South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed his commitment to harnessing the country’s tourism potential to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
In his weekly newsletter, he celebrated South Africa’s breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage as key assets that attract millions of visitors annually.
“This is a time of year when we get to appreciate why our country is such an attractive destination for visitors,” Ramaphosa said. “Our natural splendor and heritage are integral parts of our economy, drawing millions of tourists to our shores each year.” 
Iconic Attractions Lead South Africa’s Tourism Sector
Ramaphosa highlighted Robben Island as a premier tourism landmark during his visit to celebrate the African National Congress party’s 113th anniversary. He emphasized the site’s significance alongside other top attractions, such as Table Mountain and Kruger National Park.
South Africa is also home to 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Cradle of Humankind, which boasts one of the world’s largest concentrations of Hominid fossils.
According to the World Economic Forum, South Africa ranks as Africa’s premier tourism destination due to its robust tourism infrastructure and business-friendly environment.
Tourism Sector Bounces Back Post-COVID
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, South Africa’s tourism sector has shown a remarkable rebound. In 2023, international tourist arrivals reached 8.5 million, generating over 95 billion rand (approximately 5 billion U.S. dollars). Domestic tourism also flourished, with South Africans making over 21 million trips between January and July.
Ramaphosa acknowledged the sector’s recovery and emphasized its potential for further growth, stating, “Our tourism sector has the potential to be even larger than it currently is.”
Scaling Up Tourism Promotion Strategies
The government is scaling up efforts to restore tourism to pre-pandemic levels. These initiatives include:
- Streamlining the tourism visa process.
- Simplifying tour operator licensing.
- Increasing investment in tourism infrastructure.
- Enhancing safety and security at tourism sites.
Additionally, hosting the first-ever G20 Summit on African soil in 2025 will provide an opportunity to promote South Africa as a leading tourism destination.
Tourism as a Catalyst for Job Creation and Development
The G20 Summit will highlight the role of tourism in driving economic growth and sustainable development, particularly for Global South countries.
Ramaphosa noted, “By working together as government, business, and communities, we can ensure that the natural splendor of our country becomes a driver of economic growth, job creation, and shared prosperity.”
South Africa’s strategic focus on its tourism sector positions it as a key player in creating jobs and advancing inclusive development while preserving its rich natural and cultural heritage.
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