Why tourism is such a big player in South Africa
Tourism plays a critical role in sustainable economic growth and job creation, thus helping to garner a sense of pride, accomplishment and unity among South Africans.
25/09/2024
The theme for World Tourism Day 2024 is
Tourism and Peace, and rightfully so with the
amount of negativity and ongoing tension in the
world right now. The pursuit of peace is a
continuing endeavour, and progress through
tourism is more relevant than ever.
Tourism can play a vital role as a catalyst for
fostering peace and understanding between
nations and cultures and in supporting
reconciliation processes. Tourism also plays a
critical role in sustainable economic growth and
job creation, thus helping to garner a sense of
pride, accomplishment and unity among South
Africans.
Expansion is needed
"Tourism already plays a massive role in the
South African economy, but that role could be
significantly bigger if a couple of key issues
could be addressed collaboratively between
government and stakeholders in the tourism and
hospitality sector,” says Anton Gillis, CEO of
Hospitality Asset Management Company (HAMAC)..
“Specifically, the capacity on inbound
flights - we need more flights and especially
more direct flights between major international
destinations and South Africa. Furthermore, visa
requirements for South Africa need to be
critically assessed and systems put in place to
make the process simpler and more cost
effective. The unemployment rate in the country
is sitting at around 32% and we know that more
tourists mean more jobs, so removing the barrier
- such as this visa issue - should be top
priority.
“Tourism Month needs to be -
above all - an opportunity for ongoing dialogue
and debate on the measures, policies and vision
needed to grow the sector to the benefit of far
more South Africans," says Gillis
A tool for sustained change
Tourism plays a crucial role in the growth of
economies around the world - contributing to.job
creation, the strengthening of communities, the
development of infrastructure and the
conservation of the environment. At its core,
investment into tourism creates much needed
awareness around deeper, pressing issues faced
by countries.
Relate Bracelets, a 100%
NPO, recognises the importance of tourism as a
tool for driving sustained change. In an effort
to do their part, the organisation has partnered
with many beneficiaries such as Elephants Alive,
Ikamva Labantu, The Amy Foundation, Blind
Loyalty, and so much more who do incredible work
on the ground in South Africa to support
conservation efforts as well as local vulnerable
communities.
“South Africa’s vibrant
landscapes, diverse cultures, and rich history
offer something extraordinary to every
traveller. But the true magic lies in how we, as
custodians, use tourism as a powerful force for
good. From safeguarding our incredible wildlife
to empowering young people in under-resourced
communities, we have the responsibility—and the
privilege—to drive meaningful change. Every
visitor, every story shared, and every action
taken helps build a brighter, more sustainable
future for all,” says Dalit Shekel, CEO of
Relate Bracelets.
Bridging social and cultural gaps
“We have seen that tourism fosters
inclusivity and unity by creating opportunities
for people from different cultures, backgrounds,
and regions to interact and engage in meaningful
exchanges. It celebrates diversity by showcasing
unique cultures, traditions, and perspectives,
which promotes understanding, tolerance, and
respect for others,” says Dominique van Wezop
General Manager at Radisson Hotel & Convention
Centre, Johannesburg, O.R. Tambo Airport.
“By connecting individuals from diverse
backgrounds, tourism helps bridge social and
cultural gaps, breaking down stereotypes and
fostering empathy. Moreover, it plays a crucial
role in economic empowerment by creating jobs
and opportunities, particularly for marginalised
communities, thus promoting both social and
economic inclusion.”
According to Wezop,
the shared experiences that tourism
offers—whether through travel, cultural
festivals, or interactions with local
communities—unite people around common interests
and create a sense of belonging.
“Tourism also helps to facilitate cultural
exchange, which enables the transfer of ideas,
knowledge, and traditions. This, in turn,
enriches societies and fosters a broader global
perspective that embraces diversity and
cooperation,” she concludes.