Benin has been confirmed as the host country for the 2027 Black Travel Summit, with the event slated to take place in Cotonou. The announcement was made during the Black Travel Awards Gala held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on 17 October 2026. This marks the first time the summit will be held in Africa, expanding its geographic reach and focus.
Founded in 2019 in the United States by Anita Moreau, the Black Travel Summit has previously convened in Rio de Janeiro in 2025 and in Milwaukee in 2026. The 2027 summit will be organised in partnership with Benin Tourism. Benin’s selection
followed initial discussions between the country’s tourism authorities and summit organisers at the 2025 Rio de Janeiro event.
Travel Statistics on Black American Leisure Travellers
Research from the Black Travel Alliance and MMGY Travel Intelligence indicates that Black American leisure travelers made 184.12 million trips in 2023. These travelers contributed an estimated US$145 billion in spending throughout that year, highlighting their significant economic impact on the global travel market.
Summit Focus on Africa-Diaspora Connectivity and Collaboration
The 2027 Black Travel Summit aims to enhance business exchanges and collaboration within the global Black travel community. A key objective is to strengthen connections between Africa and the global diaspora by fostering cross-border partnerships and expanding market
development opportunities. The event will serve as a platform to advance diversity and representation in the travel industry through international exchange.
