INDABA 2009 Opening Ceremony

We are here in Durban for the opening ceremony for INDABA 2009 – the excitement in the air is palpable. As we are here representing tourism – we know this is probably the biggest and most important INDABA to date.

This is the 30th year of INDABA and it takes place against a backdrop of global uncertainty – the world is hurting and wondering if there is a viable future for tourism. For South Africa, the Confederations cup is round the corner, just a month away and 2010 is on everyone’s mind.

The message from South African Tourism is clear – it is that South Africa is ready. Everyone who comes will take home a personal story of South Africa and it is up to us, to make sure they have a story to tell.

The ceremony

The opening ceremony was an extravaganza and celebration showcasing South Africa’s rhythm in addition to hearing from industry principals on trends and forecasts for the coming year.

The whole theatre was celebrating Africa with the Drakensberg Boys Choir instilling the love of a country. Diski dancers expressed the passion for football. Buyers and sellers, media and guests all getting involved, literally dancing to the rhythm of Africa.

The climax of the show came with Didi Moyle introducing the first airing of South African Tourism’s commercial for 2010 featuring Diski dancers – the story is get out there and join in the fun – everyone can participate. Applause started halfway through the 60 second advertisement, with whistles and roars culminating in shattering approval at the end.

The opening ceremony was intense with emotion, with everyone leaving the theatre with belief that, with the collective efforts of an entire country, South Africa really is ready to host the world’s biggest sporting event.

South Africa is ready to take centre stage – “It’s time to come, to celebrate, to score”

Click here to see the photos of the event.