As the Africa Coastal Marine & Maritime Tourism Trade Market gears up for its official opening, Executive Mayor Cllr. Babalwa Lobishe will take centre stage to welcome delegates, government officials, and global tourism leaders to Nelson Mandela Bay — the proud host city of this high-impact, pan-African gathering.
A dynamic leader with deep roots in community activism and public service, Mayor Lobishe has become a key voice in shaping South Africa’s tourism future. Under her leadership, Nelson Mandela Bay has emerged as a strategic hub for innovation, trade, and cultural exchange — and the perfect home for Africa’s premier coastal and maritime tourism event.
Her passion for township revitalization, inclusive economic development, and heritage tourism aligns perfectly with the event’s mission: to unlock the full potential of Africa’s blue economy, while driving community-based growth and long-term partnerships between public and private sectors.
The event, running from April 15–16, will feature:
- Keynote speakers including Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu, industry experts, and thought leaders.
- Panels on marine tourism investment, climate resilience, and tourism transport integration (with partners like SANTACO).
- High-energy networking events featuring DJ Webster, and immersive exhibitions from partners like South African Airways, Radisson Blu Hotel, SAIMI, and Diageo SA.
Hosted at the Tramways Building in Gqeberha, the Africa Coastal Marine Tourism Trade Market is more than a conference — it’s a platform for transformation.
Get Involved — Limited Free Tickets Available!
Secure your spot and be part of shaping Africa’s coastal tourism future:
- Delegates:
https://confspot.myvirgo.co.za/list/africa-coastal-marine-tourism - Visitors:
https://confspot.myvirgo.co.za/list/africas-coastal-marine-maritime-tourism-trade-market-exclusive-visitors-experience - Buyers & Trade Professionals:
https://confspot.myvirgo.co.za/list/africas-coastal-marine-maritime-tourism-trade-market-exclusive-buyers-experience
This is your chance to connect with Africa’s tourism future — where government meets innovation, and community meets opportunity. Join Mayor Lobishe and a powerful line-up of changemakers in Nelson Mandela Bay.
