Africa’s Eden, the gateway to the tourism network of Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, will host its 2024 Hosted Buyer Show at Ciêla Resort & Spa in Lusaka from April 22-25.
The event places a particular focus on African buyers from southern Africa, East Africa, Indian Ocean Islands as well as some from West Africa. The exhibitors are all Africa’s Eden members.
“We are aiming to highlight the work and value of our African-domiciled agents who do not often get as much credit for the amount of business they support in the industry. The show is in recognition of how much business African buyers give to our destinations,” Africa’s Eden CEO, Jillian Blackbeard, told Tourism Update.
Thus far, 40 buyers and 37 exhibitors have confirmed their participation at the event, although it is expected to grow to a total of 100 buyers and exhibitors.
The trade show also offers pre- and post-fam tours six days before and six days after the event.
“Having an in-destination show is great for all the buyers and suppliers to experience the destination and its offerings first-hand. It also allows more time for one-on-one meetings,” said Blackbeard.
The meetings are created through an appointment scheduler app. “The buyers and suppliers can see who they want to see and the meetings are longer than the usual 20 minutes.
“We are all there for business, but at the same time, networking is important. So, there will be a balance between networking, having a good time, seeing each other, and getting the business done,” Blackbeard added.
One of the buyers, Jacques de Kock, Southern Africa Safari & Regional Divisional Lead at Cullinan Inbound Buying, said: “The Cullinan family of inbound brands – Africa Diamond, followme2AFRICA, Grosvenor Tours, Springbok Atlas, and Thompsons Africa, together account for more than US$17 million of buying across the Africa Eden portfolio.
“The show presents the ideal opportunity to focus on the challenges and opportunities in this exciting and growing region. We are looking at building partnerships to ensure we are best positioned to continue to deliver for our international clients.”
Africa’s Eden will also host other regional trade shows throughout the year, as well as a virtual summit in June. Its global travel trade show will take place in Swakopmund, Namibia, in November.
Click here to access all Africa’s Eden trade shows taking place this year.
