In a recent statement, newly appointed Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, and Deputy Minister, Maggie Sotyu, have pledged their dedication to fostering partnerships aimed at bolstering the growth of South Africa’s tourism sector. This announcement follows their swearing-in as part of the 7th administration.
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Minister de Lille emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and private sector to sustain and enhance the tourism industry’s recovery and growth. “The tourism sector is thriving, with solid rebounds evidenced by increased tourist arrivals over the past year,” she stated.
Impressive Growth in Tourism
Between January and December 2023, South Africa welcomed 8.4 million international arrivals, with a significant portion, 6.5 million, coming from the African continent. This upward trend has continued into 2024, with nearly 3.8 million arrivals recorded between January and May, marking a 9.7% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Over 2.8 million of these visitors were from Africa, with growth also seen from markets in Europe, Central and South America, China, and India, according to StatsSA.
South Africa’s global reputation as a premier tourist destination has been reinforced by several accolades and awards in 2023.
Commitment to Continued Growth
Expressing her dedication to her role, Minister de Lille said,
I am deeply honoured to continue serving the people of our beautiful South Africa. The work continues in earnest, and the Deputy Minister and I are ready and charged to work with the entire tourism sector to elevate tourism performance. Government cannot do it alone, so we will continue collaborating with the private sector to boost tourism arrival numbers and the sector’s contribution to economic growth and job creation.
Deputy Minister Sotyu echoed this sentiment, highlighting her enthusiasm for the sector’s potential. “I am thrilled to continue serving my country and the people of South Africa in the exciting and growing tourism sector. I look forward to working with Minister de Lille and all tourism partners to grow tourism to its full potential,” she said.
Strategic Priorities for the Future
The key priorities outlined by Minister de Lille and Deputy Minister Sotyu include:
- Growing tourism arrival numbers by effectively marketing South Africa as a prime travel destination and diversifying tourism offerings.
- Supporting tourism businesses through the R1.2 billion Tourism Equity Fund and the Tourism Transformation Fund.
- Enhancing efficiency and climate resilience in tourism businesses via the Green Tourism Incentive Programme.
- Improving tourism safety through the National Tourism Safety Forum.
- Streamlining visa processes in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs and key source markets.
- Enhancing efficiencies with Tour Operator Licenses in partnership with the Department of Transport and the tourism sector.
- Focusing on township and village tourism development.
- Learning from international best practices to elevate South Africa’s status as a leading destination.
Minister de Lille concluded by expressing gratitude to the tourism sector for their contributions and ongoing efforts.
I want to thank the entire tourism sector for all their hard work and achievements in growing our tourism performance, and I want to thank them in advance for the work we will continue doing as partners. Our focus must be on delivery and taking our work to the next level. Thank you for all the well wishes, and I look forward to continuing our work in the 7th administration.
