ATLF moves to Limpopo, as Polokwane sets to host global delegates in September

The Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) and Awards is entering another exciting chapter yet as it heads to Polokwane, the vibrant heart of the Limpopo Province of South Africa, which is a 3-hour drive or 50-minute flight from the OR Tambo Airport, Johannesburg.

The choice of the Limpopo Province, and specifically the bustling city of Polokwane, as the host city for 2026 ATLF & Awards was jointly announced recently by the organisers of the forum, including; Africa Tourism Partners (ATP), UN Tourism, BDO and all others partners.

The transition, according to them, marks a significant milestone for the forum, bringing the conversation to a region renowned for its rich cultural heritage and incredible biodiversity.

The organisers also noted that Polokwane, the host city, provides the perfect backdrop for essential discussions on sustainable growth, intra-Africa travel, and tourism investment.

“African tourism, hospitality, travel, aviation, academic and all other Industry professionals should start preparing travel to the City of Polokwane, Limpopo Province, South Africa for this “one and only” Pan-African industry thought-leadership platform,” they urged.

They also assured that the ATLF 2026 would seamlessly blend high-level policy dialogue, business connections and deal-making with the authentic and soul-stirring warmth of South African hospitality

Also, given the rapid evolution of the programme of the forum, all global and Pan-African stakeholders are encouraged to monitor African Tourism Partners and ATLF social media pages for forthcoming updates, speaker announcements, and venue highlights.

ATP, which is also the organisers of the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge, has also assured that applications for the 2026 challenge would be opening soon. Hence, it is placing a direct call to action for anyone, especially African youth innovators in the tourism industry with a tech-driven solution, a sustainable travel startup, or a disruptive idea that can change how the world experiences the African continent.

“This year is bigger and more impactful than ever before,” ATP said. “We are thrilled to introduce a comprehensive 6-week learning sprint specifically designed to equip young entrepreneurs ahead of their formal applications. This intensive incubator period will provide mentorship, business modelling workshops, and pitch-refinement sessions to ensure that every participant has the tools to succeed. Stay tuned for the official application link and prepare yourself to pitch your way to the top of the industry.”