Pretoria, South Africa – Tourism Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu has reaffirmed the sector’s significance as a key driver of South Africa’s economy. Addressing the recent Tourism Women’s Stakeholder Engagement, Sotyu highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for youth, women, and people with disabilities to pursue tourism careers.
“As the world’s fastest-growing employment sector, tourism continues to evolve, and South Africa is dedicated to building a sustainable industry for future generations,” Sotyu stated. “To achieve sustained and inclusive growth, we must invest in talent development and ensure a skilled workforce that meets the sector’s demands.”
The Department of Tourism has implemented various programs to enhance skills development and support small tourism enterprises. These initiatives include the Wine Service Training Program, Chefs Training Program, and the Tourism Incentive Market Access Support Program.
Tourism Month, celebrated annually in September, provides a platform to raise awareness of the sector’s importance and encourage domestic travel. This year’s theme, “Tourism and Peace – 30 years of connecting People to Places and Cultures,” aligns with the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) World Tourism Day celebrations.
The recent inscription of South African human rights and liberation struggle sites on UNESCO’s World Heritage List further enhances the country’s brand value and competitiveness as a tourist destination.
Sotyu emphasized that tourism is not only about generating revenue but also about fostering goodwill and promoting social inclusion.
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