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Act Now To Join The Conversations, Deals, And Partnerships Shaping Africa’s Tourism Future
The countdown is on for Essence of Africa 2025, happening from 7–9 October at Diamonds Malindi on Kenya’s stunning coastline. Africa’s leading meetings-driven international buyer’s forum returns with a power-packed content programme designed to inspire, connect, and drive sustainable growth across the tourism sector.
This year’s line-up features thought leaders and changemakers shaping the future of African travel:
- Keynote: Riaan Manser – Record-breaking South African explorer on “There is an Ocean between Saying and Doing”, offering bold insights into authentic African experiences and opportunity.
- Marine Conservation & Coastal Tourism: Justin Beswick of Bahari Hai (Watamu) on “Living Oceans, Thriving Tourism”, spotlighting community-led sea turtle conservation as a model for resilient coastal travel. (Sponsored by ResRequest)
- Impact & Integrity in Tourism: The Long Run’s Dr. Anne-Kathrin Zschiegner and Joy Mbatau guiding participants through the 4Cs; Conservation, Community, Culture, Commerce, proving authenticity and best practice in sustainable tourism. (Sponsored by Tourplan)
- Market Buzz Returns: Fast-fire global market intel from facilitators and buyers, sharing what travellers from Africa & the Middle East, the Americas, Asia Pacific, and Europe are seeking right now.
Beyond content, Essence of Africa is all about meaningful connections. Delegates can look forward to:
- Up to 38 pre-scheduled one-on-one appointments between top international buyers and leading African sellers.
- Networking evenings infused with local culture.
- Familiarisation trips that extend beyond the host country.
- Targeted seminars blending business with place-based learning.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition in 2024, which gathered 360+ professionals from 37 countries, facilitated 4,200+ meetings, and connected 125 African exhibitors with 130 top buyers, the 2025 forum is set to be even bigger and better. With Kenya’s coastal charm as its stage, Essence of Africa 2025 promises to deliver partnerships that last, bookings that count, and insights that inspire action.
As co-founder Amanda Margison notes: “It’s about practical ideas we can take back to our businesses and the inspiration to keep moving the industry forward.” And in the words of co-founder Chris Mears: “Our goal is to turn insight into action, sparking partnerships that create measurable benefits for nature, people, and culture.”
With resilience, adventure, and integrity at its core, Essence of Africa 2025 is more than just a forum, it’s the future of African tourism in motion.
About Essence of Africa:
Essence of Africa is a private sector-led initiative designed to connect international buyers with African tourism suppliers. The event features pre-scheduled meetings, networking events, educational seminars, and familiarisation trips, providing a comprehensive platform for business development and collaboration.
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