Eswatini has clinched the coveted Most Responsible Stand Award at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025, solidifying its growing reputation as a leading force in sustainable tourism. The award, presented at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, recognizes Eswatini’s forward-thinking approach to eco-conscious travel promotion.
Tourism and Environmental Affairs Minister Jane Mkhonta-Simelane accepted the award on behalf of the country’s tourism stakeholders currently participating in the international event hosted in Cape Town. She leads the delegation showcasing Eswatini as an unforgettable travel destination rich in culture and natural beauty.
The Eswatini Tourism Authority (ETA) was commended for its creatively designed stand, built almost entirely from reused and recycled materials. According to ETA’s acting CEO, Dudu Mdluli-Dlamini, the structure was constructed using materials from previous exhibitions, including last year’s WTM Africa, and will be reused again at the upcoming Africa Travel Indaba in Durban, scheduled for May 12–15, 2025.
“We followed the principles of reducing waste, reusing the same materials, and recycling,” said Mdluli-Dlamini. “It’s a proud moment. We were up against major players in the industry, and this win shows that even a small country like ours can lead with impact. Truly, dynamites come in small packages.”
Eswatini’s display not only reused sustainable materials but also incorporated creative elements that symbolized the nation’s values. A standout feature was a map of Africa crafted entirely from wine corks, serving as a striking visual representation of the continent’s interconnectedness and shared duty to protect its cultural and environmental heritage.
