South Africa Tourism has appointed Corne Koch to head the National Convention Bureau (SANCB) business unit, effective 1 December. SANCB secured 35 bids in the first half of 2025, valued at R415 million (US$24.1m) and attracting nearly 16 000 delegates to the country.
Koch brings almost 20 years of experience in tourism destination marketing and promotion and most recently served as head of the Cape Town and Western Cape Convention Bureau at Wesgro.
“I am honoured to join the SANCB and to continue its role in strengthening South Africa as the continent’s premier home for business events,” said Koch. “Business events are powerful drivers of economic and knowledge growth for a destination, extending far beyond tourism. Our industry thrives because of passionate professionals across government, academia and industry who contribute to the growth of this sector.”
SA Tourism Acting CEO and COO Darryl Erasmus said the appointment came at a key moment for the DMO. “Strengthening leadership within our organisation is vital as we move into a defining era for SA Tourism. The appointment of our new chief convention bureau officer demonstrates our commitment to building a strong, capable, and visionary executive team. Her leadership comes at an ideal time as we prepare for the 20th edition of Meetings Africa in February and Africa’s Travel Indaba in May, two flagship events that showcase the best of Africa’s tourism and business events sectors,” said Erasmus.
SA Tourism is showcasing its business events sector and capabilities at IBTM World in Barcelona from 18-20 November and the country will host the G20 Leaders’ Summit, 22-23 November.