Collaboration Innovation for the Tourisms in SA

South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, highlighted the remarkable growth of tourism in South Africa during the official launch of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2023.

She emphasized the need for collaboration and innovation to drive further growth in the sector. While competition plays a crucial role in destination marketing and tourism, Minister de Lille emphasized the importance of balanced collaboration to foster healthy competition based on quality and innovation, avoiding unhealthy practices.

The Indaba event showcased exhibitors from 21 African countries, including 10 tourism boards and 123 Small Businesses sponsored by the Department of Tourism, reflecting efforts to promote transformation in the industry with an investment of R11.7 million.

Minister de Lille stressed the significance of harmonizing visa regimes and simplifying the application process to unlock Africa’s tourism potential. She mentioned that South Africa has been at the forefront, leading the way with visa waivers for several African countries and the introduction of an e-visa system for countries like Kenya, Nigeria, and Egypt. The Minister revealed plans to expand the e-visa system to 20 additional countries, making Africa an even more attractive destination for both Africans and international travelers.

Highlighting the growth of tourism in South Africa, Minister de Lille mentioned that the country experienced a substantial increase in tourist arrivals from January to December 2022, with nearly 5.8 million arrivals, including over 4 million from African countries. This represents an overall inbound increase of 152.6% compared to the same period in 2021.

Minister de Lille called for Africans to come together and celebrate their shared heritage, aiming to bridge the gaps of geography, language, and culture. She emphasized the importance of promoting cultural exchanges, celebrating diversity through music, dance, and cuisine, and breaking down stereotypes to make Africa an irresistible destination for international tourists.

Looking towards the future, Minister de Lille expressed optimism, stating that Africa has weathered the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and should use this experience to surpass their targets. She viewed Africa’s Travel Indaba as an opportunity to recognize the incredible ingenuity, resilience, and magnificence of the African people.

Mayor of Durban Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda expressed his honor in hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba 2023, highlighting the event’s significance as a premier trade show in Africa. He revealed that Durban’s post-Covid recovery focus lies in meetings, conferences, workshops, exhibitions, and business travel. Recent statistics indicate that the tourism sector in Durban is projected to recover to 95% of 2019 job levels.

Addressing safety and security concerns, Mayor Kaunda announced the implementation of strict security measures, including the annual recruitment of 400 Metro Police Officers and collaborations with community crime-fighting structures and business forums.

He also mentioned major investment projects such as the R600 million Platinum Walk at Oceans Mall and the R8 billion Westown development, which are expected to contribute to local tourism growth.

Mayor Kaunda emphasized cooperation with the private sector to offer affordable prices and boost tourism. He highlighted upcoming international events like the World Table Tennis Championship Finals and the Hollywoodbets Durban July Experience, which are anticipated to attract thousands of visitors and contribute to the sector’s recovery.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube underscored the role of tourism in driving the province’s economic recovery, creating employment opportunities, and reducing inequality. She warmly welcomed all visitors to KwaZulu-Natal and expressed her delight in announcing Durban as the permanent home of Africa’s Travel Indaba, 40 years after its launch.

Siboniso Duma, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, emphasized that Africa’s Travel Indaba presents a unique opportunity to shape the future of Africa by fostering connections over the course of the event. He highlighted the crucial role of the event in expanding tourism across the continent while positioning South Africa and the KwaZulu-Natal province as prominent destinations in Africa and the world.

Source: bizcommunity