Navigating the complex world of business travel has never been more important, and the 15th Global Business Travel Association of South Africa (GBTASA) Conference provided African businesses with the tools and knowledge to do just that.
The event, which concluded last week, went beyond exploring industry trends, equipping attendees with strategies to mitigate risk and ensure business continuity in an increasingly unpredictable travel landscape.
This year saw a surge in attendance from across the continent, reflecting Africa's growing influence in the global business travel sector. Industry professionals from various African nations convened to share insights, forge connections, and address the evolving nature of supplier relationships in a volatile world.
"In today's environment, a transactional approach to suppliers isn't just outdated – it's potentially dangerous," warned Kamogelo Maerman, FCM National Sales Leader. His message resonated with attendees, highlighting the need for partnership-based approaches to travel management.
Maerman explained that travel management was no longer just about cost control. "Flight cancellations, border closures – these aren't mere inconveniences," he said. "They pose serious threats to business continuity and, in some cases, to personal safety."
Despite these challenges, Maerman pointed to advancements in crisis management systems within the industry. "When a natural disaster strikes or political unrest erupts, our global network springs into action," he explained. "We're not just rebooking flights; we're orchestrating complex evacuations and providing on-the-ground support in real-time."
The event also celebrated individual achievements within the industry, with recognition given to the top travel buyer, supplier and TMC of 2024, as reported by Travel News.
As the conference drew to a close, Maerman reflected on its broader significance for the continent. "The increased presence of delegates from across Africa signals a shift," he observed. "Africa is poised to play a more significant role in shaping global business travel norms."
He concluded by emphasising the importance of such gatherings for the African business travel community. "In an industry as dynamic as ours, these conferences are more than networking events.
"They're incubators for innovation and collaboration. By bringing together travel managers, TMCs, and suppliers from across Africa, we're not just discussing the future of business travel – we're actively shaping it."
