POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO — The African Tourism Leadership Forum 2026 concludes today in Polokwane, bringing together tourism leaders, policymakers and industry players from across Africa to tackle challenges including immigration, air connectivity, cross-border travel and economic cooperation.

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille, Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba and Polokwane Executive Mayor John Mpe are among those participating, with countries including Uganda, Kenya and Namibia also represented.

But it was Premier Phophi Ramathuba who delivered one of the strongest messages — challenging African leaders to stop talking about the continent’s tourism potential and start acting.

She pointed to the Kruger National Park, saying development should not stop at its gates. Communities and local businesses surrounding major attractions must benefit from tourism and have opportunities to grow.

Ramathuba also challenged young Africans to travel Africa before dreaming of Dubai, while questioning why travelling between neighbouring African countries can sometimes require connecting through another continent.

Her message to policymakers was clear: the time for speeches is over. Africa needs action.

And the call is not only to governments. African travellers, tourism businesses and communities all have a role to play. Explore your own country. Cross the border. Support local tourism businesses. Experience another African culture. Spend locally and help tourism dollars stay within African communities.

Africa has the destinations. Africa has the stories. Africa has the people. Now we must travel, invest and experience our own continent.