Based on the huge success of its 2025 debut, WAA Local will return in the supercharged format from May 4-5, 2026. It is now extended to a day and a half of pre-scheduled meetings, strategic networking and strong local channel engagement.
Following incredible industry feedback and months of engagement, the expanded 2026 format is designed to deepen connections and provide exhibitors with greater scope and access to Southern Africa's most influential trade experts.
What's new for 2026?
The Enhanced We Are Africa Local program includes:
1. In a 5-day expanded format, at the start of We Are Africa week 2026, WAA Local Diary 2 Networking Lunch 1 Pitch Side Party at DHL Stadium increased to 21 schedules. Honoring local heroes
WAA Local 2026 offers an unusual opportunity for 250 local travel experts to connect with the leading travel brands of the continent. This is where African travel tribes gather to celebrate the local spirit and advance the African travel industry with pride, purpose and presence.
“Last year was an opportunity to prove the concept and give everyone a taste of what they expect. The WAA local shows its value and has emerged in itself as a highly specialized trade fair. Ryan Wallace, MD & Co-Founder, we are Africa.
What the tribes had to say in 2025:
“Amazing experience, great buyers, loved the WAA local event – Super Initiative” Roberto Viviani, legendary expedition & chemchem safari
“It's a great initiative and really good to connect with the inbound sector, especially after meeting agents in the source market,” Walter Smith, Kerr & Downey Botswana
“It was amazing, connecting and meeting many suppliers was so great that it was not normally accessible,” Olivia Burton Barber, Unmoving Africa.
“WAA Local was a complete success. As a DMC, it gave us the opportunity to meet with trading partners who often struggle to meet all year round during the week already dedicated to trade and travel.” Alex Latin, traveling.
“I thought it was really great. It had a great energy. It had a very insightful meeting and was very well organized.” Kim Anderson, Singa
We will again be held in 2026 Africa Region, from Monday, May 5, 2026 at DHL Stadium in Cape Town from Monday, May 5, 2026, offering exhibitors the opportunity to meet hundreds of African-based trade experts, including top African agents, DMC owners, contract managers and product managers.
