The South African Township and Village Tourism Organisation (SATOVITO) is proud to announce the 4th edition of the Township and Village Tourism Intra-Trade Conference, taking place from 13–14 November 2025 at the Donga Boutique Hotel in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal. If you wish to attend the event, you can RSVP / register for free on Confspot at https://confspot.co.za/list/township-and-village-intra-trade-conference
This year’s conference carries special significance as SATOVITO celebrates its 5th anniversary—marking five years of dedicated service to advancing township and village tourism across South Africa.
Under the theme “Township and Rural Tourism Development,” the 2025 conference will bring together tourism practitioners, policymakers, and community stakeholders from across the country.
“This year’s conference is designed to be practical and action-oriented,” said Mr. Lusanda Fibi, National Coordinator of SATOVITO. “We aim to address the real challenges faced by small and emerging tourism businesses on the ground, while ensuring that our sector is better positioned to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s inclusive economic growth.”
SATOVITO has partnered with KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority as the official host partner for this year’s event. The hosting partnership was awarded following a successful bidding process facilitated by the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB).
The 2025 conference promises not only dynamic discussions and capacity-building sessions but also tangible economic opportunities for small businesses within the Alfred Duma Local Municipality. Local entrepreneurs in accommodation, transport, catering, and creative industries are expected to directly benefit from the influx of over 500 delegates attending the event.
Since its establishment in 2020, SATOVITO has achieved significant milestones—including briefing Parliament on the status of township and village tourism and leading key conversations that have shaped the national tourism transformation agenda.
“We are fully prepared to host one of the most impactful gatherings for township and village tourism to date,” said Mr. Itumeleng Magongoa, SATOVITO’s Project Director. “After extensive engagements with stakeholders nationwide, we are ready to bring everyone together in KwaZulu-Natal to build stronger, more resilient tourism ecosystems.”
Ladysmith—home to the world-renowned Ladysmith Black Mambazo and rich in Zulu cultural heritage—provides the perfect backdrop for this milestone event. Delegates will experience the province’s vibrant culture, heritage, and entrepreneurial spirit first hand.
Key industry players, including government representatives, private sector leaders, tourism associations, and community-based organisations, will all be represented at the 2025 Intra-trade Conference.
For media enquiries or partnership opportunities, please contact: tumi@satovito.org or visit www.satovito.org
