The Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) participated in Africa’s Coastal Marine & Maritime Tourism Trade Market 2025, hosted in Gqeberha, led by the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Ms. Patricia de Lille.
This influential two-day gathering brought together over 350 delegates from the business, government, and tourism sectors to explore growth opportunities and sustainable solutions within Africa’s marine and coastal tourism industry.
As part of the proceedings, Minister de Lille conducted an extensive walkabout through the exhibition area, interacting with exhibitors, emerging entrepreneurs, youth volunteers, and representatives from both public entities and private sector organisations. This engagement reflected the government’s commitment to creating inclusive spaces that foster meaningful stakeholder participation and youth empowerment in the tourism sector.
In her keynote address, the Honourable Makhotso “Maggie” Sotyu, Deputy Minister of Tourism, commended the participation of young learners, highlighting the importance of nurturing future tourism leaders. She emphasised that the Africa Coastal Marine Tourism Trade Market reflects Africa’s ambition to become a global leader in marine and coastal tourism, showcasing the continent’s rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and world-class coastal destinations as drivers of economic growth, cultural exchange, and environmental stewardship.
