South Africa Promotes Parks at Tourism Indaba

Why this is here: SANParks is supporting 16 small, medium, and micro enterprises from communities near national parks at the Indaba, covering sectors from accommodation to crafts.

Hapiloe Sello, CEO of South African National Parks, is presenting the agency’s work at Africa’s Travel Indaba in Durban, South Africa. The event began Tuesday with an address by President Cyril Ramaphosa and focuses on growing Africa’s tourism economy. SANParks uses the Indaba to highlight national parks as contributors to nature, communities, culture, and economic growth.

This year, SANParks is emphasizing the centenary of Kruger National Park, marking 100 years since its formal establishment. The agency acknowledges past land dispossession while promoting inclusive conservation models. A dedicated dialogue session brings together conservation leaders and tourism stakeholders to discuss funding, employment, and inclusive growth around protected areas.

Roughly half of the SANParks exhibition stand features Kruger’s centenary. Sixteen small and medium enterprises supported by SANParks—many women-owned or youth-owned—showcase ecotourism offerings. SANParks hopes to solidify its role as a conservation authority and invite global partners to support future conservation efforts.