Tourism Boosts South Africa’s Economy Says President Ramaphosa

Pretoria: President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the significant role of tourism in South Africa's economic growth, stating the government's commitment to enhancing the regulatory and policy framework to further develop the sector. According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa addressed the nation through his weekly newsletter, following the Tourism Department's announcement of a record-breaking 10.48 million international visitors in the past year, marking a 17.6% increase from 2024. This surge in international arrivals surpasses pre-COVID-19 levels and is seen as a strong endorsement of South Africa's appeal as a safe and affordable tourism destination. President Ramaphosa emphasized the government's determination to deepen collaboration with private sector stakeholders, labor, and other partners to strengthen the industry further. The President noted that tourism currently contributes nearly 9% to the South African GDP. Initiatives like the expansion of the Electronic Travel Authorisation system and the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme are underway to enhance the sector's performance. These efforts aim to streamline visa processes, improve connectivity with new direct flight routes, and ensure tourist safety with additional tourism monitors and a private sector crime call center. President Ramaphosa also highlighted the importance of improving tourism infrastructure, citing the launch of eight projects valued at R1 billion during the Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit. Strategic destination marketing and a focus on niche markets like halal and green tourism are ongoing efforts to attract a diverse range of visitors. The President urged citizens to support the growing tourism industry, encouraging them to become tourism ambassadors. Initiatives such as fully funded Mandarin language training for tourism guides and support programs for industry transformation are part of this effort. President Ramaphosa concluded by emphasizing the collective role of government, communities, a nd tour operators in maximizing the potential of South Africa's tourism sector, a vital contributor to the country's foreign earnings, local businesses, and job creation.