Tourism is one of South Africa’s key economic drivers, drawing millions of visitors to destinations ranging from the Drakensberg and KwaZulu-Natal’s beaches to the vineyards of the Western Cape, the Kruger and the economic hub of Johannesburg.
But as the country marks Tourism Month, the focus is shifting beyond attracting visitors to how the sector can grow, create jobs and ensure more of the money generated by tourism reaches businesses, workers and communities across the country.
This September, that conversation is being driven by the theme “Growing South Africa’s Tourism Sector in the Digital Era”, placing technology at the centre of efforts to expand the industry, improve access to destinations and connect more travellers with tourism businesses.
Reflecting on the significance of Tourism Month, Kele Lekalake, Managing Director of Harvey World Travel Southern Africa and BID Travel Ambassadors, said the economic value of tourism extends far beyond leisure.
“Tourism is one of South Africa’s most powerful economic enablers. It creates jobs, drives foreign exchange, supports small businesses, and stimulates growth across multiple sectors, from transport and hospitality to technology and retail. Tourism is not just about holidays; it is about economic opportunity, entrepreneurship, and community development. Every traveller creates a ripple effect that benefits people and businesses throughout the value chain,” Lekalake says.
