The Meetings Africa 2020 BONDay (Business Opportunities Networking Day) took place today, on Monday 24 February, enabling discussions between buyers and exhibitors on how they can better work together to positively impact tourism across the continent.
This year, the show’s theme is “Shared economies”. Speakers explored issues such as how to grow the African industry collaboratively and the continent’s value proposition within the global economy.
Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, South Africa National Convention Bureau’s (SANCB) Chief Convention Bureau Officer, gave the opening address, and called on all Africans to buy into the idea that the continent is where humanity and innovation starts. “We need to buy into it so we can sell it to the world. The world is standing at our door to buy you.”
“I am sure you will see how we grew from a very small show to where we are today,” she added. “We are here to learn from each other, find new ideas and innovation to overcome challenges. When we network with each other, magic will happen and we will wow the world.”
“The show has are 329 exhibitors and 321 buyers – of which, 205 are international hosted buyers.”
The show, now in its 15th year, has shown a number of improvements, including:
- 100% of the exhibitor stands were sold – up from 95% in 2019
- 118 square metres more floor space was sold, compared to last year
- The show has are 329 exhibitors and 321 buyers – of which, 205 are international hosted buyers
Sumathi Ramanathan, the Director of Destination Marketing for the 2020 Dubai Expo (pictured above), gave a keynote address about the upcoming World Expo that is being be held in the Middle East, South-Asia & Africa region for the first time in its 169-year history. She said, “It is very significant for the region and it allows us to tell a strong story…The ambition was to always bring great minds together and creating a better future.”
“The power in events is not only in filling hotel beds and conference meals. But when done properly, events have real purpose and have the potential to touch humanity and individuals.”
The event is known for its economic and technological impact. All 54 African countries will participate in 2020 Dubai Expo, where they have the opportunity to connect with its anticipated 25-million visitors from around the globe.
Ramanathan added, “We are all in the business of connecting people and bringing people together through events. The power in events is not only in filling hotel beds and conference meals. But when done properly, events have real purpose and have the potential to touch humanity and individuals.”
Photos supplied by South African Tourism.
