to purchase meaningful products directly from local vendors and return home with an authentic piece of South Africa of their choosing.

Johannesburg Ready to Host

Rendani Khorombi, Executive Head of Tourism Strategic Services at the Johannesburg Tourism Company, reaffirmed the city’s readiness to host Meetings Africa delegates.

“Johannesburg is ready to welcome Meetings Africa delegates. From world-class convention infrastructure and accommodation to seamless transport and experienced service providers, the city is well positioned to deliver a successful and memorable event. We look forward to hosting buyers and exhibitors and showcasing Johannesburg as a leading business events destination on the continent,” said Khorombi.

The briefing also featured Faith Sikakane, Manager responsible for Government, MICE and Sports at South African Airways, who spoke about the airline’s support in facilitating connectivity for delegates attending the event.

“The value of our bid partnerships cannot be overstated,” said Koch. “With the Sandton Convention Centre and the City of Johannesburg having hosted Meetings Africa since its inception, they remain critical partners in delivering a world-class platform that connects global buyers with African destinations and businesses.”

Meetings Africa 2026 will take place from 23–25 February 2026, with 23 February dedicated to BONDay — a day focused on business connections among exhibitors from different African countries ahead of the official trade days at the Sandton Convention Centre.

The full Meetings Africa programme calendar will be going live, and delegates can look forward to an exceptional milestone edition of the show.

For more information, visit: www.meetingsafrica.co.za

Ends.

Media Enquiries:

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

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

Website www.southafrica.net