Building on the resounding success of its 2025 debut, WAA Local will return in a supercharged format from Monday 4 May –lunchtime Tuesday 5 May 2026; now extended to a full day and a half of pre-scheduled meetings, strategic networking, and powerful local channel engagement.

Following phenomenal industry feedback and several months of engagement, the expanded 2026 format is designed to deepen connections and give exhibitors even greater reach and access to Southern Africa’s most influential trade professionals.

What’s new for 2026?

The enhanced We Are Africa Local programme includes:

• An expanded format over 1.5 days, at the start of the We Are Africa 2026 week

• Increased to 21 appointments per WAA Local diary

• 2 Networking lunches

• 1 pitchside party at DHL Stadium

• WAA Local Awards - honouring our local heroes!

WAA Local 2026 offers a rare opportunity for 250 local travel professionals to connect with the continent’s leading travel brands. This is where Africa’s travel tribe gathers to honour local spirit and drive Africa’s travel industry forward with pride, purpose and presence. Calling all product managers and consultants from local DMC’s, as well locally based high-end agents - this is your opportunity to connect with Africa’s top luxury suppliers and benefit from up to 21 pre-scheduled appointments and networking opportunities.

Exhibitors please note: If you have a travel division within your business and would like a member of your team to attend this day as a buyer to meet the other exhibitors, please email weareafrica@thisisbeyond.com and one of our buyer team will be in touch with more details.

For more information, get in touch with the team today.