TBCSA Tourism Leadership Conference: Strengthening partnerships to ensure tourism growth

The Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) successfully hosted its second Tourism Leadership event at Sun City last week. The conference served as a platform for collaboration among a diverse array of participants, including public and private stakeholders, dignitaries, guests, and delegates, all of whom play vital roles in the local and global tourism industry.

The conference, operating under the theme ‘Tourism: The Engine for Growth’, provided a forum for in-depth discussions regarding the current state of tourism in South Africa and included some key takeaways:

• As of July 2023, arrivals had already reached 4.8 million, indicating steady growth.
• Strong partnership with the Department of Tourism, led by Minister Patricia De Lille, has advanced collective tourism growth goals in both sectors.
• Collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs, guided by Minister Dr. Pakishe Aaron Motsoaledi, is progressing well, focusing on an efficient e-visa system and expanding e-visa statuses.
• Efforts to improve the issuance of tourism vehicle operating licenses are underway, with Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga urging fairness in July.
• Security challenges persist, prompting collaboration with law enforcement authorities, leading to the launch of the SECURA tourist safety application on August 31, 2023.
• R174 million allocated by the Department of Tourism for deploying tourism monitors in local hotspots.
• Focus on fostering partnerships with local governments to create a conducive environment for private sector operations.
• Prioritising national air access, efforts are made to connect major and smaller airports and address digital declaration issues.
• Commitment to educating communities about tourism benefits and seeking collaboration for mutual growth.
• Investment in tourism development and infrastructure to enhance safety, empower communities, and stimulate economic growth.
• Dedication to strengthening private-public partnerships, especially in key growth markets.

Read the full statement by the TBCSA here and view highlights from the conference here.