● WTM Africa 2025 hosts a dedicated Responsible Tourism Conference from 9-10 April at the CTICC
● Responsible tourism businesses encouraged to enter the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards – submissions close 19 March
Africa Travel Week (ATW) invites tourism professionals to attend WTM Africa’s Responsible Tourism Conference, running 9-10 April at the Cape Town International Conference Centre (CTICC).
“Sustainability is a guiding principle in how we plan and execute every detail of WTM Africa,” says Carol Weaving, Managing Director of RX Africa.
“We’re rethinking the way trade shows operate in Africa, from partnering with eco-conscious venues like the CTICC to implementing cutting-edge waste reduction strategies. But our commitment goes beyond the event itself. WTM Africa is a catalyst for change, empowering the tourism industry to adopt sustainable practices that are both environmentally responsible and commercially viable.”
“This dedicated two-day programme serves as a key value-add for show attendees, driving critical conversations and celebrating sustainable tourism excellence across Africa,” says Olivia Gradidge, Marketing Manager, WTM Africa and ILTM Africa.
The conference, overseen by Managing Director of the Responsible Tourism Partnership, Harold Goodwin, will convene high-demand industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders. Topics will explore innovative and actionable strategies for promoting responsible tourism across the continent. Key sessions include:
● Why Responsible Tourism Makes Business Sense – Harvard economist and business expert, Michael Porter, unpacks how sustainability drives profitability and long-term success.
● Responsible Tourism: The Cape Town Experience – Join academic and entrepreneur, Dr. Theuns Vivian to explore current tourism trends and Cape Town’s contributions
● Exclusive Interview with Michael Lutzeyer – Discover how Grootbos transformed from a family retreat into a globally recognised conservation leader.
● SATSA & Responsible Tourism – Learn how SATSA and Fair Trade Tourism are equipping members with tools to thrive sustainably.
“There’s something for everyone this year. These sessions offer practical insights to help businesses at all levels integrate responsible tourism strategies effectively,” Gradidge adds.
WTM Africa further calls on tourism businesses championing sustainability to enter the Responsible Tourism Awards, presented on 11 April.
“A significant highlight at WTM Africa, these annual awards celebrate exceptional organisations, initiatives, and individuals leading by example and raising the bar with sustainable practices,” says Gradidge.
The Awards are free to enter, with six curated categories judged by an expert panel. Gold winners will advance to compete in the Global Responsible Tourism Awards, facing finalists from India and Latin America.
The submission deadline is 19 March 2025. Enter now at: www.wtm.com/africa/en-gb/whats-on/responsible-tourism-awards.html
