The finalisation of the White Paper is a milestone for the tourism sector as it will provide guidance to the next phase of tourism development and ensure that the country as a tourism destination moves towards reaching its full potential. The policy envisages a sustainable, competitive and inclusive tourism sector that leverages on innovation, digital technology, addresses barriers to tourism growth, builds partnerships and responds to the social imperatives of the country.​

​It is a privilege and honour to address you on this special occasion of the third Tourism Leadership Conference. Congratulations are in order. 

​I have therefore written to the SAT Board Chairperson, Ms Makhosazana Khanyile and Deputy Chairperson, Adv. Lizelle Dominique Jordaan on 9 September 2024 to inform them of their removal from these positions, effective immediately. They will retain their positions as ordinary board members.​

​The Working for Tourism sub-programme incorporates the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) from which the skills projects are funded. Youth training is integral to drive growth and recovery of the tourism sector, we need to boost the talent pool.​

The engagement will commemorate the contribution of women in the tourism sector, and will share information on the Department’s capacity and empowerment programmes with a view to encourage women to actively participate in initiatives that will improve their career and business prospects.​

​Ladies and Gentlemen, I am immensely pleased to be here in the beautiful Northern Cape Province to launch our Tourism Month 2024. ​

During the 7th administration, our mission is to elevate the profile of tourism as a key driver of economic growth and job creation as identified in the National Development Plan and the Tourism Sector Master Plan.​

We are determined to deliver growth in the tourism sector that is characterised by increase in tourist arrivals, improved length of stay as well as geographic spread that sees tourism benefits shared across the breadth of our country.  This growth must improve the sector’s contribution to economic and create jobs. ​

“These are amazing achievements for our establishments who often feature as top attractions in global travel and tourism lists and awards. I want to congratulate these establishments for this achievement and thank all the staff members for their hard work in keeping South African establishments to the highest standards and on global awards lists. Our people are our most valuable asset and they are the driving force behind what makes South Africa a top travel destination,” Minister de Lille said. ​

As part of the Department of Tourism’s Incentive Programme, Minister Patricia de Lille has approved the department providing financial support of around R6million to 25 South African businesses to travel to and exhbit at international tourism trade shows.​

At the opening of the first democratic Parliament in 1994, President Nelson Mandela said, “Freedom cannot be achieved unless women have been emancipated from all forms of oppression… Our endeavours must be about the liberation of the woman, the emancipation of the man and the liberty of the child”.​​

Visitors will now be able to get to the Kruger National Park much easier. This is indeed a significant lever towards the tourism sector’s efforts to grow tourism’s contribution to the economy,” Minister de Lille said.​

​As we commence the 7^th administration, our mission is to elevate the profile of tourism by supporting efforts to grow the sector and demonstrating this growth and the sector’s impact on the economy and communities. ​

​Following the swearing in of Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille and Deputy Minister, Maggie Sotyu, the Minister and Deputy Minister have affirmed their commitment to leading the Department of Tourism and working with all tourism sector partners to achieve continued growth of the tourism sector.

​“We are extremely pleased with this ranking as it affirms our commitment and work to elevate the significance and contribution of the tourism sector in South Africa. The tourism sector has achieved robust growth over the past year and this is due to closer partnerships and collaborations with the private sector to grow tourism to its full potential,” Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille said.

​​Allow me to extend my sincere appreciation to all of you for gracing this 2024 Tourism Africa Travel Indaba during the Africa Month, where we celebrate the rebooted future of tourism industry and Africa’s excellence.​

​Programme Director, let me express my gratitude for an honour bestowed on me to address you on this third instalment of the Indaba Tourism Investment Seminar, on the sidelines of this Africa’s prestigious travel and tourism showpiece.

​The Basic Qualification Verification (BQV) programme, implemented by the Tourism Grading Council of SA (TGCSA) focuses specifically on support for Homestays and other emerging tourism products in Villages, Town, Small Dorpies (VTSD).​

​​It is great to be here again at the 2024 Africa’s Travel Indaba in this wonderful city of Durban and province of Kwa Zulu-Natal province.​

​Programme Director it gives me an immense pleasure to stand before you today and be part of the 2024 Africa’s Travel Indaba Business Opportunity Networking Day, commonly known as BONDAY.

​​In the interest of transparency, I wish to update the public on a matter where I had recently been made aware of a number of irregular payments which were made through South African Tourism’s United States of America and South Africa offices for services not rendered.

​Let me appreciate the great opportunity of sharing these few remarks here in Khayelitsha, which is a one of the largest townships in this country as well as the Western Cape Province.

​Today, together with the Mayor of the Cape Agulhas Municipality, Paul Swart, the Deputy Mayor of the Overberg District Municipality, Cllr Helen Coetzee and other Councillors from the region, Minister de Lille visited the Lighthouse Precinct project in the Cape Agulhas National Park.

​CAPE TOWN – The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr Fish Mahlalela will lead a delegation to Khayelitsha in the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality to conduct a Tourism Community Engagement on Tuesday, 26 March 2024.

​As part of the Tourism Sector Master Plan’s objectives to stimulate demand by investing in attractive tourism offerings, the Department of Tourism is conducting a number of tourism infrastructure projects across the country.

​The Minister looks forward to working with the new leadership to continue marketing South Africa as a world class tourist destination and to grow tourism arrivals and the country’s tourism offering. This will in turn support the objectives of the Tourism Sector Master Plan and the country’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery plan​.

​Today, twenty-five chefs from the Western Cape Province are enthusiastically looking forward to exploring new and rewarding work prospects in the culinary field as they graduate from the Department’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)  programme for Chefs.

​Let me express my sincere appreciation for being part of this memorable event to celebrate sheer determination and human resilience in the quest for holistic development.

​The recent official release of international arrival figures by Statistics South Africa for January to December 2023 underscores the rising momentum of South Africa's tourism sector. International tourist arrivals from January to December 2023 totalled 8.5 million, representing a remarkable 48.9% increase when compared with same period in 2022. ​

South Africa remains an attractive destination, for both domestic and international travellers. The numbers show that the tourism sector is successfully driving travel to South Africa while shaping cultural exchanges and contributing to inclusive economic growth.​

​As we look forward to a bumper summer tourism season and the global tourism sector's recovery moves rapidly, we are pleased to welcome the return of the Saudi Airlines direct flight between Jeddah and Johannesburg starting this month.​

​Let me from the onset express warm greetings from the people and the government of the Republic of South Africa and also appreciate this special occasion to address you while geopolitics complexities are threatening the global peace and we hope with the strengthening and transforming of world multilateral bodies we can bring back hope for peace.

​It is my singular honour indeed to share with you, warm compliments and gratitude from our people and government back in South Africa in this event as we collaborate with our SA Embassy in Kenya.

​The South African Department of Tourism in collaboration with the South African High Commission in Nairobi will host an engagement session with various members of the diplomatic community on advancing tourism in the region.

The primary goal of this collaboration is to harness Google's technological expertise to support the Ministry of Tourism's efforts in promoting South Africa as a prime tourist destination. The partnership aims to facilitate knowledge sharing, skills development, and the use of digital tools to enhance tourism experiences and sustainability.​

In line with the Department of Tourism’s work to enhance the use of technology to market South Africa’s tourism offering, on Monday, 13 November 2023, Minister Patricia de Lille will sign an agreement with Google which will see the Ministry of Tourism and the digital platform collaborate on several areas of work. ​

​Programme Director, let me express my profound appreciation to all of you for being part of this extra ordinary event, the National Tourism Careers Expo (NTCE) 2023, which celebrates its 13th anniversary this year.

​The Deputy Minister of Tourism Mr. Fish Mahlalela will host an Imbizo to engagement the community in the Kannaland Local Municipality in the Western Cape Province on advancing rural and community-centric tourism.  

We are here today, to take hands and act on our collective mission and that is to look forward and break through the barriers that inhibit the growth and potential of tourism in South Africa.​

The Secura App connects travellers and tourism stakeholders to hundreds of service providers when every second counts. The service providers are ready and equipped to assist in any situation. In addition to the Secura app, a hotline number has been set up that can further assist to speed up response times. The hotline number is +27 (0) 83 318 2475.​​

The numbers speak for themselves. South Africa remains an attractive destination, for both domestic and international travellers. The country draws travellers with its unique blend of nature, culture, and history. In a promising sign for the country’s tourism recovery, international tourist arrivals from January to July 2023 totalled 4.8 million.​

​It gives me a great pleasure to extend warm greetings and best wishes of the Government and the people of South Africa to the Government and People of Jamaica on this auspicious occasion.

We welcome the developments that SANTACO and the Western Cape Government and City of Cape Town officials have reached an agreement and hope that all parties do all they can to implement the agreement peacefully with no further disruptions, damage to infrastructure and attacks on people. ​

I would like to convey my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the tourist who was killed in this incident.  I plead with law enforcement agencies to find the perpetrators of this violent crime as soon as possible.

The theme for this Congress is "Telling a Fresh Story", which focuses on SAACI strategic focus areas of Learning, Growth and Collaboration. We are here to tell and hear exciting fresh stories, recommit ourselves to a new collaboration that will bring growth to the tourism sector.​

Today, I am thrilled that we are here to share a moment where we recognise the power and the role that sports, and tourism play in the pursuit of inspiring the industry the nation and the world. Sport seeks to connect people while also playing a very important role in contributing to the country through creating jobs, feeding families and being a positive contributor of change in our communities.​

​It is my honour and privilege to stand in front of you today to join and support the Khomanani and Mier communities in the creation of economic growth and cultural preservation.

​It is my great honour to be with you all today at the launch of this very important addition to tourism reflecting the important history of the Khomani San community in this region.

​Traversing landscapes of space and time, the Kalahari is known for its rich cultural and tourism offerings of the Kalahari Red Dune Route. The route passes through such small communities such as Mier, Ashkam, Noenieput and Andreisvale, still home to the world’s oldest ancient tribe, the ǂKhomani.

​This year as we mark Mandela Day under the theme: “It’s in your hands”, I think of the many men and women across the country who open their hands and serve the most vulnerable every day.

​​On 19 July 2023, the Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille will launch the Twee Rivieren (±Khomani San) Interpretive Centre at the SANParks’ Transfrontier Park in the Northern Cape Province.

Following in-depth engagements with the private sector and the Departments of Transport and Tourism, I welcome the move by the Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga for law enforcement to stop unduly penalising tour operators who have applied for licence renewals and are still awaiting their renewed licences from the Department of Transport.​

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille extends her heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the Irish tourist, former rugby player and coach Greig Oliver who tragically lost his life in a paragliding accident in Cape Town on Monday, 3rd July 2023.​

The first three months in the portfolio have been busy, exciting and rewarding and I am encouraged by the passion and commitment of all stakeholders. I will continue working with all stakeholders to take tourism to the next level and again my ethos is urgency and implementation. ​

​It is my great pleasure to be here amongst our young people, our assets in tourism for this Youth Skills Programme Graduation ceremony.

​The Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, will on Thursday, 15 June 2023, host the Food Quality Assurers Programme Graduation in Hermanus. This ceremony will see 50 graduates being added to the tourism and hospitality talent pool in the Western Cape.

Safety is one of the major issues affecting the tourism sector and as partners, government and the private sector, agreed tourism safety is a priority that we need to address collectively so that we can grow the sector and remove any obstacles standing in the way of that objective.​

The tourism sector is an important one for our economy and safety is one of the issues affecting the growth of the sector. As government we want to form partnerships with the private sector to address this including deploying more safety tourism monitors to key tourist sites and using technology to improve tourism safety.​

​Allow me to express my sincere gratitude to all of you for gracing this important Indaba where the future of the tourism industry is being rebooted to enhance its efficiency to the economy.

​Durban, South Africa - All roads lead to Durban for the 2023 edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI), the continent’s premier tourism trade show to be hosted at the iconic Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre from 8 to 11 May. 

​Allow me to welcome everyone to Durban, a city that pulsates with life, energy and infectious love for Africa and to be precise welcome you all to Africa’s Travel Indaba in 2023.

My priority is clear, let’s get to over 21 million tourist arrivals before 2030, let’s speak with one clear voice, let’s have one clear message on destination marketing, let’s make South Africa safer for tourists and let’s get to truly opening our country for visitors with the e-visas and improving air access. 

I had a fruitful and frank discussion with the interim SA Tourism Board and the Director General of the Department of Tourism outlining key outcomes and areas we need to work on urgently to ensure that the SA Tourism Interim Board, the SA Tourism executive and the Department of Tourism can work together efficiently to grow inclusive tourism for the country. 

I wish the appointed members well in their work and look forward to working with them and the SA Tourism Executive to stabilize the entity and pursue our objective growing inclusive tourism in South Africa.​

​On 6 April 2023, I wrote a letter to the then chairperson of the SA Tourism Board, Dr Thozamile Botha asking for representation on why I should not dissolve the Board in terms of my powers under the Tourism Act. 

The Minister of Tourism, Patricia De Lille, warmly welcomes all participants to the 2023 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon. This marathon remains a bucket list item for most runners and takes place in the beautiful province of the Western Cape. 

I encourage citizens to take advantage and support local tourism and local businesses as you enjoy the Easter holiday period and make new memories in some of the best spaces in the world. I also appeal to all travelers to be safe on the roads and at your destinations. Drive responsibly and take care over the Easter weekend. 

It gives me great pleasure to return to World Travel Market (WTM) Africa in my new role after having supported and attended this exciting event for many years before.

This matter is now concluded and we will continue working together to explore all avenues, create an environment conducive for the private sector to invest and crowd in on government initiatives within the legislative framework to grow tourism, welcome more visitors to our beautiful country and create more jobs for people in this sector.​

​It gives me such great pleasure to be here in Durban today, to launch Africa’s Travel Indaba. I must tell you just how excited I am that this is one of my first major assignments as the newly appointed Minister of Tourism.

As a country, when we enter into such massive partnerships, it is vital that we are able to be fully accountable, that we are transparent and can answer South Africans clearly and honestly. Based on the Board Chairperson’s interim response received this morning 24 March 2023, my advice to the SA Tourism Board is that the proposal may as well be stopped completely.​

Members of the media are invited to attend a press briefing my Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, MP where the Minister will brief the media on the latest update regarding the Tottenham Hotspur FC and SA Tourism sponsorship proposal.​

“It gives me great pleasure to congratulate the Cape Town International Airport and the King Shaka Airport on their achievements in claiming awards at the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2023 held in Amsterdam yesterday, 15 March 2023,” Minister de Lille said.​

The Minister of Tourism, Patricia De Lille, notes the tourism statistics released by Statistics South Africa on 15 March 2023 and applauds the sector for its continued commitment to recovery. The Tourism Satellite Account for 2020 statistics reflects the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.​

Tourism is a major sector for our country and we have much more to offer the world. We can do a lot more to reach our full potential and create many more jobs for our people.​

The Department of Tourism would like to place on record that neither the Deputy Minister, Mr Fish Mahlalela, nor the Department, are participants at the Ekurhuleni Tourism and Business Expo 2023, contrary to the advertisement on social media, which was issued without the knowledge and/or consent of the Department. ​

Themed ‘Leave no one behind’ this post-SoNA engagement will bring together sector stakeholders and the community to engage on the significance of active citizen participation in government-led programmes, and initiatives that advance rural and community-centric tourism in the sector.

​Heavy rains in parts of Mpumalanga have lead to the closure of four camps in the Kruger National Park (KNP). The Lower Sabie, Crocodile Bridge, Biyamiti and Talamati camps are not accessible due to flooding.​

State of the Nation Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Cape Town City Hall, 9 February 2023​

​The Minister would like to clarify that she attended the Joint Meeting of all Cabinet Committees led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, which was a physical meeting which started at 09h00. The Portfolio committee meeting also started at 09h00​.

​Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has noted a report by the Daily Maverick on Wednesday 1 February 2023 headlined: "From Lindiwe Sisulu, With Love: Inside SA Tourism’s R1bn proposal to sponsor Tottenham Hotspur". 

​Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu condemns the alleged shooting at tourists and elephants on the Jozini Dam, which took place Wednesday.​

​Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has encouraged South Africans to take advantage of the diverse tourism products, assets and offerings including the rich history of different spaces to foster national unity, cohesion and to reject the stereotypes and practices that sought to deny to anyone enjoyment of this country.

Minister of Tourism Lindiwe Sisulu will engage tourism stakeholders and meet families of the boys who were allegedly racially abused on Christmas day in Masselspoort Resort.

​​​Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has noted with utter disgust reports of a racist attack by a group of white men on black children. A video circulating on social media shows a group of white men attacking children at the Masselspoort Resort outside Bloemfontein in the Free State on Christmas Day. ​

​​​Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has been made aware of delays in flights at OR Tambo International Airport due to fuel challenges. 

In an effort to boost tourism especially to the previously disadvantaged, Minister Lindiwe Sisulu met with JSE CEO, Dr Leila Fourie, to open discussions on how the JSE could work collaboratively with the Department of Tourism towards investment in the expansion of the tourism sector and in particular participation of and economic inclusion of women and youth. ​

​It is indeed my pleasure to welcome you all and also express my gratitude for taking your precious time to participate in this special event that is a milestone since in 2020 when we started the journey in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic.​

​It is a distinct honour and privilege to be here today. We are gathered here to represent our collective efforts and the strong spirit with which we went into this year, following a devastating two years of the COVID-19 pandemic.

​​South Africa is entering the peak summer season on a high note, as the tourism numbers continue to show unparalleled growth in both domestic numbers and international arrivals.
“We are upbeat as all indications are that our tourism sector is on a fast highway to recovery,” said Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu.

This is the first festive season we get to enjoy without any COVID-19 restrictions! South Africa is gearing up for a bumper festive season​. Domestic and international holidaymakers are looking forward to once again exploring and enjoying beautiful Mzansi.

​On the basis of this background, the Department of Tourism are hosting provincial roadshows which are aimed at engaging key tourism stakeholders and visiting key tourism projects in VTSD areas in each province. The sessions will provide stakeholders with a platform to raise key issues impacting the recovery of the sector in their respective provinces. The Department of Tourism will also use the opportunity to update on the recovery of the sector as well as provide feedback on the progress made thus far. ​

​Thank you for inviting me to address the Southern African region’s aviation industry at such a critical juncture for our deeply interconnected and interdependent sectors. This event could not have come at a better time as we prepare to welcome and put into motion travellers and tourists during the festive season after the devastation of COVID​

​Minister of Tourism Lindiwe Sisulu will tomorrow (Friday) as part of Airlines Association of Southern Africa annual assembly at the Arabella Resort near Kleinmond.​

The closing of the Numbi Gate outside the Kruger National Park was raised by the Committee after a vehicle carrying German tourists came under attack resulting in the horrific murder of one person outside the Numbi Gate last week.

​“I would like to convey my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the tourist who was killed in this incident. I also call on law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in bringing to book the perpetrators of this heinous crime.”

​It gives me great pleasure to address you on the occasion of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) inaugural Tourism Leadership Conference. 

​Minister of Tourism, Lindiwe Sisulu, told the media today that “the South African tourism sector is poised for a tremendous bounce back and positive growth after the first half of the year (2022) show a staggering 147% in arrivals reaching an impressive 2,285,746.”​

​I want to recognise the enormous support from the tourism sector itself and to pay tribute to the various service providers in the tourism value chain, from our trade partners, car guards, taxi drivers, petrol attendants, tourism guides, restaurateurs and hoteliers and all our diligent operators. The Tourism Sector can only thrive with your unequivocal support at work.​

​Tourism is largely seen as an export industry owing to its ability to generate foreign exchange earnings. Furthermore, income from tourism indirectly increases the demand factors of production and consequently its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).​

Minister of Tourism, Lindiwe Sisulu, has congratulated MEC Siboniso Duma on his appointment as MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environment. The tourism sector in KwaZulu Natal has suffered serious challenges over the past two years, and coupled with his experience in the legislature, MEC Duma brings new energy to the portfolio. ​​

​I committed that, “we will implement the Women in Tourism (WiT) Programme as a platform to drive initiatives that support the development and empowerment of women in the tourism sector. This platform recognises the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs who are often found at the bottom end of the tourism economic value chain”. 

​Banyana Banyana's success, which has enhanced our nation’s proud reputation as a world-class sporting destination will also help drive the sports tourism market significantly, a sector that is slowly recovering after it was hit hard by the COVID-19 outbreak, " said Minister Sisulu.​

​Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu is pleased with the data released today, 18 July 2022, by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) on Tourist Accommodation.

​“While more has to be done, our efforts to remove constraints to travel and tourism, and regain the confidence to travel are bearing fruit,” Minister Sisulu said.

​Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has heard the news of the tragic death of over 22 young people in East London with grief and deep concern. Her heart goes out especially to the mothers, fathers and loved ones who’ve lost the light and hopes represented in these young lives.

​ 

​Minister Sisulu also expressed her delight as sporting codes, music festivals and other major conferences are now permitted at full scale, meaning more tourists in the country.​

​The deliberations with local government as the sphere of government responsible for the development of local tourism will focus mainly on the growth of tourism enterprises in a manner that facilitates inclusive participation, job creation and contributes to the competitiveness of tourism destinations.​

​“Air travel is a key pillar for South Africa’s tourism recovery and I am confident that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) SA Tourism recently signed with Emirates Airlines to grow the tourism market in South Africa will bear fruits soon,” said Sisulu. “Similar effort is underway with Qatar Airways and other airlines will hopefully serve to fill this gap”.​

​​Minister of Tourism, Lindiwe Sisulu will attend the 116th session of the Executive Council of the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) to be held on 7-8 June 2022 in Jeddah, Suadi Arabia.

​Minister Sisulu has expressed excitement at the latest data from statistics South Africa relating to tourist accommodation figures for march 2022. Total income from accommodation increased to R1,7 billion, an 88% increase compared to march 2021. For the entire first quarter of 2022, income from tourism accommodation rose 83%.​

​On Tuesday, Comair announced the suspension all its kulula.com flights and the British Airways flights it operates under a licence agreement. The flights are suspended pending Comair successfully securing additional funding.  ​

​“The future for our African continent is bright. It is now time for our country, South Africa, to reclaim our place as an attractive tourism and business events destination,” these are the sentiments of the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela at his post-budget vote industry engagement. ​

​Emirates and the South African Tourism have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly promote tourism and boost visitor arrivals and inbound traffic to South Africa from key markets across the Emirates network.​

​Minister Lindiwe Sisulu will embark on a two day visit to assess Tourism attractions affected by recent floods in KwaZulu-Natal. The Minister’s visit comes after a delegation led by the national department director general to assess the extent of damage to tourist attractions.​

​The extreme weather conditions resulting in heavy flooding have left a trail of destruction leaving many without homes and hundreds without jobs as businesses have been affected, including a number of tourism and hospitality establishments.​

​The Minister’s visit takes place as the Department prepares to participate in the second District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo on 09 April in the Free State Province. This public participation platform will offer the community an opportunity to converse with government officials - with a view of addressing the hurdles that are impeding progress and economic growth in various sectors.  ​

​​I look across the room today and am so awe-inspired by what I see for I see the future of South Africa before me today! I welcome you all to this event today.

“As we are all looking forward to a brighter year for the South African tourism sector recovery, these revised regulations are most welcome. These revisions will immediately address some challenges that travellers and the tourism industry have expressed and will make South Africa more accessible and attractive. Doing away with the requirement of a PCR test for all arrivals reduces the added cost and administrative burden to travelling,” Minister Sisulu said.

​“I would like the issues between Comair and SACAA to be resolved soon, as the tourism industry cannot afford any further discouragements,” said Sisulu.

​To ensure that South Africa remains a destination of choice, we need to make sure that tourism safety is a priority. To this end, the Department of Tourism has been working with various stakeholders to compile a safety plan of which the Tourism Monitors Programme forms part of.

​The session will be held at the first female black owned Spade Boutique Hotel & Spa and a first of its kind in the history of South African townships in Khayelitsha, Cape Town.​

​​Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has welcomed the decision by EU countries to remove South Africa from red lists following the discovery of the Omicron COVID-19 variant.​

​Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu today held a stakeholder engagement summit with Limpopo tourism sector. The event, co-hosted by Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism and Limpopo Tourism Agency (LTA) was held at Protea Hotel in Polokwane.

​It is with a heavy heart that I learned of the passing of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu. He changed the course of history in our country and will be remembered for his invaluable role in our struggle against apartheid.

Minister of Tourism Lindiwe Sisulu has assured the tourism industry that they have the government’s full backing. This follows her successful trip to the UAE World EXPO 2020 held in Dubai where she showcased South Africa to the rest of the world.   

​​Minister Lindiwe Sisulu says South Africa should continue to prioritise the Middle East because it holds two strategic Air hubs in Dubai and Doha.

​Minister Lindiwe Sisulu of Tourism concluded her four -day working visit to the United Arab Emirates World 2020 Expo destination, Dubai with an engagement with members of the trade that sells South Arica to the world as well as a visit to other country pavilions at the Dubai World Expo.

​As a District Development Model (DDM) Champion for ZF Mgcawu, Deputy Minister Mahlalela will also host engagements with community and religious leaders, youth and women organisations, tourism stakeholders, and NGOs to urge them to choose vaccination as their first line of defence against COVID -19​

​Minister of Tourism Lindiwe Sisulu will on Saturday 20 November 2021 address the 44th Professional Hunter’s (PHASA) AGM.

​As a District Development Model (DDM) Champion for ZF Mgcawu, Deputy Minister Mahlalela will also host engagements with community and religious leaders, youth and women organisations, tourism stakeholders, and NGOs to urge them to choose vaccination as their first line of defence against COVID -19. 

​Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu will today receive a larger than artistic recreation of the lives and times of the late South African struggle icon Mama Albertina Sisulu from Mpho Ngwenya a Soweto based artist.

​The Minister of Tourism Lindiwe Sisulu has extended her condolences to the families of the two people who lost their lives following a fire which broke out on the Shayamanzi luxury houseboat in Jozini, Kwa-Zulu-Natal.​

​Although the tourism sector continues to be heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Minister Sisulu is confident that the Department will provide the necessary support that will drive recovery and protect jobs in the sector.

​Fellow South Africans, This evening, I am announcing certain changes to the National Executive. This comes at a time when the country is facing several challenges and we are called upon to undertake several tasks at once.

​Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi joins the South African public in conveying condolences to the family and close associates of award-winning chef and cookbook author, Mr. Lesego Semenya.

​The Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi, extends condolences to the family and associates of a great industry pioneer of commercial balloon flying in South Africa, Bill Harrop.

​The Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi, joins the tourism sector in conveying condolences to the family and associates of one of our great legends and patriot, Mr. Joe Motsogi - fondly known as “Bra Joe”.

​It has been just more than a year since COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic and the virus continues to disrupt our lives and may continue to do so for some time to come. The pandemic has so far left countries facing tremendous economic pain and inequality, which can only be overcome through collective action.

​As the tourism department, we are always excited to be part of activities that have a positive impact on our country’s brand and more importantly the potential to attract more tourists to our shores. South Africa is the world's eighth-largest producer of wine and the wine estates are part of our most visited attractions in our country.

​Transformation is not only a fundamental obligation enshrined in our Constitution.  It is also imperative if our tourism is to benefit the creativity, talent, energy and skills of all South Africans. To bring about this change, we need a radical programme of action that is restorative, that builds and that is transformative.

​The devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in the tourism sector and the wider economy, has brought into sharp focus the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality. For us to confront these challenges we need to respond to the call made by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his 2021 State of the Nation Address when he said: “People of South Africa, it is your country that calls on you to rise.”

​As industry leaders, we rely on your impact, influence and inspiration to give expression to this robust recovery plan. Although fragile, this sector is resilient and will rebound. We look forward to our joint collaboration as we learn to live alongside the pandemic and navigate the way forward to resuscitate the sector.

​Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane will host a cook-off with media personality Somizi Mhlongo to showcase some of the skills, and innovative entrepreneurial ventures that are critical in growing and sustaining the hospitality industry.

​In an effort to stimulate discourse on tourism, the Deputy Minister Mahlalela will meet with industry stakeholders and trade to highlight the importance of Public-Private partnerships in the implementation of departmental initiatives to revive the sector - that will be announced during the Tourism Budget Vote.

​South Africa’s interventions will focus on four areas, namely G20 Rome Guidelines for the future of tourism, South Africa’s recovery from COVID-19 pandemic, South Africa’s approach to cultural tourism and reference to the Ministers’ Communique

​Let me start by congratulating the management of The Telegram newspaper for this important milestone. It is a great pleasure for me to be part of this important launch of an alternative media platform that will add a progressive voice to the public discourse.

​The Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane notes the outcome of the court which restrains the processing and making payments from the Tourism Equity Fund until the matter is finalised.

​This Plan represents the tourism industry’s collective response to the devastation brought by the COVID-19 pandemic on the sector. It is a product of extensive industry consultation and reflects the industry’s commitment to deep and intensive collaboration around a set of clearly defined and specific areas of cooperation.

​Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane will host a breakfast event on the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan (TSRP). The Tourism Sector Recovery Plan is a response by the sector, and its constituent partners, to the multiple challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

​Let me take this opportunity to congratulate Coega Development Corporation (CDC) for the investment they have made in this beautiful hotel that we are launching today. The development of this hotel in close proximity to the Coega SEZ & Port of Ngqura, which is 25 kms away from similar services in Gqeberha, was a very strategic move by COEGA, as it will attract other services to complement the work done both within the SEZ & the Port.

​Minister Kubayi-Ngubane will visit the Vilakazi Precinct to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism business, and adherence to the prescribed health protocols. Her visit will also include stopovers at women-owned establishments to handover PPE to encourage compliance to regulations as we work to revive tourism.

​The Women in Tourism (WiT) Programme is an initiative that advances and supports the development and empowerment of women in the tourism sector  The Programme integrates women from diverse backgrounds to converge on a set of common goals and interests that ensure their success in the tourism sector.

​I was excited to learn that amongst other things, the SUV challenge aims to promote Tourism in Eastern Cape. This objective is in line with the tourism recovery plan that we have developed together with the private sector. This is to assist the sector to recover from the devastation of the pandemic.

​Tourism is one of the pillars of the ERRP. The Department of Tourism together with the private sector has worked on a tourism recovery plan which elaborates on what is outlined in the ERRP.

​The Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, held a meeting with Solidarity and AfriForum on 15 February 2021, following a letter from their attorneys in which they had threatened legal action against the roll-out of the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF). The objective of the meeting was to engage the two organisations in an attempt to listen and establish the basis of their opposition to the fund.

​Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, will visit schools in the Mpumalanga Province to welcome and support learners as they officially begin the first term of the 2021 school year.

​This evening, we stand here not to make promises but to report on progress in the implementation of the recovery plan and the priority actions we must take to restore growth and create jobs.

​Three days after President Cyril Ramaphosa successfully launched the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF), the Minister of Tourism has received a letter from attorneys representing Solidarity and Afriforum in which both organisations are tacitly threatening legal action against the criteria that will be used to award funding to applicants

​The norms and standards are aimed at effecting common minimum health measures that will provide quality and safety assurance to potential visitors and travellers. It will ensure uniformity across local tourism products and services by aligning them to global principles and guidelines.

​Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane congratulates the newly appointed CEO of Thebe Tourism Group (TTG), Mr Jerry Mabena and wishes him and the TTG management team success in their new venture.

​Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane joins the South African public in conveying condolences to the family and close associates of Icon and pioneer chef and food writer Ms Dorah Sitole.

​The seven-member Advisory Panel, comprising of experts with diverse knowledge in the sector and the economy, will review all our existing policies, provide guidance to the Minister over a twelve-months period, with a view to develop a new comprehensive and overarching tourism policy framework to guide the sector to new heights.

​As we gradually open up our borders for international travel in accordance with the global pandemic risk levels, we will complement this with an aggressive international marketing strategy that will be implemented in partnership with the private sector. More business and jobs will be recovered when international travel goes to full recovery.

​Dr Mahlati made an immense contribution to the construction of a non-sexist and non-racial South Africa. She served in various institutions, public and private, including the National Planning Commission, demonstrating her willingness to use her skills and influence for the benefit of all South Africans, and humanity as whole.

​The engagement will seek to rally local Government structures and SMMEs to prioritise tourism in their master plans to drive the development of sustainable tourism economies in rural communities.

​Your presence tonight is a clear indication of the value you place on the future of this country. For the contribution that you will be making tonight to support students studying Travel and Tourism and other related courses, you will be making a commitment to creating an advanced cadreship of young people in whose hands the future belongs.

​South Africa, just like other parts of the world, has now embarked on the road to recovery. After extensive consultation, we put together a tourism recovery plan that outlines a series of steps and a set of activities we need to undertake for us restart the tourism economy.

​World Tourism Day is a United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) initiative observed annually on 27 September to highlight the sector’s contribution to the socio–economic development of nations, and the advancement of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

​We would like to convey our sincere thanks to the many South Africans who have heeded the call get out there and travel their country helping to save businesses and jobs.

​At this point in time, all of us are aware that there are two pandemics that we are grappling with. One is COVID-19, for which a vaccine has not yet been found, and the other, the Gender Based Violence and Femicide, threatening to destroy our humanness.

​We are gathered here today because of the decision by cabinet on the 27 May 2020 to allocate District Champions to 52 District Municipalities for the purpose to assist the President and the Deputy President to manage the implementation of the District Development Model (DDM) to enhance the capacity of the state where it matters most.

​Deputy Minister of Tourism Mr. Fish Mahlalela, and the executives of the Z. F. MGCAWU district in the Northern Cape will host a Special Broadcast (Imbizo) on Radio Riverside to engage with the stakeholders and the community on Gender Based Violence, Femicide, and ways to advance tourism through government’s coordinated District Development Service Delivery Model.   

​During Tourism Month 2020, as we reopen our sector we will showcase the many rural tourism offerings which include natural wonders, lifestyles, events, traditions, culture, cuisine, and crafts, to encourage and urge all communities in the Northern Cape and throughout the Country to take a Short Left.

​As you are aware the past four months of lockdown have been very difficult for the tourism sector and we are grateful that the media has been instrumental in ensuring we kept the sector informed of the efforts we were making towards reopening the sector in the midst of a pandemic, thus enkindling a sense of hope in the sector.

​The Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, has noted with concern the non-compliance by some restaurants since the move to Alert Level 2 of the COVID-19 risk-adjusted strategy.

​This platform is not for us to lament but, to come up with ways in which we can resuscitate our businesses during the pandemic. It seems we have to learn to live with the pandemic as there is no indication of whether it is going anytime soon.

​We are highly encouraged by the interest we are seeing from both domestic and international investors, looking for opportunities in the tourism sector. This gives hope that the supply side of the tourism sector will not only recover, but has the potential to surpass where we were as a sector prior to the pandemic.

​Tourism Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, will host a virtual media briefing to outline tourism related activities under Alert Level 2 of the risk adjusted strategy and directions for the sector

​As the Department of Tourism we are firmly committed to work with all multiple stakeholders to be part of this process and ensure that it succeeds in its endeavours to contribute to creating an environment where women and children are free, safe and protected.

​The main objective of the recovery plan is to resume tourism operations as early as it is safe to do so, and as the Department of Tourism, we are committed to the recovery of the sector.

​Let me take this opportunity to welcome all of you to this Tourism Sector Recovery Plan Webinar this morning. Let me also pay a special tribute to all the women who have joined us for this webinar, and to you all, happy Women’s Month.

​The Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane has today made public a list of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises who benefited through the much-needed Tourism Relief Funding.

​Since the country entered level 3 of the Risk-Adjusted Strategy, the tourism sector also began its march towards full operation. The reality of the COVID-19 pandemic and the fluctuating risk of the virus spread has dictated that we pace ourselves in our efforts to reopen the sector

​Tourism Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, will host a virtual media briefing on Tourism related activities under Risk Adjusted level 3, update on Tourism Relief Fund and Relief fund for Tourist Guides

​It has come to the attention of the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Hon Fish Mahlalela, MP, that there is a fake and malicious message circulating on social media about a convicted young man who is purported to be the Deputy Minister's son

​The Department is in a process of conducting a comprehensive study on the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism sub-sectors, to better understand the impact and inform key interventions and development of responsive recovery strategies.

​​Working together with various stakeholders we have put together the tourism Recovery plan and we are in the final stages of consultation and we will within the month August submit the plan for Cabinet for Approval.

​In line with President’s announcement last week, we are continuing with the effort to reactivate the Tourism sector so that we can save businesses and Jobs in the sector. Working together with the sector, we have developed protocols and guidelines to ensure that as we reopen more tourism activities we protect the lives of employers, employees, tourists and South Africans at large.

​The Minister will also utilise the briefing to provide an update on the intervention to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on the tourism sector.   

​The Department of Tourism will roll out a Relief Fund to assist distressed Tourist Guides who have been impacted by the countrywide Disaster Management Measures to mitigate the Covid-19 pandemic.

​Following the announcement by the President on Sunday, 24 May 2020, that the country will be moving to level 3 lockdown from 01 June 2020, the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) worked on level 3 regulations that have already been issued on Thursday by the minister of cooperative governance and traditional affairs.

The Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane convened an emergency virtual meeting with all Members of Executive Council responsible for Tourism across all provinces on Friday, 15 May 2020.

Tourism Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane today welcomed the Constitutional Court‘s dismissal of the joint Afriforum and Solidarity’s application to appeal and set aside the use of broad-based black economic empowerment as consideration for financial relief to small businesses in the sector affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19).

​Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane is pleased to announce the reappointment of Mr Nkhumeleni Victor Tharage, who will continue to serve in his role as Director General of the Department of Tourism. Mr Tharage’s new five-year contract will resume with effect from 1 September 2020. ​

Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane and the Black Business Council (BBC) leadership held a virtual meeting on Thursday, 7 May 2020, to discuss amongst others the implementation of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) and the government's response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

​The Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Nguabane, welcomes the North Gauteng High Court decision to dismiss the review application by AfriForum and Solidarity on the use of broad-based black economic empowerments as part of the criteria for the R200 million emergency funding for small businesses in the sector affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.​​

The President announced a National Lockdown on 23 March, a difficult decision - in whose absence the health, social and economic consequences would have been far worse today.​

The Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, dismisses with contempt claims by Afriforum to the effect that she has been served with court papers for the review of the Tourism Relief Fund.​​

​The Department of Tourism encourages eligible businesses to apply for the COVID-19 Tourism Relief Fund during the application period from 07 April to 30 May 2020.​

​The President announced that we are imposing a travel ban on foreign nationals from high-risk countries such as Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom and China as from 18 March 2020.

​​On 9 March 2020, the Inter-Ministerial Committee dealing with all matters pertaining to COVID-19 met in Pretoria to address a number of emerging issues and developments in South Africa and globally.

​It is important, ladies and gentlemen, that we work together through these challenging times. There are many aspects about this situation that as government we are still going discuss and take decisions and we are inviting you as industry players to make inputs so that as we discuss we make more informed decisions.

​The Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, will meet with the tourism industry on Monday, 09 March 2020, in light of the latest development around COVID-19. 

​The Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane congratulates South Africa’s Culinary Olympics Team, which showed off its full hand through talent and taste perfections in the biggest international culinary arts competition in Stuttgart, Germany this week.

​It is in this context that we say Tourism is for everybody’s business. As a labour-intensive sector, tourism has the potential not only to create jobs, but also to stimulate entrepreneurship, gender equality and the upskilling of South Africa’s youth. 

​Mining and tourism have been recognised for their positive roles in alleviating poverty by providing jobs and income to local communities. However, mining is often seen as a major threat to tourism especially where biodiversity is concerned. It is for this reason that the tourism and mining sectors ought to work together to developing trust, partnerships and a joint vision for the greater benefit of communities.

​The Youth For Survival Centre in Pretoria was today a hive of excitement and activity as the Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane paid a visit to donate school uniform, clothes, shoes and toys to children at the shelter.

​The Minister’s visit to the shelter reinforces government’s firm stand against all forms of violence meted against the most vulnerable in our society and is also in line with the President’s call for a year-round education, awareness and prevention campaign. 

The South African Minister of Tourism, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, will visit Mumbai, India from 14 to 16 January 2020 as part of a trade roadshow to grow Indian tourist arrivals and consolidate market share of the Asia-Pacific region to South Africa.

Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane will visit the Northern Cape Province to interact with stakeholders and the community on growing tourism. 

​The Minister of Tourism, Mamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, congratulates the national airline, South African Airways (SAA) for being named as one of the top-performing airlines globally for on-time performance (OTP) by travel data and analytics company, Cirium. ​

​The role of Traditional Leadership is critically important in supporting tourism development on Traditional Land, particularly in rural areas of South Africa.  Without the support or buy-in from Traditional Leaders in these areas, tourism development will never succeed. We therefore seek to work closely with our traditional leaders in the management and protection of our tourism products 

​We have crafted a workable Tourism Safety Plan, integrating a (1) Proactive preventative measures to potential incidents (2) Responsive measures that to ensure quick and effective operational response, and importantly (3) An aftercare programme that focuses on measures to facilitate and provide victim support after an incident has occurred.

​Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, along with the Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele will host a media briefing to announce a tourism safety initiative on 12 December 2019.

​The Ministers will hand over the Green Waste Drop-off Facility to the uMngeni Local Municipality, do Community clean-up activities around the Howick Falls, Public Awareness campaign and host a Ministerial Imbizo. 

Cape Town is one of the clear illustrations of what makes South Africa a destination of choice for tourists across the globe. The diversity of tourist attractions and the diverse cultures of the multiple population groups that make up the inhabitants of the city makes Cape Town a unique tourist destination.

​Today the tourism industry bids farewell to one of own. It is with profound sadness that the Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, learned of the passing of one of the industry game changer, stalwart and beloved friend of tourism, Hans Rudolf Enderle founder of City Lodge Hotel Group.

​The Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane has welcomed the scrapping of unabridged birth certificates, a positive development ahead of the festive season as this could spurn much needed growth in the Tourism sector. 

​Government urges South Africans to come out in their numbers and give the national rugby team, the Springboks, a hero’s welcome as they are expected to arrive at O R Tambo International Airport tomorrow at 17:00pm. This is indeed a momentous occasion as the champions bring home the Webb Ellis Cup.

​​Government congratulates the national rugby team, the mighty Springboks, for winning the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan. Equally, government extends its congratulations to the technical support team that worked with the Boks that led to the magnificent win. 

Tourism has a share of a contribution to total trade between our two countries, which currently stood at about 38% of inbound tourist’s arrivals, with the launch of Boeing 787 to South Africa, we look forward to breaking any existing barriers and tremendously increase the number of arrivals from UAE visiting our country.

​South Africa is intensifying its efforts to grow arrivals from the Asia Pacific region with Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane scheduled to visit China and Japan, two of South Africa’s key source markets in the region, next week.

​You are celebrating your heritage today with an aim to motivate younger generation under the theme: ”Explore, Learn, Protect and Respect the diverse culture and heritage of our country”

​The Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, received with concern the Annual Performance Report of South African Tourism (SAT) and the audit outcome of the department. While the department received a qualified audit, it has managed to achieve above 80% performance. The Minister wishes to thank the Director General Mr. Victor Tharage and the entire departmental staff.  

​It is my privilege today, on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, to extend congratulations to the Government and the people of the Republic of Korea, on the occasion of the celebration of your National Day.

​Speaking in Cape Town last night to the more than 100 international journalists who arrived in the country over the weekend to cover the royal visit, Tourism Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi -Ngubane, encouraged the media and other British dignitaries to maximise the opportunity to experience an incredibly diverse product offering of our beautiful country, Mzansi.

​​​​​It is with great sadness that the Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, learns of the passing of one of the industry’s budding entrepreneur, Ms. Nobantu Mbude. 

This important global meeting of senior tourism and high-level representatives of the private sector, taking place from 9 to 13 September,  brings together delegations from more than 150 countries. Also in attendance are representatives from over 500 UNWTO affiliate members in the public and private sectors, NGOs and academia. 

​We are confident that the Thabo Mbeki Presidential Library, which will host the rich legacy of Former President Thabo Mbeki and other African leaders, will become an important cultural monument that will not only serve to bring tourists to our shores but will also serve as a reminder of who we are as Africans, where we come from, what we have achieved and our obligations, as a young generation, towards creating a united and prosperous Africa which is at peace with itself.

This is part of a ministerial engagement with local and international influencers and the Thabo Mbeki Foundation on the country’s brand in the continent and abroad. 

​Our country is not only blessed with magnificent natural tourist attractions, it is also endowed with an incredible diversity of attractions. In this connection, the department of tourism strives to improve the country’s competitiveness and attractiveness in offering an authentic tourist experience, and to increase demand. We recognise that diversified product offering enables the country to respond to varying market needs.

​South Africa congratulates the government and political parties in the Central African Republic for the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation that was signed in Bangui on 6 February 2019.

​The Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, today launched the National Tourism Safety Awareness Campaign at Table Mountain in Cape Town. This follows isolated incidents of violence directed at tourists. International tourism trends indicate that personal safety and security issues are of high importance in potential tourist’s choice of a destination.

​More than any other economic activity, the success or failure of a tourism destination depends on being able to provide a safe and secure environment for visitors. 

The Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane would like to reassure tourist that it is safe to travel to South Africa and that their safety remains top priority for the South African government.

​Minister Kubayi-Ngubane would like to categorically state that she has not made any new appointments in her office since the start of the sixth administration, as alleged in a fake statement circulating on various social media platforms bearing the Black Management Forum letterhead

​The Deputy Minister of Tourism Fish Mahlalela had his maiden community engagement in Busoni, Mpumalanga, on Saturday, 20 July where he sought to create an awareness on programmes that the Department has to offer in contributing and creating employment through faster economic growth and eliminate poverty, as commitment in the National Development Plan 2030. 

​Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane will attend and make remarks at the launch of a new 24-hour streaming service, TH24.com, owned by entrepreneur and radio personality Thabo “Tbo Touch" Molefe this evening, 25 July 2019.

​The Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the Central Karoo District Municipality, and the Overberg District Municipality will be hosting a tourism information sharing sessions in Western Cape for Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMME's)

The Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane and the Deputy Minister Fish Mahlalela will deliver the Tourism Budget Vote highlighting the vision and strategic focal points that will be implemented by the Department in the current financial year (2019/20), and the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).  

​It is indeed a privilege and an honour to welcome and address you on the occasion of the 3rd edition of Africa Hotel Show, taking place from today until Wednesday. This important event incorporates three (3) leading exhibitions across Retail, Hospitality, Food and Beverage, and Wholesale industries of the Tourism sector.

​Travel and Tourism have a great potential to drive economic growth, create jobs and promote social development. I sincerely believe that tourism in South Africa can make a huge contribution to creating an inclusive economy.

In keeping with the values and foundations of an open, accountable government in a participatory democracy, the Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom, published the Tourism Amendment Draft Bill for public comment today for 60 days to provide tourism stakeholders and citizens with sufficient time to engage with and to comment on the Draft Bill.

#HumanRights – The quaint town of Cradock in the Eastern Cape Province can proudly count itself amongst the hidden gems that boast a prestigious tourism offering that is intrinsically linked to South Africa’s liberation - heritage following the launch of the Cradock 4 Garden of Remembrance memorial.

​In truth, tourism and the aviation industry are joined at the hip. Without tourists, your flights are empty. Without your flights, we do not get tourists. Globally, airplanes carry four billion passengers annually and close to 60 percent of international tourists travel by air- a share that is growing steadily. It was the introduction of the wide-bodied jets in the early 1960s that really opened up international leisure travel. 

The beginning of 2019 - the 25th anniversary of the achievement of our democracy -  is an opportune time to reflect on the sector’s achievements and challenges and for us to shape what lies ahead.

As we move TOWARDS 20years of Democracy from 3million in 1994 to 13.5 million arrivals to date! The Minister has highlighted that we are presenting our Budget Vote with a backdrop of a favourable tourism growth of 10.2% in 2012.  Such development are a clear indication that this Administration made the right decision by identifying tourism as one of the top six priority areas in the New Growth Path, strictly focussing on the promotion of economic development and job creation in South Africa.

It is truly a privilege to be here with you today, especially in these absolutely magnificent surrounds.The past few weeks, since my appointment to this exciting portfolio, have been a sheer whirlwind of activity.  One thing has become quite obvious to me, is that South Africa’s tourism sector is a vibrant one, thanks in no small part to people like you, in this room, who have shown your unequivocal commitment to making this industry grow.

Who would not be touched by Alan Paton’s famous quote from Cry the Beloved Country: “There is a lovely road that runs from Ixopo into the hills. These hills are grass-covered and rolling, and they are lovely beyond any singing of it. The road climbs seven miles into them, to Carisbrooke; and from there, if there is no mist, you look down on one of the fairest valleys of Africa.”

​As 2015 draws to a close, we as the Tourism family would like to extend our warmest wishes to the nation, the continent and our international visitors and to say thank you for making tourism the successful sector that it is.

The President has also extended a warm welcome to international visitors who  come to South Africa during the festive season to enjoy the South African summer, beautiful scenery and top class facilities.

​Collaboration in the field of tourism was the main agenda item when the Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom, recently visited Saudi Arabia for bilateral discussions with his counterpart, Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, President of Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH).

​The Minister of Tourism, Mr Derek Hanekom, will be visiting the Shark Cage Diving and Canopy Tour tourist sites

​The Mthatha Visitor Information Centre Project was funded in 2010 by the Department of Tourism for a budget of R13, 059 000.00 under its Social Responsibility Implementation Programme. The project created 28,786 job opportunities.

​Africa is a continent with amazing tourism offerings and huge growth potential. Our continent’s vibrant cities, rich cultural diversity and splendid natural beauty provide the backdrop for what I believe will be a decade of significant growth in travel and tourism.

Empowering Young Women to Lead Change is designed to support the development of young women’s skills and to enable them to provide leadership on the issues that concern them. It is important to ensure that young women are in leadership positions and they are given latitude to have meaningful participation in decision-making.

​Developing a strong and growing SMME community is a priority of the National Development Plan’s (NDP) vision. SMMEs are expected to be central to South Africa’s job creation efforts and economic development, in line with national priorities and international trends.

​The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms Tokozile Xasa, will proudly officiate the exciting launch of Greater Edendale Tourism Emerging Businesses as well as the Homestay Programme.

​The Department of Tourism, in partnership with The City of Tshwane, vowed to be at the forefront of women empowerment in the tourism sector during the Women in Tourism (WIT) Conference held at Premier Hotel in Pretoria on18 November, under the theme “Tourism Business Trends and where are the opportunities for Women?

​I am deeply grateful to have this opportunity to offer some views on Tourism in the company of so distinguished a gathering. We are also thankful to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran for the kind hospitality accorded to myself and the members of the South African delegation.

​As you know, over the past 20 years, tourism has experienced continued and steady growth in South Africa and has undergone such a ‎diversification in our country to become one of the fastest growing economic sectors. ‎Modern tourism’s success depends on, and is closely linked to skills development. It has subsequently been identified as one of the economic pillars.

​It is a tremendous honour for me to be here today. What I see in front of me is awe-inspiring. You are on the cusp of blooming – just like buds.  You are ready to be of service to the hospitality industry and to blossom. You are the future of this country. And I am so proud of you

​The Department of Tourism in collaboration with the City of Tshwane, will host the “Women in Tourism” conference event under the theme “Tourism Business trends and where the opportunities are for women.”

​"Our award-winning places, products and programs demonstrate the leadership role South Africa is playing in developing and implementing responsible tourism,"

​Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms Tokozile Xasa, will officiate over the ceremony where more than a hundred and fifty (150) students will receive their CATHSSETA accredited National Certificate in Accommodation Services NQF Level 2, and National Certificate in Food and Beverages NQF level 4.

​The recommendations will be implemented in a phased approach, and will make it easier for tourists to travel to South Africa without compromising national security or the safety of children.

​The flight will provide Chinese tourists with a wider choice of options to travel to South Africa. It will improve connectivity to the region, and the entire African continent, through code sharing with South African Airways.

​South Africa today joined global tourism leaders in adopting a declaration to create more jobs and strengthen skills development in the tourism sector.

​Young travellers make up about 20 percent of the one billion tourists that are now traversing the globe. That’s a massive 200 million people, and it is growing every year. By 2020, about 320 million people under the age of 35 will be enjoying the benefits of travel.

​I am really delighted to be part of this very important Summit, especially because it is taking place in Africa for the first time. On behalf of the government and the people of South Africa, I would like to warmly welcome global aviation and airport leaders, and all delegates, to Africa, our beautiful continent; to South Africa, our magnificent country; to the spectacular province of KwaZulu-Natal and, to the warm city of Durban.

​Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms Tokozile Xasa, will be visiting the Vergenoeg area in East London where she and the community will be cleaning and painting the household of Mama Nopasile Haloti marking the closure of the Women’s Month.

​A United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) working group chaired by Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom has led to the United Nations (UN) establishing a new facility to grow tourism in developing countries.

​The National Department of Tourism has identified sport, and in particular, golf, as a revenue-rich niche tourism opportunity. By aligning the two activities we are able to package our nature, wildlife, unique cultures and warm people to provide visiting golf enthusiasts with an enriching travel experience that they would not find easily anywhere else in the world.

​Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms. Tokozile Xasa, highlighted the fact that women need to be in the forefront of the sector as they are the backbone of the industry. “UNWTO has confirmed that women have the highest percentage of representation in the industry, however, women still only represent one fifth of all tourism ministers and tourism board chairs globally”.

​In March 2016, the Department of Tourism will launch the Executive Development Programme for women in the tourism sector. This follows the study conducted in 2011 by the Tourism B-BBEE Charter Council to assess the state of transformation in the tourism sector.

​Located in the metro-south east of the City of Cape Town, the False Bay Ecology Park will be a key component of the City’s Biodiversity Network, and is set to provide recreational and environmental education opportunities for local communities and surrounding schools.

​Not only is it a pleasure for me to be here with you today, it is also a great honour to be a part of the revitalization of the Royal St. Andrews Hotel. This is yet another jewel in the crown of the Sunshine Coast of South Africa.

​The Department of Tourism in collaborations with the City of Tshwane, will host the “Women in Tourism” Breakfast event under the theme “Opening the Doors for Young Women in Tourism.”

​Minister Derek Hanekom kick started tourism month celebrations with a two-day visit to Limpopo where he engaged with tourism business owners, industry stakeholders and academics. The Minister hosted a Business Breakfast event in Polokwane, and Public Lecture in Thohoyandou on issues concerning domestic tourism growth and increasing South Africa’s competitiveness in the global market.

​All the nominees have added to the value chain of the business events industry in some way. The clients you have impressed will talk about their experience to others when they get back home. If their experiences are extraordinary, if they get real value for their money, and if they get exceptional service, they will spread the word and tell others to visit South Africa. And that’s what we want.

​Government values the effort that the people working in hospitality put in every day to take care of our tourists. By providing excellent service and creating memorable experiences for our visitors, you have ensured that South Africa enjoys one of the highest repeat visitor rates in the world.

​The future of our country lies in the hands of our Youth! Without a focus on developing this specific group, we have no foundation on which to build. The key question I would like to pose to you today, as we launch the 7th annual National Tourism Careers Expo, is this: How are we as a country ensuring that the youth of South Africa are empowered to seize their destiny and create for themselves a life that is better than their ancestors.

​Indonesia has a heritage as a trading region since before the 7th century, and as such international relations must be second-nature to the people of this diverse nation. It is little wonder then that we have found such a warm reception to our proposal for engagements between our two countries on the topic of tourism growth.

​This type of milestone achievement for both our countries is about saying joyously “we have come so far, and we are proud of our journey to secure the future of all our people.” I would like to congratulate you on this achievement on behalf of all my fellow South Africans.

​May I say that it is a privilege for me to be able to address you today, and to give you some insight into the reasons why we have prioritised this tourism trade roadshow to South East Asia.

​As developing nations, South Africa and Malaysia have a great deal in common. Both our countries stand at the frontier of a very exciting time in our respective histories, as we continue to go from strength to strength in our economic development.

​Ladies and gentlemen, each September we celebrate Tourism Month in South Africa, and we celebrate World Tourism Day together with the rest of the world on September 27th. What makes the month of September so special in our South African calendar, is that we are also celebrating our heritage, culminating on National Heritage Day on September 24th, a day when many of our attractions are open to the public free of charge.

​There is simply nothing more powerful than tourism to bring people together. We, and the rest of the continent, continue to make rapid progress in claiming our rightful share of the global tourism market. And right now is the time when we most need to stand together. I know that 2015 has been a really tough year for your businesses, with tourist arrivals seeing declines year on year from almost all markets.

​Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom, has announced the appointment of highly respected government administrator Victor Tharage to the post of Director-General of the Department of Tourism.

​The community of Mitchells Plain has derived lasting benefits from Mandela Day activities aimed at supporting the youth, elderly people and those who are physically challenged.

​It is an honour and a privilege to be in the company of key players in the business events industry. This year’s theme: "It’s business – it’s personal" really resonates with me. I firmly believe that the best business done is business driven by passion, conducted with personal integrity, and sincere belief in the greater good.

​St Patricks school, here in the rural Eastern Cape, has a proud track record of matric pass rates. 96% in 2012; 98% in 2013 and 100% in 2014. This can be compared with, and is even better than, many of the schools in big cities who have far better access to resources.

​Mandela Day is not only about doing good - it is about service and it is an opportunity to build upon his lifelong belief that we must live to serve every day, in whatever we do. We also salute the amazing caregivers here today that help you get through your treatments.

​Fundamentally, Mandela Day creates an opportunity for all people, irrespective of their economic, social or political to work together to confront social ills within their communities and to build a better world.

​The event is an initiative of the Nyandeni Local Municipality, aimed at recognising and celebrating the successful achievements of the grade 12 class of 2014.   St Patricks was the top school in the Eastern Cape that achieved a 100% grade 12 pass rate in 2014.

​Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms Tokozile Xasa, will tomorrow visit Bulungula Lodge, a community run project at Nqileni Village in the Eastern Cape.

​KINSHASA (DRC) – Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom and his counterpart in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Mr Elvis Mutiri wa Bashara, have signed an agreement that will strengthen ties between the two countries and promote cooperation in the field of tourism.

​In honour of Mandela Day later this week, The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, together with the Hilton Sandton, will be visiting the children's renal unit at the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital (Joburg General).

​Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, heeded the call to action by government in the run up to the celebration of Mandela day. This is a call to action for the world to participate to be inspired by the theme by contributing 67 minutes of our time to help those in need.

​We have a strong and vibrant cultural diversity and this includes tangible and intangible culture and heritage tourism products in the form of the arts, crafts, festivals, indigenous knowledge systems, oral history, storytelling and folklore, heritage sites, natural heritage, to name but a few.  And we need to share that with the world.

​In honour of Mandela Day later this week, The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, together with some members of the community, will be spending their 67 minutes in cleaning and painting the home of an 82-year old pensioner, Vumile Ndlebende, in the Mbekweni Township close to Fort Jackson.

​The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, will be attending and thereafter addressing a live DVD recording of a stage production entitled “Innocent Africa: The Battle of the Sexes”. This is to promote cultural and heritage tourism through youth development.

I am very proud to be here with you today as we pay tribute to these 27 young people from the Limpopo Province who took up the challenge to train as Food Safety Assurers, and have succeeded with flying colours.

​Distinguished guests, thanks so much for taking time out of your busy lives to celebrate with us the launch of the Tourism Buddies Programme of the Department's Social Responsibility Implementation Skills Development programmes, we will make every effort to keep it short and sweet.

​Tourism is government- led, industry driven with community participation. It has the greatest potential to develop relationships that impact on political, social and economic development in the country. The symbiotic relationship amongst the three continues to grow and is key for us to realise government's commitment to growing the economy and jobs.

​Tourism is making a huge contribution to South Africa’s economy, and is creating hope and opportunity for many, many people in our country. It is arguably the sector of our economy with the greatest competitive advantage.

​At its sixth meeting, the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Working Group on Official Development Assistance (ODA), chaired by the Minister of Tourism in South Africa, Minister Derek Hanekom, approved in principle the creation of a Tourism for Development Facility (TDF) at the UNWTO.

​The office of the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tokoxile Xasa, deeply mourns the passing of one of its strongest brand ambassadors – Anitha Soni, who died this weekend.

​South Africa’s business events strategy is focused on attracting events in 6 economic sectors that have been identified by our government as priorities for future development

​The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, will be delivering an address at the Careers at Hilton Live Event. This is to mark the hotel group's "Youth in Hospitality Month" and it's commitment towards alleviating poverty through its training and developing initiatives.

In line with the National Development Plan, our focus is on inclusive economic growth and job creation. Tourism is recognised as one of the main drivers of the country’s economy and employment. The sector is also recognised as one of the six core pillars of growth in the New Growth Path.

The tourism budget for 2015/16 is R1,8 billion. Considering that this represents only 0,13% of the total budget, we are doing extremely well. According to the latest economic impact report published by the World Travel and Tourism Council, tourism contributed 9.4% to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product in 2014, and almost 10% to employment.

​Media is invited to the Budget Vote briefing session of the Minister of Tourism Mr Derek Hanekom, on 14 May 2015 at 09h00

​Without any doubt, we are confident that over the past three years we have showcased tourism as a career and the employer of choice to young people and indeed this platform will help create a pool of future tourism practitioners that will be the workers of the tourism industry.

​We would like to encourage women-owned tourism enterprises to apply for the support offered under the TIP. The support for tourism grading and market access is only the start. In the years ahead, we will refine and expand the programme to support the accelerated transformation and growth of tourism enterprises. We are already planning a new programme subsidise tourism enterprises to retro-fit their facilities with renewable and more efficient energy systems.

​INDABA 2015 is really big. We have just over 1000 exhibitors from 20 African countries, and about 2000 buyers from the world’s tourism source markets. We also have about 750 members of the media at this event. You – our trade partners, buyers, exhibitors, media partners and other stakeholders – are the people who make it big.  And it is you who make tourism the exciting, growing sector that it is.

​Issues pertaining to the growth and development of tourism in the African continent featured highly on the agenda at the round table discussion, hosted by Minister Derek Hanekom, on the eve of the official opening of the Pan-African Tourism INDABA 2015 in Durban.

SAT is the tourism marketing arm of government. It positions South Africa as a destination of choice both internationally and domestically. Marketing plays a pivotal role for the tourism sector, enabling it to be a lead contributor to economic growth in the country.

​It is a pleasure for me to be here with you today and to pledge our support for this initiative. South Africa has a strong and vibrant cultural diversity and this includes tangible and intangible culture and heritage tourism products in the form of the arts, crafts, festivals, indigenous knowledge systems, oral history, storytelling and folklore, heritage sites, natural heritage, to name but a few. Indeed, we have a rich and vivid history, ideal for cultural tourism.

​Many of us who serve in tourism in South Africa feel extremely privileged and blessed. We feel blessed because of the many amazing tourism assets we have in our country: the beauty of our diverse landscapes, our wildlife and biodiversity, our people and our cultural diversity, and our rich heritage of ancient and recent history.

​Democratic South Africa is premised on respect for human rights and the rule of law. This foundation is inspired by its African values and an appreciation of the power of human solidarity, visibly demonstrated by all our friends across the world and in particular within the continent in our effort to end apartheid.

​It is an honour for me to join you today at the second World Travel Market Africa Exhibition and I would like to extend a very warm South African welcome to you all.

​South African Tourism held its Ubuntu Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the Museum of Natural History in New York. The Ubuntu Awards recognize the top contributors to the tourism industry in South Africa.

​Launching the Stony Point Eco-Centre in the Overstrand region of the Western Cape today, Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom said the new centre and the adjoining restaurant was an important asset for tourism, for nearby communities and for conservation efforts.

The community of Cannon Rocks in the Ndlambe Municipality of the Eastern Cape today becomes the proud owners of hospitality facilities that will increase its readiness to host foreign and domestic tourists, and boost revenue from tourism activities.

​Minister Derek Hanekom, will officially launch and handover facilities constructed at the Stony Point Eco Centre by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Western Cape Oversrand Municipality.  The Stony Point Eco Centre is an initiative solely owned by the members of the Mooiuitsig community, and poised to attract more domestic and international visitors once it has been launched.

​It is also fitting that we are launching the Madiba App in a very important month in our country, a month when we celebrate freedom and democracy.

​Conference Theme: “Tourism: A Catalyst for Local Economic Growth, Job Creation and Transformation”.

Allow me to add my own word of welcome to every one of you participating in this extremely important conference. I am confident that we are all determined to accelerate the pace of transformation in every sector of our economy, in every region of our country, and among all our communities who aspire to a better life. I am also confident that we will use this conference as an opportunity to explore ways of both harnessing the potential of tourism to transform the lives of people, and to seek effective ways of achieving positive transformation in the sector itself.

​The Department of Tourism welcomes the recent release of the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) for South Africa showing that tourism consistently grew the number of tourism jobs, while continuing to make a 3% direct contribution to GDP.

The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms Tokozile Xasa in partnership with the City of Tshwane will host the Women in Tourism Conference aimed at addressing economic issues and sharing information for economic empowerment amongst women in the sector.

​Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom has welcomed the appointment of Mr Sisa Ntshona as the Chief Executive Officer of South African Tourism. The appointment has been approved by the Cabinet and was announced today by the Chairperson of the SA Tourism Board, Dr Tanya Abrahamse.

​After visiting the Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Facility and fuelled by my passion and based on their needs, I have decided to adopt this facility in my personal capacity as well as assist them through interventions from my department. This is with a particular focus on female offenders.

​In celebration of Women’s Month, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, will be delivering the key note address at the Inaugural WOVSA International Women’s Cooperative Indaba, 22 - 24 August 2016.

​The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, invites you to join her and members of the Berlin Community tomorrow at 10h00, Eastern Cape, as they visit Imizamayethu High School. In honour of Woman's Month and to promote Social Tourism, she will be handing over sanitary towels to 170 young girls.

Sustainability’ and ‘going green’ are buzzwords that are easily interchangeable but not everyone knows how to go about achieving this and hopefully this conference will provide a clear roadmap of how this can be done.

​Tourist arrivals in South Africa are continuing on their growth trajectory, according to the latest release from Statistics SA. More than 760 000 tourists arrived in the country in May this year, 11% more than in May 2015.

​Deputy Minister Tokozile Xasa, in partnership with the Unisa Graduate School of Business Leadership, will host a breakfast event to celebrate the commencement of the Executive Development Programme (EDP) for women in tourism.

On behalf of the government and the people of the Republic of South Africa, I extend to the government and the people of the French Republic our heartfelt congratulations on this special celebration of the National Day of France. 

​The Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom, has announced the names of the new members of the Tourism B-BBEE Charter Council at its first meeting on 30 June 2016.

​The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, will travel to East Asia to conduct a series of South African Tourism Trade Workshops. This will take place in China 26 June – 1 July; Korea 2 July – 5 July and Japan 6 July - 9 July 2016.

​Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom instructed the Department to take immediate action after a prospective visitor to the guest house in northern KwaZulu-Natal complained about the racist accommodation policy at the establishment.

​Today we are gathered here to celebrate your achievement as young people and the commitment that you have shown in securing your own futures.

The Department of Tourism, as signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the South African Chefs Association (SACA), to be its implementing partner of its Extended Public Works Social Responsibility Implementation Programme, in the field of Professional Cookery for the selected beneficiaries nationwide.

Trade exhibitions like SAITEX is at the forefront of our development objectives of bringing together buyers and sellers under one roof to conduct business that will ensure growth for our economy.

​The annual Travel and Tourism Fair showcases Africa's best tourism products and attracts buyers from different source markets within Africa.

​We are born to be travellers. We feel a sense of connection and solace from experiencing the natural splendour of the world, and we derive meaning from experiencing the culture and traditions of people we have never met before. We become part of the bigger family of humankind.

​Deputy Minister Xasa highlighted the need for communities to turn their culture and heritage into tourism businesses. “We need to promote local development, in order to lure tourists in the area. There needs to be a boom in the hospitality industry, restaurant, authentic crafts market, small and medium businesses’’, said Xasa.

​Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom has reassured travellers to South Africa of their safety, following an alert issued by the US Embassy in Pretoria at the weekend.

​The benefits of access to quality education, and the benefits of growth in tourism, have one thing in common: they both contribute directly to resolving the many challenges of our times.  Education, knowledge and skills constitute the foundation essential for the growth and healthy development of our society.  And tourism is now without a doubt one of the most important sectors that has the potential to get our economy back on to a healthy growth path.