Destination Eswatini wins hearts at Africa Tourism Indaba 2026

BY AMANDA MAMBA

Highlighting the ease of travel within the Kingdom and the warmth of the emaSwati people emerged as

some of the key selling points at this year’s Africa Tourism Indaba in Durban.

EmaSwati are widely recognised for their warm hospitality and welcoming spirit.

The Africa Tourism Indaba (ATI) 2026 took place from May 11 to 16 at the Albert Luthuli International

Convention Centre in Durban, South Africa. The event remains the continent’s most influential tourism

trade show, attracting tourism stakeholders and exhibitors from across Africa and beyond.

The Eswatini Tourism Authority (ETA) participated alongside key tourism industry players, including the

Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Big Game Parks, Happy Valley Hotel, Royal Villas Hotel,

Foresters Arms Hotel, Sibane Sami Hotel and Sibebe Resort.

Other exhibitors included Hilton Garden Inn Mbabane, MTN Bushfire – Malandela’s Lifestyle, Mountain

View International Hotel, Mantenga Lodge, Piggs Peak Hotel, The George Hotel, Nkonyeni Lodge and

Golf Estate, All Out Africa, Eswatini Air, the Eswatini National Tour Operators and Tour Guides

Association (ENTOTOGA), the Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority (ESWACAA), Lidwala Lodge, Wide

Horizons Mountain Retreat and Global Village Guest House.

Sustainability and responsible tourism also featured strongly following the recent Third International

Responsible Tourism Conference held in Piggs Peak. Exhibitors showcased “shared value” tourism

products designed to directly benefit local communities while promoting sustainable tourism

development.

Another major attraction was the Triland Route, a seamless itinerary linking the beaches of

Mozambique, the wildlife experiences of Mpumalanga and the rich cultural heritage of Eswatini. The

three-country, one-trip concept continues to appeal strongly to long-haul travellers seeking diverse

travel experiences within one journey.

Meanwhile, Destination Eswatini took centre stage at ATI 2026 on the opening day as the delegation

burst into a lively and rhythmic rendition of the popular anthem: “Sibongiseni, Halala, Valasha Eswatini.”

The harmonious singing and energetic dance performances served as a powerful invitation for visitors to

experience Eswatini, perfectly capturing the warmth, vibrancy and spirit of the emaSwati people.

The delegation was led by the Minister of Tourism, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane and ETA Chief Executive

Officer Vusi Dlamini.

Industry players used the cultural showcase to highlight the country’s unique selling points and living

cultural heritage. Eswatini’s presence at ATI 2026 ultimately showcased the soul of the Kingdom through

its people, traditions and authentic tourism experiences.