First held in 1990, Johannesburg Pride is the oldest and largest LGBTQ+ pride celebration on the continent, taking place in a country whose Constitution protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Unfortunately, those protections end at the departure gate. For multinationals that send people across borders, that means their travel policies and duty of care need to travel well too. As Mummy Mafojane, GM at FCM Travel South Africa, explains, an employee who is comfortable being out at work in Johannesburg or Cape Town may need different guidance before a trip to West Africa, the Gulf or parts of Asia.

“Unfortunately, some travel policies and risk programmes are still built with one kind of traveller in mind,” says Mafojane. “They assess the destination well enough, but they don’t always account for who is making the trip and what that person might face when they land.”

An evolving landscape

In 2025, the number of countries criminalising consensual same-sex relationships rose for the first time in almost a decade, to 65, according to the ILGA World Database. The increase was driven by a new law in Burkina Faso and a court ruling in Trinidad and Tobago that reversed decriminalisation.

Several African countries, including Senegal and Uganda, have targeted LGBTQ+ rights in recent years. In May 2026, for example, Ghana’s parliament passed a bill that criminalises identifying as LGBTQ+, introduces prison terms for promoting or supporting LGBTQ+ rights and creates a duty to report. In Central Asia, Kazakhstan banned so-called LGBT propaganda at the end of 2025, even though same-sex relationships are legal there.

For transgender and non-binary travellers, the changes in the US are about documents. New passports are issued only with an ‘M’ or ‘F’ marker matching sex at birth, and airline passenger data systems now reject anything else. Existing passports with a gender-neutral ‘X’ marker remain valid, but travellers should expect questions at check-in and at the border.

“The legal picture changes quickly, and it is rarely black and white,” says Mafojane. “In one country, same-sex relationships can be legal on paper and still unsafe in practice, while another has laws that are seldom enforced. You need to ensure your information is current, and flagged at the point of booking, so travel managers aren’t relying on what was true two years ago.”

Duty of care that fits the person

Duty of care has traditionally been built around the destination, but the same trip can carry a very different risk profile for different people.

The complication is privacy. Employers can’t (and shouldn’t) ask who their LGBTQ+ employees are, and many people prefer to keep that to themselves. The answer is to make LGBTQ+ destination briefings part of the standard pre-trip information every traveller receives, so nobody has to out themselves to get it.

“Good duty of care information reaches every traveller without anyone having to ask for it,” says Mafojane. “And when someone does need help, they should know exactly who to call, at any hour, and trust that the conversation remains confidential.”

What an inclusive travel policy looks like

Mafojane suggests a few practical updates:

• The right to decline travel to a high-risk destination without career consequences, along with alternatives such as a virtual meeting or sending a colleague instead.
• Confidential, personalised pre-trip risk assessments, so employees can raise concerns without having to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity.
• Gender-neutral language, with “partner” in place of “spouse”, and clear rules on partners accompanying travellers or being named as emergency contacts. Some countries won’t recognise a same-sex partner as next of kin.
• Traveller profiles that match travel documents exactly, stored with strict access controls.
• Pre-trip digital safety guidance for every traveller, covering dating apps, social media and device checks at borders in countries with “promotion” or “propaganda” laws.
• Approved accommodation that is vetted for a welcoming environment and a secure location.
• Approved ground transport, such as trusted shuttle services.
• A confidential support line to HR or a travel risk manager, so travellers in hostile environments don’t have to turn to local police first.
• Up-to-date contact details for the traveller’s embassy or consulate.
• Clear contingency and evacuation plans for staff facing legal threats or harassment abroad (including comprehensive insurance cover).

Incentives and events

The same thinking applies to conferences and incentives. An inclusive organisation shouldn’t host an event where some delegates face legal risk for attending. Pride branding also needs care, as a rainbow logo or supportive social post celebrated at home could expose staff in markets with laws against promoting LGBTQ+ rights. For employees based in those countries, that exposure lasts well beyond a business trip.

Inclusion is a talent issue

The way a company handles travel influences how its people see it as an employer. Booking.com’s 2026 Travel Proud research, which surveyed more than 13,300 LGBTQ+ travellers across 19 countries, found that 45% have hidden their identity on a business trip for safety reasons, and 42% have turned down a lucrative business opportunity because of safety concerns or a lack of employer support. The effect reaches recruitment too. According to the data, 44% have turned down or avoided applying for jobs at companies without clear LGBTQ+ travel protections, and 58% say those protections would influence their decision to work for a company.

Travel policies need to measure up. Business Travel Show Europe’s 2026 survey of corporate travel buyers and managers found that only 20% of organisations have policies in place for LGBTQ+ travellers, down from 22% in 2025. “Pride Month is a good moment to look at your travel policy with fresh eyes,” says Mafojane. “Ask whether it protects every traveller you send, and whether every traveller knows it does. If not, the fix is straightforward, and the right travel management partner can help.”

For households with home loans, vehicle finance, or other variable-rate debt, the increase means monthly repayments are likely to edge higher, leaving a little less room for non-essential spending.

So, does this mean the holiday of your dreams needs to go back onto the “maybe one day” list?

Not necessarily. Analysts and trade union officials still expect headline inflation to average 4.4% this year, according to the latest survey commissioned by the South African Reserve Bank. Forecasts for 2027 and 2028 have also improved slightly, falling to 4% and 3.8%, respectively.

Stable inflation expectations don’t mean prices are falling, and the interest-rate increase may place additional pressure on household budgets. However, greater predictability can still make it easier to set a realistic savings target and understand how long it might take to reach it.

“An interest-rate increase is never welcome news for indebted households, and travellers should reassess what they can comfortably put aside once their essential expenses and repayments have been covered,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager of Flight Centre South Africa. “But that doesn’t necessarily mean abandoning the idea of a holiday. It may mean adjusting the destination, extending the savings period, or starting with a smaller amount. The important thing is to plan around the budget you actually have.”

A separate consumer confidence survey found that South African sentiment improved during the third quarter. While households are still expected to prioritise essentials and approach festive-season spending thoughtfully, the shift suggests that Saffas are beginning to feel a little more hopeful about their finances.

So, what does a holiday actually cost?

Based on current pricing, a couple could enjoy a short local break for less than R4,000*, while longer regional and international escapes become possible with a bigger budget and a longer savings runway. After all, a trip that feels impossible as one large expense can look very different when it’s broken into manageable monthly amounts.

“Affordability is personal, which is why holiday planning shouldn’t begin with a destination pulled from someone else’s bucket list,” says Turner. “Start with an amount you can save comfortably and consistently after covering your essential expenses, updated debt repayments, and emergency provision. If that amount is R500 a month, don’t dismiss it as ‘too little’. Over a year, it becomes R6,000 – enough to cover certain short local breaks for two at today’s prices. Start with the number that works for your household, give it time to grow, and then choose the holiday that fits.”

A current holiday price ladder for two

The examples below are based on selected Flight Centre package prices available at the time of writing.

It’s important to remember that the lowest headline price isn’t automatically the most affordable holiday. Turner cautions:

“Travellers need to compare what their money actually covers. A package that includes flights, transfers, and meals may offer greater cost certainty than a cheaper option that leaves most expenses to be settled in foreign currency. The rand can be volatile, so knowing that a large portion of the trip has already been paid upfront can make the final cost easier to predict and protect your budget from unwelcome surprises.”

There’s also one more important catch: current travel offers have specific booking deadlines and travel periods. A package available today may expire long before someone following a 12-month savings plan is ready to travel.

The figures above should therefore be treated as an indication of what different holiday categories cost now, not a guarantee that the identical package will be available at the same price in future.

The best holiday is one you can afford to enjoy

“There’s no single amount that makes someone ‘able to afford travel’,” Turner concludes. “For one household, success might be a R4,000 road trip. For another, it might mean saving for 18 months towards an international holiday. The win is being honest about the numbers, allowing enough time, and choosing an experience that leaves you with good memories – not months of financial stress.”

Stabilising inflation may not put cheaper holidays on the departures board immediately. But if it brings a little more predictability to household budgets, it could help many South Africans replace “maybe one day” with a date, a monthly target, and a holiday that truly fits.

*Based on Flight Centre holiday packages as of 21 October 2026

FLIGHT CENTRE TRAVEL GROUP SOUTH AFRICA

Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) SA is part of Flight Centre Travel Group, an Australia-based international travel company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, with a market cap of AU$2,31 billion and a current share price of AU$11.42 as of 22 October, 2026. FCTG with three leading brands: Flight Centre, Corporate Traveller and FCM, of which Corporate Traveller and FCM are proud level 1 BBBEE Contributors. FCTG SA is wholly owned and has been recognised as one of Deloitte’s Best Companies to Work for in South Africa for over a decade.

Africa Travel Week (ATW) has officially opened entries for the 2027 ATW Media Awards, celebrating the journalists, photographers, artists and content creators whose work brings Africa’s travel and tourism stories to life.

Entries are open across five categories until Friday, 15 January 2027, and the winners will be announced at WTM Africa, taking place in the Host City of Cape Town from 7–9 April 2027 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

“Africa’s travel story is richer, more diverse and more compelling than ever, and the people telling it deserve to be celebrated,” said Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director at RX Africa.

“Whether you’re a seasoned journalist, a photographer with a frame you can’t stop thinking about, or a young creator just finding your voice, we want to see your work. The ATW Media Awards are designed to honour work that inspires travel, champions responsible tourism and shows the world the authentic spirit of African destinations.”

The five official categories for the 2027 ATW Media Awards are:

1. Sustainability Feature Award: Journalism that digs beneath the surface of sustainability in African tourism, from community-led tourism and conservation to the changemakers building a fairer, greener future for travel.
2. Visual Tourism Award: Photographers and artists whose work captures Africa’s landscapes, wildlife, people and culture with a distinctive eye. Entrants may submit one photo, one artwork or one cohesive series of related images. New this year, exposure blending (HDR) and focus stacking are permitted within clear authenticity guidelines.
3. Tourism News Award: Sharp, rigorous reporting on the developments, trends and challenges shaping African tourism.
4. Destination Feature Award: Immersive features that bring an African destination to life through its landscapes, heritage and people.
5. Young Talent Award: Rising writers, photographers and digital creators under 25 who are already changing the conversation about travel on the continent.

Entry details

The awards are free to enter, with only one submission accepted per category. All work must have appeared in print or online between 1 January and 31 December 2026. Entries will be judged by a panel of respected travel editors, journalists and photographers, to be announced soon.

Deadline: Friday, 15 January 2027

Full category criteria, technical requirements and entry details are available at: https://atwconnect.com/the-2027-atw-media-awards/

Know someone who should enter? ATW encourages editors, publishers, tourism boards and industry partners to share this call for entries with writers, photographers, freelancers, students and creators in their networks.

“The next great story about Africa may be sitting with someone who just needs to be told to enter. Sometimes all it takes is a nudge,” De Jager concluded.

• Norwegian Bella™ to be the Grand Finale in NCL’s Groundbreaking Prima Class

JOHANNESBURG – 21 October, 2026 Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the industry leader in delivering freedom and choice in experiences with uncompromising hospitality, today opened for sale its next cutting-edge vessel, Norwegian Bella™, which will offer seven-day round-trip Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona, Spain beginning in May 2028.

At approximately 1,129 feet long and 170,000 gross tons, Norwegian Bella will accommodate 3,921 guests at double occupancy and will join Norwegian Aura as the largest ships in the NCL fleet. Her inaugural season of voyages will include an unparalleled way for guests to experience Europe’s most captivating destinations, including Rome, Florence and Salerno, Italy; Marseille, France; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

On board, Norwegian Bella will offer similar experiences to Norwegian Aura, the Company’s latest vessel due for delivery in May 2027. With Norwegian Bella sailing in Europe and Norwegian Aura in the Caribbean, NCL will bring its newest guest experiences to two of the world’s top cruise destinations. Both vessels are currently being built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, with interior designs created by world-class architects AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, and Studio Dado.

“Norwegian Bella marks a milestone moment in our fleet as the culmination of our award-winning Prima Class,” said Gary Anslow, Vice President MEA, at Norwegian Cruise Line. “Drawing on the innovations and guest feedback that have shaped the class from the very beginning, Norwegian Bella brings together our most sought-after experiences in one extraordinary ship. From enhanced outdoor spaces and family-friendly attractions to elevated venues for relaxation and connection, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to give guests the freedom and flexibility to vacation exactly how they want to, without anyone having to compromise. We look forward to welcoming guests to discover the Mediterranean with us aboard Norwegian Bella.”

Norwegian Bella showcases a collection of elevated experiences, including:

OCEAN HEIGHTS: OPEN-AIR ACTIVITIES FROM DAY TO NIGHT

Spanning decks 18 through 21, Ocean Heights™ is the multi-level, open-air complex that transforms throughout the day, serving as a sun-soaked playground by afternoon that evolves into a vibrant social hub under the stars with immersive lighting and LED projections at night.

From friendly competition to heart-pounding thrills, Norwegian Bella delivers unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages. Adventure seekers can race side-by-side on Eclipse Racers, take the plunge on the Bella Free Fall waterslide or experience The Wave, a pendulum-style raft slide accommodating up to four riders. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, travellers can brave The Drop, the signature Prima Class dry slide that sends guests speeding down 10 decks in a matter of seconds. The excitement continues with the Bella Ropes Course; the Bella Midway, which brings classic carnival-inspired fun to sea and on deck 20, guests can perfect their putt on the nine-hole mini golf course or discover Moon Climber, a vibrant, multi-level harness-free adventure course.

OCEAN BOULEVARD: OCEAN VIEWS, FAMILY SPACES AND INFINITY BEACH

Wrapping the entire ship on deck eight, Norwegian Bella’s Ocean Boulevard is the signature Prima Class promenade, now enhanced with additional seating compared to Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, featuring hot tubs and an outdoor bar. At the heart of the experience is Infinity Beach, where guests can enjoy stunning infinity pools, upscale daybeds, hot tubs and a full-service outdoor bar.

Dedicated spaces for younger guests include Little Explorers’ Cay complete with a playhouse and slides for ages two to six; Adventure Alley offering ages six to 10 an immersive playground filled with crawl spaces, winding tunnels and imaginative ocean-inspired adventures; and teens can claim their own hangout at Surf’s Bay, a contemporary retreat with a striking surf wall photo installation for the best selfies at sea.

EXPANDED POOL DECK, FAMILY WATER PLAY AND AN ADULTS-ONLY ESCAPE

Over 15% larger than Norwegian Aqua’s and Norwegian Luna’s pool decks, Norwegian Bella’s expansive pool deck features more space and seating, an infinity hot tub and a large LED entertainment screen, creating the perfect backdrop for relaxing days at sea.

The top deck action continues with the Kids’ Aqua Park, featuring a reimagined splash pad design and interactive water features for young cruisers. Nearby are two family-fun waterslides – The Party Slide, a wide and shallow slide perfect for families and friends to enjoy together, and Infinity Loop, a figure-eight slide. Guests looking for more sun-soaked fun with beautiful views of the ocean can enjoy ample lounging and outdoor lawn games at Horizon Park on deck 19.

For cruisers seeking a more elevated escape, Vibe Beach Club delivers NCL’s signature adults-only experience in a sophisticated atmosphere, complete with infinity hot tubs, a central oceanfront bar, enhanced relaxation areas, sun loungers and luxurious daybeds.

WELL-APPOINTED ACCOMMODATIONS AND UNPARALLELED LUXURY IN THE HAVEN BY NORWEGIAN^®

Norwegian Bella offers nearly 2,000 staterooms with a variety of thoughtfully designed accommodations, ranging from inside staterooms and studios to spacious balcony staterooms. With the diverse range of staterooms, every type of traveller, including families and multigenerational groups, can feel comfortable at sea while experiencing NCL’s uncompromising hospitality and genuine service.

The ship will include 159 suites within The Haven by Norwegian, NCL’s exclusive, keycard-access ship-within-a-ship experience. Designed by Piero Lissoni, The Haven will be located aft and offer private elevators, a sundeck with an infinity pool, two hot tubs, an outdoor sauna and cold room, and separate family-friendly and adults-only areas. Haven guests will also have access to a private restaurant and bar with exclusive menu offerings, as well as a lounge.  Additional benefits include 24-hour butler and concierge service, as well as priority embarkation, disembarkation and reservations.

DAZZLING, EYE-CATCHING NEW HULL ART

Continuing NCL’s tradition of partnering with renowned artists to create iconic hull artwork across its fleet, Norwegian Bella will feature a striking original design by acclaimed Australian contemporary artist George Rose. Known for her bold murals and vibrant botanical compositions, Rose creates immersive works that blend fine art and design through vivid colour, fluid gradients and graphic natural forms. With a career spanning more than 15 years, Rose has worked across cultural, public and commercial contexts internationally including work with STRAAT Museum Amsterdam, the Australian Embassy in Indonesia, Colab Gallery Germany, and brands such as Instagram, Nike and TikTok.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Rose said, “Designing the hull art for Norwegian Bella was an opportunity to capture the sense of wonder that travel inspires. Through vibrant colour, organic forms and a feeling of movement, I wanted to create a piece that reflects the excitement of exploration and discovery. I’m looking forward to seeing my artwork come to life on a ship that will visit some of Europe’s most remarkable destinations, and I hope it becomes part of the memories guests create throughout their journey.”

For images and b-roll of Norwegian Bella, visit the press kit here.

For more information about the Company’s award-winning fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call +27 087 550 3914 or visit www.ncl.com.

Hon. Shariff Ali Shariff, Minister of State in the President’s Office (Labour, Economy and Investment), officially opened Essence of Africa 2026 last night at Diamonds Bijoux, a Planhotel Hospitality Group hotel. Over three days, 178 pre-qualified international buyers from 40 countries are meeting 162 exhibiting companies, bringing an international travel trade audience to Zanzibar.

Speaking on behalf of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, the Minister said hosting Essence of Africa supports the islands’ plans to attract more international meetings and events. It also gives Zanzibar an opportunity to introduce its tourism products to buyers from established and emerging international markets

“Zanzibar is no longer just a destination for holidays,” he said. “We are also a destination for international conferences, business meetings, entertainment, cultural celebrations and global networking.”

Opened in February 2026, Diamonds Bijoux is a five-star, all-inclusive beachfront resort on Zanzibar’s southeast coast, between Bwejuu and Dongwe. Its conference facilities add to the island’s capacity to host international business events, while Essence of Africa gives Zanzibar an opportunity to demonstrate its appeal as a meetings destination.

The government also wants visitors to explore Zanzibar beyond its beaches, with a focus on culture, food, wellness, sports, and halal and family travel.

“We want visitors to come for our beaches, but stay longer for everything else Zanzibar has to offer,” said the Minister.

The push to diversify comes as Zanzibar records its highest visitor numbers to date. According to the Minister, the islands welcomed 917,167 international visitors in 2025, up approximately 24.5% on 2024. More than 633,000 arrived between January and August 2026, including a monthly record of more than 124,000 in August.

“Our ambition is not simply to welcome more visitors. It is to ensure that every visitor contributes more to our economy and that the benefits of tourism reach more of our people,” said the Minister.

The Minister also encouraged buyers and investors to look beyond Unguja, Zanzibar’s main island, to Pemba. He said the government plans to improve infrastructure and connectivity to attract investment in ecotourism, boutique resorts, wellness retreats and marine tourism, while preserving Pemba’s distinct character.

“We do not want Pemba to become another Unguja. We want it to develop its own identity and offer visitors something different,” he said.

Zanzibar air capacity set to grow 33%

Virginia Messina, CEO of ATTA®, the African Travel and Tourism Association, said airline seat capacity into Zanzibar had grown by more than 11% over the past year and was projected to increase by 33% over the next six months.

The figures, produced by ATTA® in partnership with The Data Appeal Company, also show that seat capacity across East Africa grew by 3.6% this summer, with long-haul capacity increasing by 7%. Messina welcomed British Airways’ announcement of a new service to Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar from May 2027.

“Growth alone cannot be our measure of success. We need the right policies and frameworks to turn growth into long-term value for destinations and communities, while protecting the very things that make Africa such a wonderful place,” she said.

Largest Essence of Africa to date

Essence of Africa is a private-sector-led initiative of On Show Solutions and ATTA®, bringing African tourism businesses together with the international buyers who sell the continent.

This third edition, following Nairobi in 2024 and Malindi, Kenya, in 2025, is the largest to date. It brings together 162 exhibiting companies, up 53% since the inaugural event, and 178 international buyers from 40 countries. Almost 75% of the buyers are attending for the first time. East African businesses account for 79% of exhibitors, while Europe is the largest buyer source region at 39%, followed by the Americas at 23% and Asia-Pacific at 19%.

Jacqui Reynolds, Co-Founder of Essence of Africa, said the forum was created to give African tourism businesses direct access to international buyers who could bring them new business.

Several buyers have already taken part in familiarisation trips around Zanzibar, giving them firsthand experience of the destination before meeting exhibitors. For local tourism businesses, the event offers an opportunity to build relationships with international buyers who could include Zanzibar in future travel programmes.

“Essence has never simply been about getting bigger,” said Reynolds. “It is about getting the right people into the room. It is about the quality of the conversations that happen over the next few days, the relationships that begin here, and ultimately the business that comes back to Africa as a result.”

Reynolds thanked the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism for helping bring the event to the island.

Essence of Africa 2026 runs at Diamonds Bijoux until 22 October.

Published in Government Gazette No. 55542 on 16 October 2026, the extension is scheduled to take effect on 26 October 2026.

FEDHASA is calling on affected restaurant owners and hospitality employers to participate in the legal application and contribute towards the associated legal costs.

“FEDHASA understands the importance of fair employment practices and the role of collective bargaining in the hospitality sector. Our concern is not with the agreement itself, but with ensuring that the process by which it is extended to non-parties meets the legal requirements that exist to protect all affected parties, including employers who were not part of the original negotiations. We believe these questions deserve proper consideration by the courts,” said Brett Tungay, FEDHASA National Chairperson.

Implications for restaurant operators

The agreement introduces a range of employment-related obligations for affected businesses, including:

• Prescribed minimum wages, ranging from the national minimum wage of R30.23 per hour to R57.23 per hour for certain categories, including chefs and managers.
• Employer contributions of 5% towards the Council’s Provident Fund, in addition to the employee contribution.
• Contributions towards a funeral scheme.
• A uniform cleaning allowance of R17.50 per week.
• A minimum annual bonus equivalent to two weeks’ salary.
• Council levies of R16 per employee per month, shared between employer and employee, and a R25 monthly levy per establishment payable by the employer.

The association recognises that the restaurant industry encompasses a wide range of businesses, from large groups and independent restaurants to family-owned establishments, small cafés and tourism-dependent operators. Regulatory requirements can have meaningfully different consequences for businesses with different resources, turnover and staffing structures, and this diversity warrants careful consideration. FEDHASA encourages members to seek appropriate advice regarding their individual circumstances.

Legal process and next steps

FEDHASA has previously engaged with a similar matter, with the Labour Court granting an interdict on 2 March 2021. The association is now coordinating a fresh urgent legal application in respect of the current extension.

The outcome will be determined by the Labour Court, and FEDHASA will pursue the matter through the appropriate legal channels. The association is committed to engaging constructively with all relevant stakeholders throughout this process.

“FEDHASA has a responsibility to its members and to the broader hospitality sector to ensure that questions of this nature receive proper legal consideration. We are not seeking confrontation – we are seeking clarity. Where legitimate concerns exist about whether legal requirements have been met, it is appropriate to ask the courts to make that determination,” said Tungay.

Industry participation

Given the short period before the extension is due to take effect, FEDHASA is asking affected restaurant owners and hospitality employers to consider joining the proposed interdict application.

FEDHASA is also asking members and affected businesses to consider contributing towards the legal costs of the application. Broad participation will be important in enabling the industry to pursue an effective legal challenge within the available timeframe. Details of the appointed attorneys, participation requirements and cost arrangements will be provided directly to interested businesses.

Businesses wishing to participate should complete FEDHASA’s online form by no later than 17:00 on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

“We recognise that this is a significant ask at short notice, and we are grateful to the members and businesses who are willing to engage with this process. The hospitality industry has shown resilience and solidarity in the face of many challenges. We hope that spirit will carry through here as well,” said Tungay.

FEDHASA will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders and keep members informed of developments as the legal process proceeds.

“These are young South Africans who have chosen hospitality as their career, honed their craft, and earned the right to compete on a world stage. For FEDHASA, backing them is a powerful statement about the kind of industry we are building – one that invests in its youth and celebrates the culinary arts as a desirable and prestigious career. We would love the support of our industry in this effort,” said FEDHASA Inland Chairperson Gustav Pieterse.

The BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign, initiated by the SA Chefs Association, has set a target of R1.5 million. The campaign is built on the strength of many contributions, not the size of any single donation.

• 500 people giving R100 = R50,000
• 1,000 people giving R100 = R100,000
• 5,000 people giving R100 = R500,000

Contributions of R50, R100, or R200 make a real difference, and for those unable to donate, sharing the campaign is equally valuable.

The nine-strong team of young chefs comes from across South Africa, from Soweto and Rustenburg to Richards Bay, Durban, and the Western Cape. They trained at some of the country’s finest culinary schools and work in some of its most acclaimed kitchens, among them the Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa, Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, and Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch. They are guided by Chef Donaldson Madubela (Technical Head Coach), Chef Marcus Gericke and Chef Catherine Adonis (Technical Coaches), Pieter Malan (Team Manager), Chef Mahlomola Thamae (Head of Talent), Chef Zana Alvarado and Chef Ras Van Gruene (Deputy Team Managers) and Chef Warren Franz (Team Logistics).

Every member of the team carries a deeply personal food story rooted in South African heritage and family. Seswaa and bogobe. Ujeqe with beef stew. A Sunday seven colours. Kalya spiced with saffron and prunes. Pap and pork trotters. Lamb biryani cooked over the fire. These are the dishes and the culinary traditions that have shaped this team, and that they will carry with them to Luxembourg.

For each and every one of them, the opportunity extends beyond competition.

“I am not only going to Luxembourg as Unami Binda the chef; I am going as a young South African woman carrying the flavours and experiences that shaped me,” said Chef Unami Binda, who works at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff.

Chef Phenyo Pooe from 54 on Bath, echoed that sentiment: “It’s about showcasing South African cuisine with modern techniques, honouring the past while proving our food deserves to be celebrated and shared with the world.”

Deputy Team Manager Chef Zana Alvarado captured the team’s collective ambition most simply:

“We are not just taking Team Masakhane to Luxembourg. We are taking a piece of South Africa to the world.”

To donate: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/take-team-masakhane-to-luxembourg
Campaign hashtag: #BackTeamMasakhane

For tailor-made donation discussions or partnership enquiries, contact:
Nwabisa Makumule
Partner Relations Manager, SA Chefs Association
📞 078 272 6909
📧 partners@sachefs.co.za

The rand is at its most stable in years. Inflation is falling; load-shedding is gone. And somehow, South Africans are still waiting to book that trip.

They’re waiting for the rand to improve. Watching a fare, watching the currency, and watching both move in the wrong direction while the decision gets deferred for another month.

The rand is currently trading at around R16.43* to the US dollar, around R21.93* against the pound, and approximately R18.52* against the euro – a level that Investec chief economist Annabel Bishop describes as “relatively stable in light of the return to war in the Middle East,” supported by improving domestic fundamentals and foreign investor sentiment, as well as South Africa’s recent sovereign credit rating upgrade by S&P Global. Furthermore, the Government of National Unity has noticeably bolstered investor confidence, and National Treasury projects GDP growth of 1.6% in 2026, rising to 2% by 2028.

By South African standards, this is a reasonable place to be. The question is what to do with it.

“The travellers who get the best value understand that the rand rate is only one part of the equation,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager at Flight Centre South Africa. “Flight prices and availability move independently of the currency, and in the current aviation environment, with capacity constrained and demand recovering strongly, the fare you’re watching today is not guaranteed to be there in 3 – 6 months’ time, regardless of what the rand is doing.”

What waiting actually costs you

Multiple analyst forecasts, including by The Economy Forecast Agency, suggest the rand could strengthen modestly over the next 12 months, potentially trading closer to R15.50 to R16.00 against the dollar by mid-2027. On a R20,000 trip, a R1.00 improvement in the rand-dollar rate saves you roughly R1,200, which sounds meaningful.

However, global airline operating expenses are growing at 13% year-on-year, driven largely by a 70% surge in jet fuel costs. Airlines are responding by narrowing the gap between their lowest and highest fares. The deep-discount inventory that once made last-minute or flexible booking viable is contracting and the fare floor is rising.

The question was never “is the rand strong enough?”. It’s “is the value available to me today better than the value I’m likely to find if I wait?” Right now, for many destinations, the honest answer is yes.

Where the rand goes further right now

For travellers whose priority is maximising what their money buys on the ground, the current environment offers some truly exciting options, particularly within Africa, where the rand’s relative strength against neighbouring currencies creates notable purchasing power.

Namibia is the most practical starting point. The Namibian dollar is pegged to the rand at 1:1, meaning your money goes exactly as far as it does at home, but your accommodation, activities, and food often cost considerably less than equivalent South African options, particularly for self-drive itineraries through the Namib Desert and Etosha.

Mozambique offers strong beach value without premium pricing. The metical has weakened against the rand over time, and for travellers driving to Ponta do Ouro or flying to Vilanculos, the on-the-ground costs remain among the most affordable of any Indian Ocean beach destination accessible to South Africans.

Thailand and Vietnam remain the benchmark for long-haul value, according to Turner. Both the Thai baht and Vietnamese dong offer favourable rates against the rand, and day-to-day costs, like accommodation, food, transport, and activities, are low enough that the return airfare is often the most significant expense of the entire trip.

Egypt and Turkey stand out for city-break value, with affordable accommodation, dining, and transport relative to European alternatives, and direct or straightforward routing from South Africa.

“The rand is stronger than the Indonesian rupiah, the Tanzanian shilling, and the Thai baht right now,” notes Turner. “For South Africans who are flexible on destination, that translates into tangible value on the ground, not just a favourable-looking exchange rate, but a trip that costs less to live once you arrive.”

The smarter question to ask

Flight Centre’s 2025 global PR survey found that 96% of South African travel intenders are actively adapting their plans to make travel more affordable. That instinct is right, but adaptation doesn’t mean waiting; it simply means choosing smarter.

Book when the value is real and available, and rely on a travel advisor who can tell you not just what a fare costs today, but what the total trip will cost once baggage fees, seat selection, and flexibility premiums are factored in. Understand that a stronger rand in six months’ time is a forecast, while the fare in front of you right now is a fact.

“The rand is behaving,” concludes Turner. “That’s not a guarantee of anything – currency markets never are. But it is an opportunity, and opportunities in travel, like fares, have a habit of disappearing while you’re still deciding whether to take advantage of them.”

*Exchange rates correct as of 16 October 2026.

I recently had the privilege of joining a group of hospitality leaders for a candid discussion about the future of our industry, hosted between FUEL Online and FEDHASA, as well as various other industry engagements that I have attended over the past few weeks, and I wanted to share some observations.

Around the table in these conversations were operators, executives, academic doctors and professors and industry professionals who collectively represent thousands of employees, students and millions of guest interactions every year. While our businesses may differ, one theme emerged consistently throughout the conversation:

The future of hospitality will not be defined by technology, buildings or brands. It will be defined by people.

That may sound obvious in an industry built on service, yet many of the challenges currently facing hospitality stem from exactly that reality.

Across the country, employers are navigating a changing workforce landscape. Experienced employees are retiring, leaving the industry or pursuing opportunities elsewhere. New talent is entering our businesses full of potential, but often without the benefit of the mentorship and operational exposure that previous generations received.

At the same time, guest expectations continue to rise.

Guests today expect seamless technology, personalised service, immediate responses and memorable experiences. They want efficiency, but they also want genuine human connection.

The challenge for hospitality leaders is therefore not simply finding people.

It is developing people.

And that is where I believe some of our biggest opportunities lie.

South Africa Does Not Have a Talent Shortage

One of the most important takeaways from our discussion was that South Africa is not lacking talent.

What we often lack are the pathways that connect talent to opportunity.

As an industry, we frequently talk about skills shortages while operating in a country where millions of young people are actively seeking employment and career opportunities. The question we need to ask ourselves is whether we are doing enough collectively to bridge that gap.

• How do we expose young people to hospitality careers?
• How do we create meaningful workplace experiences?
• How do we ensure that education and industry remain aligned?
• How do we make career progression visible from the day somebody enters our industry?

These are not questions for individual businesses alone. They are questions for all of us as industry stakeholders.

Hospitality Must Become a Career of Choice

Hospitality offers something incredibly unique.

Few industries provide the same combination of human interaction, leadership development, entrepreneurship, international mobility and personal growth.

Yet many young people still see hospitality as a temporary job rather than a long-term career.

Changing that perception may be one of the most important responsibilities we have as industry leaders.

We need to celebrate the success stories more often.

We need to highlight the people who started as waiters, receptionists, porters, stewards and trainees and went on to become leaders and business owners.

I know this journey personally.

Having started my own career as an intern, I have seen first-hand what this industry can do when people are given opportunity, mentorship and support.

Hospitality changes lives.

We should never underestimate the impact our industry has on individuals, families and communities.

The Role of Technology in a People Business

No discussion about the future workforce is complete without talking about technology and artificial intelligence.

For some, AI creates uncertainty.

For me, it creates opportunity.

The reality is that hospitality has always evolved alongside technology. From reservation systems and online bookings to mobile check-in and guest apps, technology has consistently enhanced the way we operate.

Artificial intelligence is no different.

The future is not about replacing people with technology.

It is about empowering people with technology.

AI can assist with training, communication, knowledge sharing, translation, operational support and administrative tasks. It can help our people access information faster and perform their jobs more effectively.

But it cannot replicate genuine hospitality.

It cannot replace empathy or emotional intelligence.

And it certainly cannot replace the feeling a guest gets when they are welcomed by someone who truly cares.

The most successful businesses of the future will combine technology and human connection, not choose one over the other.

Rethinking Workforce Development

Another strong theme from our discussion was the need to evolve how we approach learning and development.

Traditional training methods still have a place, but the future requires more flexible, accessible and scalable solutions.

Learning needs to happen continuously.

It needs to happen on the floor, in real time and in ways that meet employees where they are.

Fortunately, we now have access to tools and platforms that can support learning in multiple languages, provide ongoing development opportunities and create more inclusive pathways into the industry.

The opportunity is not simply to train more people.

It is to train people better.

Our Greatest Opportunity

Despite the challenges discussed around skills development, labour mobility and workforce retention, the overall tone of the conversation was remarkably positive.

Why?

Because South Africa possesses something incredibly valuable.

• We have passionate people.
• We have a globally admired tourism offering.
• We have resilient businesses.
• And we have an industry that genuinely wants to create opportunity.

Rather than lamenting what has been lost, the task ahead is to invest in what can still be built.

If we can strengthen the pathways between education and employment, embrace technology responsibly, develop future leaders and continue investing in our people, I believe South Africa can build one of the most capable hospitality workforces anywhere in the world.

After all, hospitality has never been about buildings.

It has never been about systems.

It has always been about people.

And if we get that right, the future of our industry remains exceptionally bright.

Highlights include Market Buzz, where travel specialists will share insights from key international markets, sessions introducing buyers to Zanzibar’s tourism offering, and discussions on the environmental and community impact of tourism. Sports tourism will also feature, with an initiative involving Uganda’s Rwenzori Marathon.

The forum will officially open on 19 October at Diamonds Bijoux, with Zanzibar’s newly appointed Minister for Tourism and Heritage, Dr Nasra Nassor Omar, and her predecessor, Mudrik Ramadhan Soraga, expected as special guests. 

“Zanzibar’s tourism growth has been impressive, and we’re pleased to bring Essence of Africa here at a time when there’s so much interest in the destination,” says Amanda Margison, Co-Founder of Essence of Africa. “We’re honoured to welcome representatives of Zanzibar’s tourism sector and introduce our international travel partners to the people and businesses behind that success.”

Zanzibar takes centre stage

The content programme opens with Destination Zanzibar, sponsored by Profitroom. Moderated by Virginia Messina, Group CEO of ATTA®, the session will bring together representatives of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority and ENVI Lodges to discuss tourism development, investment opportunities and how new tourism products can be brought to market.

“Zanzibar has long captured the imagination of international travellers with its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and tropical charm,” says Hakeem Kimara, Head of Public Relations at the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism. “But beyond its celebrated coastline lies a destination offering far more: centuries of living history, authentic Swahili culture, exceptional culinary experiences, marine adventures and a growing portfolio of premium tourism products.

“For international tour operators, travel designers and luxury travel specialists attending Essence of Africa 2026, Zanzibar presents an opportunity to expand their product portfolios, reach different traveller segments and create memorable, high-value itineraries. Our message to travel buyers is simple: Zanzibar is not just a beach holiday. It is a complete travel experience waiting to be packaged, promoted and sold.”

Positive Impact explores tourism’s contribution to Zanzibar

Two Positive Impact sessions will introduce buyers to local businesses and organisations working to address environmental challenges and create opportunities for Zanzibar’s communities.

The first, sponsored by ResRequest and moderated by Joy Mbatau, Regional Hub Manager for East Africa at The Long Run, will feature Blue Impact Network, Chumbe Island, CHAKO Zanzibar and Msonge Organic Family Farm. The discussion will look at how tourism businesses are approaching conservation, waste management and local sourcing, and what their work means for the destination.

A second session, sponsored by SiteMinder, will introduce delegates to people behind some of Zanzibar’s local tourism experiences, looking at how these activities connect visitors with communities and contribute to local livelihoods.

Market Buzz brings international market insights to African suppliers

Market Buzz gives African tourism businesses the opportunity to hear directly from travel specialists selling African holidays in international and regional markets. Five sessions will examine changing customer demand, booking patterns and opportunities for African suppliers.

The Asia Pacific session, moderated by Rajay Singh, CEO of Safari Trails and Essence of Africa Advisory Panel member, will focus on India, China and Australia – discussing changing travel patterns, new demand and opportunities to attract repeat visitors.  

The Americas session will examine North America’s increasingly selective travellers and growing interest in Africa from Latin America. David DiGregorio of Re•think Travel Marketing and Andrea Landaeta of Sariri Terra will share their perspectives on these markets.

The Europe session, featuring Paddington Tucker of Travel Advance, will consider changing traveller expectations, pricing, sustainability and what African destinations need to do to remain competitive in one of their most established source regions.

The Middle East session, featuring Sadiq Dindar of AfriLuxe Tourism Advisory Services, will examine the different traveller segments within the region, including luxury and expatriate markets, and the role of air access and visas in converting interest into bookings.

The Africa session, moderated by Mohammed Hersi, Group Director of Operations at Pollmans Tours & Safaris and Essence of Africa Advisory Panel member, will focus on the potential of intra-African travel, bringing together perspectives from across the continent.

“Africa and the Middle East are often grouped together in tourism research, but they’re very different markets with different opportunities,” says Chris Mears, Co-Founder of Essence of Africa. “We’re really pleased to give Africa its own Market Buzz session this year. More Africans are travelling within the continent, and that’s an important market to develop, particularly as regional travel can help cushion destinations against global events that disrupt international tourism.”

Sports tourism offers opportunities for African destinations

With Africa preparing to host several major international sporting events, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup and the 2029 World Athletics Championships in Nairobi, tourism businesses have opportunities to attract visiting fans and encourage them to explore the host destinations.

Essence of Africa has partnered with Uganda’s Rwenzori Marathon to introduce delegates to running tourism through a 5km beach walk and 10km beach run on Wednesday, 21 October, at 6am. Rwenzori Marathon founder and Essence of Africa Advisory Panel member Amos Wekesa will lead the event and share his experience of developing a sporting event that attracts international visitors.

Essence of Africa 2026 has 162 confirmed exhibitors, up 53% since the first edition, and 178 international buyers from 40 countries. Buyers come from Europe (39%), the Americas (23%), Asia Pacific (19%), Africa (18%) and the Middle East (2%). 75% are new to the forum, giving exhibitors access to new international trade contacts. Of the exhibitors, 79% are from East Africa and 21% from the rest of the continent. Accommodation providers make up the largest group (61%), alongside DMCs, tour operators, experience providers, transport providers and tourism bodies. Seventy-seven of the buyers are taking part in pre-show familiarisation trips across Zanzibar.