The Africa Coastal Marine Tourism Trade Market 2026 is honoured to announce that Makhotso Magdeline Sotyu, widely known as Maggie Sotyu, will serve as a Keynote Speaker at this year’s highly anticipated event.
The Trade Market will take place from 17–20 March 2026 at the iconic Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, bringing together tourism leaders, policymakers, investors, academics, entrepreneurs, and conservationists from across Africa and beyond.
Her keynote address is expected to set the strategic tone for discussions around sustainable coastal tourism, inclusive economic growth, and the expansion of Africa’s blue economy.
For more information about the event and to register to attend go to https://marinetourism.co.za
Government Leadership in Coastal and Marine Tourism
As Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms. Sotyu plays a critical role in shaping South Africa’s tourism policy direction and advancing initiatives that promote inclusive growth, transformation, and sustainability within the sector.
Her participation underscores the national government’s commitment to strengthening:
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Coastal and marine tourism development
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Sustainable destination management
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Community-based tourism enterprises
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Investment in the blue economy
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Skills development and transformation
The Africa Coastal Marine Tourism Trade Market aligns closely with these priorities by creating a platform for collaboration between government, industry, and academia.
Advancing Africa’s Blue Economy
Africa’s vast coastline presents enormous potential for economic development, job creation, and environmental stewardship. Under the leadership of the Department of Tourism, initiatives continue to focus on unlocking opportunities within marine tourism while protecting fragile coastal ecosystems.
Deputy Minister Sotyu’s keynote is expected to address:
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The role of tourism in driving coastal economic growth
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Strengthening public-private partnerships
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Positioning South Africa as a competitive marine tourism destination
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Supporting small and emerging tourism enterprises
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Climate resilience and responsible tourism practices
Her address will provide valuable insight into how national strategies align with regional and continental tourism development goals.
A Landmark Gathering for Coastal Tourism
The Africa Coastal Marine Tourism Trade Market 2026 continues to position Nelson Mandela Bay as a hub for marine tourism innovation, dialogue, and investment.
With Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu delivering the keynote, the event gains significant strategic weight, reinforcing its importance within South Africa’s tourism calendar and Africa’s broader coastal tourism agenda.
Industry stakeholders, exhibitors, and delegates can expect a forward-looking, policy-driven address that will help shape the future of coastal and marine tourism across the continent.
If you want to register as an Exhibitor please click here, for more information or to register as delegate visit https://marinetourism.co.za
