tourism latest news in south africa

SA Tourism looking at full recovery in 2024

• Minister Patricia De Lille Launching the 2024 edition of #MeetingsAfrica
• Image Credits :
• @Tourism_gov_za
• Katlego Legodi
• 24 January 2024, 18:20 [SAST]

The South African tourism industry is gearing up to achieve its full recovery this year. The sector has its sight on hosting some of the major international events from this year up to 2029 with a total revenue of R1.2 billion.

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has launched the 2024 edition of Africa’s leading business events tourism trade show, named Meetings Africa. The event which is scheduled to take place in Sandton between the 26th and 28th February 2024 will host over 3 000 African business owners including exhibitors and buyers.

Thousands of tourism practitioners are expected to gather in Sandton in the coming month for the 2024 Meetings Africa event from 51 countries including key source markets such as USA, India, Kenya, Brazil, the UK and Germany amongst others.

De Lille officially launched the event with expectations of the Meetings Africa 2024 building on economic successes from last year’s event.

“Last year we attracted 273 hosted buyers and 355 exhibitors from 22 African countries and welcomed over 2 900 delegates and the economic impact the meetings Africa 2023 made a substantial contribution of R388.5 million to the South African economy and in addition to verified figures shows also that Meetings Africa 2023 created and maintained 753 jobs within the economy,”

This is an annual multi stakeholder event that speaks to economic growth, with South Africa through the SA National Convention Bureau and the SA business event industry submitting 63 bids to host international meetings and exhibitions in the country between 2024 and 2029 valued at over R1. 2 billion.

“I was encouraged by today’s conversations because you didn’t have just the representative from National entity talking about Meetings Africa and the role of the event in creating a positive economic impact, you had provinces and our Tourism partners from the private sector and the importance of that, we are then able to look forward, not a once off commitment to a singular year. So, when you talk 2029 it’s what is the strategic vision for meetings Africa for the longest term and for me it’s creating a MICE industry that is long term and sustainable,” says SA Tourism Acting CEO Nombulelo Guliwe.

The launch also saw a panel discussion amongst stakeholders with small businesses calling for an inclusive event that will ensure their maximum participation.

“What my expectation is for Meetings Africa 2024 is to ensure that we finally get to a space where an inclusive economy is something that is prioritised primarily by this I mean not leaving the youth behind, I think at a macro level we all understand that unemployment in South Africa is very high and particularly affects the young people of South Africa, so one is to see demonstrations of market access to the event, it keels but also to the ecosystem that exists post all of that,” says SizweSihle Dlamini, Entrepreneur.

The Tourism Minister says South Africa’s Tourism numbers have picked up at 96 % with the ministry anticipating a full recovery in 2024 and the minister believes key to this will be the easing of visa regulations through an air access strategy that will be presented to government in March.

Government and Tourism role players looking to generate substantial social and inclusive economic impacts through the 2024 meetings Africa event, create well needed jobs and ensure a sustainable development of the tourism value chain on the continent and globally.

Video: Tourism Minister De Lille launches 2024 edition of Meetings Africa to be held from 26-28 Feb:

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Tourism industry has not recovered to pre-COVID levels: De Lille

SA tourism sector goes from strength to strength

South Africa’s tourism sector continues to exhibit strong recovery post-COVID-19, with the first half of 2023 recording more than 4 million tourist arrivals.

This is a significant increase from the 2.3 million tourist arrivals between January and June 2022.

The total number of tourist arrivals to South Africa between January and June 2023 showed a 78.2% surge in the first half of 2023 when compared to the same period in 2022.

“There has also been a substantial increase across all regions in the same period. Although the current growth demonstrates signs of recovery, we are still operating at 80% of our pre-pandemic capacity. In 2019 South Africa welcomed more than 5 million tourists between January and June,” Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said.

De Lille said the African region continues to bring the largest share of tourist arrivals to the country.

“We are pleased with the number of visitors that our country continues to receive from the rest of the African continent. This is a testament to the marketing efforts that we have implemented to attract tourists from this region. 

“Africa remains a key source market for us, and we are committed to collaborating as a tourism sector to make sure we welcome visitors from this region and that we cater for their needs and preferences.

“Beyond the African continent, South Africa has welcomed more visitors from other regions too. These robust figures showcase South Africa’s charm and attractiveness as well as the work that we are doing in marketing South Africa as a tourist destination of choice,” de Lille said.

De Lille said the substantial increase, particularly from Australasia and Asia, reflects the global trend towards post-pandemic travel recovery. 

“We are growing stronger each day and we are determined to pass pre-COVID-19 arrival numbers. South Africa is open for tourism, and we are ready to welcome more tourists from across Africa and the globe to experience our diverse cultures and heritage.

“I wish to express my deepest gratitude to all travellers who chose to explore our country and contributed to the tourism sector’s growth and to our economy. The support of travellers, both domestic and international, has played a crucial role in revitalizing our economy and restoring the vibrancy to our tourism sector.

“I also wish to thank the tourism private sector across the country for all your hard work to grow our tourism offering, promote South Africa as a must-see destination and for your amazing hospitality in welcoming and hosting our visitors,” the Minister said.

South Africa was recently honoured by readers of the UK’s Telegraph Travel publication with the title of "Best Country" while Cape Town claimed the coveted title of "Best City in the World”. – SAnews.gov.za  

Minister Patricia De Lille unveils latest tourism statistics for South Africa

Good day, goeie more, sanibonani

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to this exhilarating media briefing where we'll unveil the latest tourism statistics for South Africa, showcasing our country's resurgence in the international travel market!

Our data is sourced from reliable authorities such as the Department of Home Affairs, which collects information from all ports of entry on a monthly basis.

Stats SA refines this data in line with international standards and classifications to subset the tourists.

SA Tourism, the entity of the Department of Tourism, carries out a monthly survey involving departing foreigners at OR Tambo & Cape Town International Airports, and from 12 border posts with the most arrivals.

The arrivals data from StatsSA is used to weight the survey data for quantification of trip characteristics such as length of stay, spend, purpose of visit etc.

This enables us to estimate international tourism's contribution & value from a demand-side. In summary, the arrivals data we present is the same with Stats SA data.

The SA Tourism entity, under the Department of Tourism’s departure survey stands as the only official survey in the country capable of measuring these statistics.

This departure survey has undergone the Stats SA process of quality certification, the South African Statistical Quality Assessment Framework (SASQAF).

The pandemic undoubtedly left a dent in the tourism industry, but we're back, stronger than ever, and geared to catapult our inbound tourism numbers beyond pre-COVID levels.

Achieving this monumental goal requires a united front: government, private sector, and all tourism stakeholders joining forces to redefine the travel experience in our beloved country.

As the world reawakens, tourists are flocking back to South Africa, enticed by our unparalleled natural beauty and the warmth of our people.

We are broadcasting a clear message: South Africa is open for tourism, welcoming business, and eagerly awaiting travellers from across Africa and the globe.

2022 heralded a resurgence, with nearly 5.8 million visitors gracing our shores, including 4 million from Africa. This stunning 152.6% increase from 2021 is just the beginning.

We're not quite at the 10 million arrivals of 2019, but rest assured, our tireless collaboration with the private sector and Africa will take us there and beyond in no time.

Latest Statistics: Quarter 1: January to March 2023

Now, for the big reveal: international arrivals to South Africa for Q1 (January to March 2023).

An impressive 2.1 million visitors, a 102.5% increase compared to the same period in 2022. While still 21.5% lower than 2019 levels, we're gaining ground rapidly.

The African continent led the way again with 1.6 million arrivals, followed by Europe's 387 000 and the Americas' 104 000 visitors.

The world is rediscovering South Africa, and together, we'll not only reach, but surpass pre-COVID numbers.

Our determination and unity will light the way to a brighter future for South African tourism.

From a domestic perspective, we have seen an incredible resilience with Q1 2023 performance surpassing pre-pandemic levels and those of Q1 2022.

Foreign Spend and Tourism Impact

In the first quarter of 2023, foreign direct spend soared to an astounding R25.3 billion, marking a 143.9% increase compared to Q1 of 2022.

Tourists from Europe contributed the most spend of R10,8 billion, followed by Africa with a collective spend of R9,3 billion.

The overall foreign spend figure for quarter 1 this year is tantalizingly close to the R25.6 billion spent between January and March 2019 and showcases the industry's unwavering resilience.

We witnessed remarkable growth in spending from our Zimbabwean and Mozambican visitors, with Q1 2023 figures reaching R4.4 billion (50% above 2019 performance) and R1.1 billion (12% above 2019 performance) respectively.

However, spend from UK visitors dipped by 27% to R3.2 billion, while visitors from the USA contributed a robust R2.6 billion, surging 28% above 2019 performance.

A significant driver of these remarkable figures is as a result of lifting of travel restrictions and affordability.

After two years of restrictions and confinement, travellers are eager to explore wide-open spaces, and South Africa offers these in abundance.

Top Source Markets and Travel Trends

In Q1 (January to March 2023, Zimbabwe maintained its reign as South Africa's top source market, a trend consistent since 2019.

Over 500,000 Zimbabwean travellers journeyed to South Africa between January and March 2023, compared to 643 000 in the same period in 2019 and 173 000 in 2022.

Mozambique followed as the second-largest source market, boasting over 354 000 arrivals between January and March 2023.

Next in line were Lesotho and Eswatini, taking the third and fourth spots, respectively.

The United Kingdom claimed the fifth position, with more than 118 000 arrivals in South Africa between January and March 2023, a decrease from 135 000 in 2019.

Germany, USA, Botswana, Namibia, and the Netherlands round out the top 10 source markets for travellers to our country.

Across the board, we've seen a 102% surge in total arrivals from 2022 to 2023 during Q1, reflecting South Africa's attractiveness to international visitors.

The number of bed nights has also recovered in Q1 2023 but not to the Q1 2019 levels.

Total bed nights amounted to 28.4 million in Q1 of 2023, this being a 3% decline over Q1 2019 but a remarkable 124% increase over Q1 2022.

Another promising trend is the 11% increase in the average length of stay in Q1 2023 compared to 2022.

Visitors are spending more time exploring South Africa, with the average stay reaching 13 days in Q1 2023, surpassing the 11-day average in 2019.

These numbers showcase South Africa's undeniable magnetism and the vitality of our tourism industry as we continue to welcome travellers from around the globe with open arms.

Geographical Spread and Travel Destinations

South Africa offers a diverse range of captivating destinations for travellers, with Gauteng taking the lead in international arrivals, spend and bed nights.

International visitors tend to spend most of their nights in the Western Cape, followed by Gauteng. The Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, KZN, and the North West also draw tourists to their unique charms.

While smaller provinces currently see fewer visitors, we encourage tourists to explore these hidden gems, as they too boast unparalleled beauty and value.

South Africa's diverse landscape promises a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking adventure and discovery across our magnificent country.

South Africa vs. Other Long-Haul Destinations and Global Trends

South Africa's tourism industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, outshining other popular destinations like China, France, Italy, and Brazil.

Despite a 44.3% drop in arrivals in 2022 compared to 2019, our nation achieved an outstanding 141.9% increase compared to 2021.

The global landscape has posed challenges, including inflation, rising energy prices, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, leading to economic constraints worldwide.

As a result, we must market ourselves more aggressively and exploit all avenues to expand our reach in major source markets like Africa, Europe, China, the USA, the UK, and India.

South Africa offers travellers unparalleled beauty and affordability, making it an irresistible destination.

Embracing travellers from every region is essential, with a particular focus on Africa. Destination marketing trends emphasize eco-friendly activities and accommodations, as well as inclusivity for the LGBTQI+ community.

Collaboration with local businesses, cultural organizations, and community groups is key to creating accessible and diverse tourism experiences.

Air Access and New Routes

Air capacity has risen since last year, with a 56% increase in Q1 2023 compared to the same quarter in 2022. In 2023, we reached 1.8 million seats, and South Africa welcomed around 23 new routes.

New direct flights, such as Cape Town to New York and Washington by United Airlines, Air China's resumed direct flight to South Africa.

The upcoming LATAM flight from Brazil to OR Tambo International Airport, contribute to our nation's appeal. South African Airways' expansion into various African markets further boosts our attractiveness.

In terms of aviation supply, seats from the Americas doubled in Q1 2023, surpassing 2019 levels.

The Middle East has fully recovered in outbound travel, and Europe has introduced 5 new airlines and routes to South Africa.

Domestic Travel

January-March of 2023 saw domestic overnight trips exceed pre-pandemic levels as well as 2022 levels by 41,0%.

Overnight domestic spend was also up 24,4% compared to Q1 2022.

Average overnight spend was down 11,7% signifying that South Africans took more frequent trips and spent less.

The total number of nights spent away from home reached 27,9 million and this was a 32,9% increase over the same period in 2022.

The average length of stay per trip fell by 5,7% highlighting the global trend that travellers now opt to take shorter and more frequent trips than before.

Domestic holiday trips from January to March 2023 were up 40,5% compared to 2022 to reach 2,4 million. These holiday trips represented a 27,0% share of total overnight trips.

The expenditure from holiday trips in Q1 of 2023 was R9,5 billion compared to R7.9billion in 2022.

There was a 12,3% increase in MICE trips (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) taken during January and March 2023.

For the 2022/23 Financial Year, the South African National Conventions Bureau’s Sales team has won 40 of the bids submitted for the 2022/23 financial year.

These secured business pieces will contribute R338m to South Africa’s economy between 2022 -2025 and attract 16 505 international and regional delegates.

In addition, the SA National Convention Bureau invested R19.2m in bid submissions through its bid support programme to attract business events linked with the National Government’s development priorities.

The secured conferences will also contribute to the regional spread of business events.

The secured MIC events include the International Congress of African Phytomedicine Scientific Society, the Southern African Neurological Association Conference and the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) Global Congress.

The various MICE events will be hosted in Johannesburg, Tshwane, Hammanskraal, Cape Town, Bloemfontein, Durban, Mokgopong, Muldersdrift and Pietermaritzburg.

Returning to domestic numbers, day trips grew by 26,9% to reach 44,7 million in quarter 1 of 2023.

Domestic travellers travel mostly for visiting friends and relatives, followed by holiday.

The top three provinces visited were Gauteng, Limpopo, and Eastern Cape.

In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, our numbers are moving in the right direction.

With focused action on improving visa turnaround times, increasing air access, ensuring safety, and aggressive marketing, we are determined to surpass pre-COVID levels.

Working together with all stakeholders, we aim to boost tourism's contribution to the economy and job creation.

Thank you all for your time and support and coverage of the Africa Travel Indaba.

Enquiries: Zara Nicholson: Media Liaison Officer Cell: 079 416 5996. E-mail: [email protected]

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South Africa’s Travel & Tourism’s Growth to Outpace the National Economy for the Next 10 Years

South Africa’s Travel & Tourism’s growth to outpace the national economy for the next 10 years

Travel & Tourism to create more than 800,000 jobs over the next decade

London, UK: The World Travel & Tourism Council ( WTTC ) has revealed the South African Travel & Tourism’s GDP will drive the national economic recovery over the next decade.

The forecast from WTTC’s Economic Impact Report (EIR) shows the South African Travel & Tourism sector is forecasted to grow at an average rate of 7.6% annually over the next decade, significantly outstripping the 1.8% growth rate of the country’s overall economy.

By 2032, the sector’s contribution to GDP could reach more than ZAR 554.6 billion (7.4% of the total economy), injecting nearly ZAR 287 billion into the national economy.

The sector is also expected to create more than 800,000 jobs over the next decade, to reach more than 1.9 million by 2032.

Although the data reveals a bright future for South Africa’s Travel & Tourism sector, the recovery was seriously hampered after the detection and surge of the Omicron variant.  

Many countries around the world placed severe and damaging restrictions on African countries, which caused even further damage to those economies and put thousands more livelihoods at risk.

By the end of this year, Travel & Tourism’s contribution to GDP is expected to grow 37.2% year on year, to nearly ZAR 268 billion (4.3% of total economy).

Employment in the sector is set to grow by 3.8%% to reach more than 1.1 million jobs.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Although the future looks bright for the South African Travel & Tourism sector, the recovery this year will be slower than expected.

“Knee-jerk travel restrictions imposed over South Africa and other African destinations were impulsive and unjustified. Instead of punishing, these countries should have been praised for discovering the variant early.

“However, with GDP contribution and jobs on the rise, the long-term forecast looks very positive.”

In 2019, the South African Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP as a share of total economy was 6.4% (ZAR 405.2 billion), falling to just 3.1% (ZAR 180 billion) in 2020, which represented a staggering 55.6% loss.

The sector also supported more than 1.5 million jobs across the country, before suffering a 29.9% drop, falling to just over one million.

WTTC’s latest EIR report also reveals that 2021 saw the beginning of the recovery for South Africa’s Travel & Tourism sector.

Last year, its contribution to GDP climbed 8.4% year on year, to reach just over ZAR 195 billion.

The sector also saw a recovery of 20,000 Travel & Tourism jobs, representing a 1.9% rise to reach almost nearly 1.1 million.

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From coast to culture: South Africa’s sustainable tourism journey

S S ustainability in tourism isn’t a grand gesture or some abstract concept, but rather about the people, their heritage and prosperity and the planet,” writes Bronwen Auret of South African Tourism.

Navigating the intricate landscape of modern tourism, especially post-COVID-19 pandemic, one fundamental question resonates deeply: How do we meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs? At its core, sustainability is about securing our continued survival on this planet. Nowhere is this more evident than in South Africa, where our rich and diverse cultural heritage intertwines with the imperative of preserving our natural environment.

From marine conservation to sustainable agriculture and farm stays, community-based ecotourism, and township tourism, South Africa offers a diverse array of sustainable tourism experiences.

In our pursuit of sustainability, we acknowledge that the heart of our tourism lies within our people. The true essence of South Africa is discovered within their stories, traditions, and communities. We are renowned not solely for our breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures but also for the warmth and friendliness of the people. According to the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report, South Africa consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for tourism competitiveness, with factors such as the “attitude of the population towards foreign visitors” contributing to its allure.

Community-based ecotourism lies at the heart of our sustainability efforts, empowering local communities to benefit from tourism while preserving their cultural and natural heritage. We boast community-owned lodges such as Bulungula Lodge, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Eastern Cape, which stands as a testament to the transformative power of tourism in uplifting and empowering marginalised communities. The lodge operates entirely off-grid, epitomising a commitment to carbon neutrality.

Moreover, cultural tourism and heritage sites provide a window into South Africa’s rich history and diverse cultural tapestry. From the ancient rock art of the Drakensberg Mountains to the vibrant streets of Soweto in Johannesburg, including the world-famous Vilakazi Street, these experiences preserve our heritage and provide economic opportunities for local communities. Among these treasures is the KwaZulu-Natal iSimangaliso Wetland Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts a variety of ecosystems such as coastal forests, wetlands, and estuaries. Similarly, the Cape Floral Region, renowned as a global biodiversity hotspot, stands out for its extraordinary plant diversity and endemism. It represents less than 0.38% of Africa’s landmass yet harbours nearly 20% of its flora, including five of its twelve endemic families. Despite covering only 90,000 km², this area supports 8,996 plant species and 988 genera, with 32% being unique to the region.

Marine conservation efforts showcase South Africa’s commitment to preserving its coastal ecosystems while promoting responsible tourism. The Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the Western Cape is a shining example of marine conservation. Established in 2004, this MPA encompasses various coastal and aquatic habitats, including kelp forests, rocky shores, and sandy beaches. It serves as a sanctuary for many marine species, including endangered African penguins and Cape fur seals.

Similarly, sustainable agriculture and farm stays allow us to celebrate the bounty of our land while promoting regenerative farming practices and rural development. In Gauteng, one similar example is the African Pride Irene Country Lodge, situated in Centurion. This lodge is set within a working farm environment, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience sustainable farming practices first-hand. The lodge’s organic farm produces fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs used in on-site restaurants to create delicious farm-to-table dishes. Visitors can explore the farm through guided tours, learning about eco-friendly farming techniques and the importance of biodiversity conservation.

Waste management and recycling initiatives are essential for keeping our landscapes pristine and our communities healthy. From beach clean-ups along the Wild Coast to recycling programmes in urban centres, these efforts demonstrate our commitment to responsible tourism and environmental sustainability. One example is the “Clean C” project implemented by the City of Cape Town. The project focuses on coastal clean-up efforts along the beaches of the Wild Coast, aiming to remove litter and debris from these pristine areas and promote environmental conservation.

Wildlife conservation and responsible safaris are synonymous with South Africa’s tourism industry, allowing visitors to witness iconic species in their natural habitats. From the majestic elephants of Kruger National Park to the endangered rhinos of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, these experiences support conservation efforts while providing unforgettable memories for visitors.

Environmental education and conservation programmes that promote sustainability among tourists and locals. The Environmental Education and Training Programme (EETP), led by the Department of Environment, Forestry, and Fisheries, boosts environmental awareness and skills in local communities via educational initiatives. These cover biodiversity conservation, climate change, waste management, and sustainable resource use.

We excel in sustainability stakes, receiving external validation for our efforts. The 2023 WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards recognised excellence in sustainability across the sector, presenting various establishments with awards ranging from silver to Gold. BirdLife South Africa took Gold for best diversity and inclusion. Lemala Camps & Lodges also took Gold for efforts in tackling plastic waste. At the 2022 WTM Responsible Tourism Awards, Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge secured the Gold in “Local Economic Benefit” category. While, the Tzaneen Country Lodge owner received the “Celebrate Her Award” from the International Institute of Peace for Sustainable Tourism at ITB 2024, showcasing our commitment to a sustainable and responsible tourism industry.

In conclusion, as we chart the course for sustainable tourism in South Africa, remember that our greatest asset is our people. By prioritising their well-being, preserving their heritage, and protecting our natural environment, we can ensure that tourism continues to be a force for good in our country for generations to come.

Bronwen is the Chief Quality Assurance Officer at The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, a South African Tourism business unit.

• https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table-mountain
• https://www.southafrica.net/za/en/travel/page/welcome-to-vilakazi-street
• https://www.irenecountrylodge.co.za/contact-us-v1/
• https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/914
• https://thedrakensberg.net/drakensberg-san-rock-art
• https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-travel-tourism-competitiveness-report-2019/
• https://www.westerncape.gov.za/110green/flagships/clean-c-cape-town-beach-cleanup
• https://bulungula.co.za/
•   https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger
•   https://www.hluhluwegamereserve.com/
•  https://www.isimangaliso.com/
•  https://www.naturalworldheritagesites.org/sites/cape-floral-region-protected-areas/
•  https://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/787/237577.html
•   https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/south-african-lodge-named-best-responsible-tourism-destination-in-the-world/
•  https://www.satsa.co.za/news/tourism-tuesdays-latest-updates-sat-1

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More work needs to be done to market and promote South Africa as a destination, says Deputy Minister of Tourism

“There is more to South Africa than Cape Town and the Kruger National Park and more needs to be done to promote South Africa as a destination.”

These were the words of Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela, at the media launch of the Africa Travel Indaba at The Bat Centre in Durban on Tuesday, April 23.

The Africa Travel Indaba will take place from May 13 to 16 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

The launch event was attended by KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism & Environmental Affairs, Siboniso Duma; eThekwini councillor Thembubuhle Ntuli; South African Tourism chair, Makhosazana Khanyile; Tourism KwaZulu-Natal board members; CEO of South African Tourism, Nombulelo Guliwe; Tourism Business Council CEO, Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa and stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry.

With less than a month to the official event, Mahlalela said that Africa Travel Indaba is a great platform to market South Africa and showcase the continent’s unlimited potential after he received feedback from European source markets that South Africa was not doing enough to market the whole country as a destination.

“We should be doing more. We have not tapped substantially into what South Africa is able to offer,” said the deputy minister.

Mahlalela said that the country has been marketed as if it only has two destinations, Cape Town and the Kruger National Park, however, they want to move away from how they’ve been marketing South Africa and show the variety of tourism offerings that are uniquely in each and every province.

“When we are able to market the country holistically in its totality, we will be able to draw as many tourists as possible. It is true that we are not marketing enough.

“We need to pick up our socks and make sure that we do some marketing in a manner that is able to show the products, that as a country we are able to offer the diversity that we are able to offer because we are uniquely South Africans.

“We have unique products that you can’t find anywhere in the continent and we have not been marketing those in a manner that makes the world see value in them and travel to South Africa,” he said.

He said that the Indaba is the continent’s premier travel and tourism tradeshow and a critical platform for showcasing Africa’s diversity and fostering collaboration among its nations.

“This year’s Africa Travel Indaba theme is ‘Unlimited Africa’ emphasising the vast array of experiences and products available across the continent. Africa’s Travel Indaba provides a perfect platform to showcase all we offer,” said Mahlalalela.

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Home » News » South African Airways to relaunch Joburg – Perth flights as economic ties strengthen

South African Airways to relaunch Joburg – Perth flights as economic ties strengthen

South African Airways will fly across the Indian Ocean for the first time since the pandemic today when the first of its relaunched Johannesburg to Perth flights touches down today.

The South African Airways flights will connect 40,000 more passengers per year in each direction, between Perth and Johannesburg using Airbus A340-300s.

Flight Centre Corporate Global COO Melissa Elf said South Africa was an important economic contributor to Australia, particularly in the mining, oil, and gas sectors.

“We’ve seen an eight per cent uplift in demand from our corporate travellers moving between Australia and South Africa in the first quarter of this year, compared to the first quarter of last year,” Elf, said.

“Almost half of that travel is related to the mining, oil, and gas sector, and we see large demand across Arts, Entertainment, Recreation, Construction and Education industries.

“The rate of air capacity compared to before the pandemic has been among Australia’s lowest across all international routes, sitting at 37 per cent prior to these South African Airways flights recommencing.

“From this weekend, we’ll see that jump up to 61 per cent of pre-pandemic capacity, and we’re anticipating it to hit around 90 per cent by the end of the year.

“This is already having a positive impact on the cost of fares, which were down by 11 per cent last quarter, compared to the first quarter of 2023.

“We’re expecting to see this trend continue in the coming months as travellers see new options enter the market.”

Johannesburg flights will depart at 8:55 pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, landing in Perth the next day at 12:20 pm.

Flights from Perth will take off at 11:50 pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, landing in Johannesburg at 4:45 am the following day.

“Australians are a valuable source of foreign direct spend in our economy, contributing to both direct and indirect South African employment through tourism,” head of communications, South African Airways, Vimla Maistry, said.

“Additionally, Mining is a significant economic driver of both economies.

“The route was introduced to service this economic sector.”

Email the Travel Weekly team at [email protected]

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Check travelnews.africa every morning for the latest travel news in sub saharan africa, it is an easy and quick way to keep yourself updated on industry news, trends, warnings, opinions and much more in the region..

The daily updated travel news keeps travel experts fully informed and aware of all travel trends in the sub Saharan Africa Region which enables them to better service their customers. Travelnews.africa has refined navigation, allowing travel experts to search per travel sector i.e. flights, leisure etc. this navigation is located at the top of the portal; and/or search per country, this navigation is at the bottom of the portal, just double click on the country to get that country’s travel news. Travel experts can also search the news portal by using specific words or phrases and entering these into the search bar and click search. Please remember to register on this website, so we can send you your dose of travel news, either daily, bi-daily or weekly, customized as per your requirements.

• 29/04/2024 08:51

Delta Air Lines expands African service: resumes Nigeria flights, and more

Delta Air Lines is reinforcing its position as the leading U.S. carrier to Africa by relaunching daily service from New York-JFK to Lagos , Nigeria, starting December 1st. This initiative complements its existing daily service between Atlanta and Lagos, offering a total of 14 weekly flights to Nigeria in December and 10 weekly fligh… read more

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Money latest: Gameboys, Sindy dolls, designer shoes, 1950s furniture - the items in your attic that could be worth a small fortune

Gumtree's most popular items include rare stamps, Gameboys and Pokemon cards. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment or submit a consumer dispute or money problem in the box.

Monday 29 April 2024 19:46, UK

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Strikes at Heathrow Airport are taking place over the next few weeks, with the first one already under way.

Staff at the UK's biggest airport are set to walk out during the early bank holiday in May, with their union warning planes could be "delayed, disrupted and grounded".

Click here to find out when all the strikes are, what disruption is expected and which airlines are affected...

The average price paid for comprehensive motor insurance rose 1% in the first quarter of the year, according to industry data indicating an easing in the steep rises seen last year.

The latest tracker issued by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) showed a 1% increase on the previous three months to £635.

That was despite the average claim paid rising 8% to reach a record of £4,800, the body said.

The ABI said the disparity showed that its members were "absorbing" additional costs and not passing them on.

Nevertheless, the average policy was still 33%, or £157, higher between January and March compared to the same period last year.

Read the full story here ...

Getir , the grocery delivery app, has abandoned a European expansion that is set to result in the loss of around 1,500 jobs in the UK.

Sky News had previously revealed that the Turkey-based company, which means "to bring" in Turkish, had  successfully raised money from investors to fund its withdrawals  from the UK, Germany and the Netherlands.

It had already departed other countries including Italy and Spain.

The exits were prompted by growing losses linked to the company's rapid expansion.

Waitrose is launching an exclusive range of products with popular chef Yotam Ottolenghi today. 

The Israeli-British chef is famous for his Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-inspired food, and has worked with the supermarket to release products including a pasta sauce, spice blend and shawarma marinade. 

It is the first time Ottolenghi has partnered with a supermarket in such a way. 

The full range will be available in Waitrose shops, Waitrose.com and Ottolenghi.co.uk from today, while a selection of products will be available from the supermarket on Deliveroo and Uber Eats. 

An introductory 20% off offer is being launched until 18 June. 

The range includes: 

• Ottolenghi Miso Pesto 165g (£4)
• Ottolenghi Kalamata Olive & Harissa Sauce  350g (£4.50)
• Ottolenghi Pomegranate, Rose & Preserved Lemon Harissa 170g (£5)
• Ottolenghi Green Harissa 170g (£5)
• Ottolenghi Aleppo & Other Chillies Blend (£3.95)
• Ottolenghi Sweet & Smokey Blend (£3.95)
• Ottolenghi Citrus & Spice Blend (£3.95)
• Ottolenghi Red Chilli Sauce (£4.50)
• Ottolenghi Shawarma Marinade (£4)

Ottolenghi said he had "always been super eager to get our flavours onto people's dinner plates nationwide, not just in London, without having to cook it from scratch every single time". 

He added: "I hate to admit it but the pasta sauce already features heavily in my home kitchen, when no one is looking."

The cost of bread, biscuits and beer could increase this year due to the impact of the unusually wet autumn and winter on UK harvests.

Research suggests that production of wheat, oats, barley and oilseed rape could drop by four million tonnes (17.5%) compared with 2023.

The wet weather has resulted in lower levels of planting, while flooding and storms over winter caused farmers more losses.

The predictions come just as the rate of price increases on many food items begins to slow as inflation falls.

The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) analysed forecasts from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHBD) and government yield data.

It found a "real risk" of beer, biscuits and bread becoming more expensive if the poor harvest increases costs for producers, according to its lead analyst Tom Lancaster.

Beer prices could be affected because the wet weather is still disrupting the planting of spring crops such as barley, the ECIU said.

And potatoes might also see a price hike in the coming months, with growers warning of a major shortage in the autumn due to persistent wet weather.

By Emily Mee , Money team

When I think about the toys of my childhood - my pink Barbie car, my Gameboy Micro, my collection of Pokemon cards - I can't tell you where they went. 

Maybe they were shipped off to a charity shop at some point... Or perhaps they're in the attic? 

While my hot pink Gameboy Micro is lost to the void of time (or a cardboard box somewhere in my mum's house), other versions of it are selling on eBay for £100 or more. 

And there are Pokemon cards selling for anything from a tenner to hundreds or even thousands of pounds. 

It's possible you also have items at home that are a collector's dream. 

Gumtree says its collectables category is already proving to be a "hotbed of activity" this year, with listings up 22% in 2024 so far. 

Its most popular items include rare stamps, coins, war memorabilia and Pokemon cards. 

Spring is often the most popular time for buying and selling collectibles, with demand spiking in March and April. 

We've enlisted the help of TV presenter and collectables expert Tracy Martin to give an idea of what could make you an easy buck. 

Old toys making a 'retro comeback'

Tracy explains that while trends change, vintage toys tend to stand the test of time. 

"Toys are always going to be popular because they tap into nostalgia, our childhood memories," she says, explaining that adults like to buy the toys they used to have. 

Perhaps you were into cars, and you've got some old diecast vehicles from Matchbox, Corgi or Dinky Toys. 

A quick look on toy auction site Vectis.co.uk shows a Corgi Toys "James Bond" Aston Martin estimated to sell for between £600 to £700 - while others are likely to fetch £50 to £60. 

Sindy dolls are also particularly sought after - particularly those from the 1960s - and Barbie dolls from the 1990s too. 

Pokemon cards have seen a "massive surge", Tracy says, with people paying "thousands and thousands of pounds" for good unopened sets. 

She's even seen examples of people paying £16,000 upwards. 

Another up-and-coming market is games consoles, such as Gameboys, vintage consoles and PlayStations, which are making a "retro comeback".

What else could earn you some cash?

Tracy says there's currently a surge in people wanting to buy "mid century" furniture, which is dated to roughly 1945 to 1965 and typically uses clean lines and has a timeless feel. 

Vintage Danish furniture is sought after, particularly tables and chairs with good designer names such as Wegner, Verner Panton and Arne Jacobsen.

Prices range from the low hundreds into the thousands.

People will also look out for vintage framed prints by artists such as Tretchikoff, J.H. Lynch and Shabner - these can range in price from £50 upwards to a few hundred pounds plus. 

Vintage clothes, handbags and shoes can fetch a good price - but you can also invest in modern pieces. 

Tracy suggests looking out for good classic designs with high-end designer names such as Gucci, Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton. 

Modern designers such as Irregular Choice, Vendula and Lulu Guinness are also collected. 

Collaborations with designers and celebrities can do well as they're often limited edition. 

For example, Tracy says the H&M x Paco Rabanne maxi silver sequin dress retailed at £279.99 last year but now sells for in excess of £600. 

When it comes to shoes, "the quirkier the design the better" - so look out for brands such as Irregular Choice and Joe Browns. 

Converse and Dr Martens collaborations also do well, depending on the design and condition, as well as Adidas and Nike limited edition trainers. 

What's the best way to sell?  

Tracy recommends to always research before selling your items, as they might perform better on different platforms and you can also get an idea of how much they sell for. 

For example, Vinted can be a good place to sell clothes and shoes, while other items might be better suited for sale on Gumtree, eBay or Etsy. 

Tracy's favourite way to sell is through auction - especially if there are specialist sales. 

Vectis is one of the biggest and most popular for toy selling. 

Interests in different periods and items can go up and down, but for the time being vintage pieces from the 1980s and 90s are popular. 

How much you'll be able to get from an item often takes into account its rarity, condition, whether it reflects a period in time, and if it's got a good name behind it. 

You never know - you might be sitting on a treasure trove. 

Annual mortgage repayments have increased by up to 70% since 2021, according to new data from Zoopla .

The biggest impact of rising interest rates has been in southern England where house prices are higher.

Across the South West, South East and East of England, the annual mortgage cost for an average home is £5,000 higher than previously. This rises to £7,500 in London.

But the universal uptick in mortgage costs has been less pronounced in other parts of the UK, with the North East seeing a £2,350 increase.

In a bid to tackle inflation, the Bank of England has raised the base rate from 0.1% in December 2021 to a 16-year high of 5.25% now.

The Zoopla research looked at the average home buyer taking out a 70% loan-to-value mortgage.

This week seems to be starting where last week left off - with three major lenders announcing further hikes in mortgage rates.

Amid uncertainty of the timing of interest rate cuts from the Bank of England  this year, swap rates (which dictate how much it costs lenders to lend) have been rising in recent weeks.

Financial markets currently see two rate cuts by the Bank of England this year.

We've reported on a string of rate bumps from the high street over the last 10 days, and this morning NatWest, Santander and Nationwide moved.

In its second hikes announcement in less than a week, NatWest laid out increases across its full range of residential and buy-to-let fixed deals of up to 0.22%.

Santander, meanwhile, announced increases for both fixed and tracker deals across their residential and buy-to-let products - up to 0.25%.

The same hikes are being imposed for a range of Nationwide deals.

All of these will kick in tomorrow.

Amit Patel, adviser at Trinity Finance, told Newspage it was "not a great start to the week". 

"This is not good news for borrowers," he said.

Where will the base rate go this year?

The majority of the bets, according to LSEG data, are on the first cut coming in August (previously this was June) and the second in December.

This would take Bank rate from the current level of 5.25% to 4.75%.

Disabled people could receive vouchers instead of monthly payments under proposed changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

The changes could see people being provided with either one-off grants for specific costs such as home adaptation, or being directed to "alternative means of support" rather than financial support.

Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride is set to announce plans today to overhaul the way disability benefits work.

In a Green Paper due to be published alongside Mr Stride's statement to the Commons, ministers will set out plans to reform Personal Independence Payments (PIP), the main disability benefit, through changes to eligibility criteria and assessments.

The plans also include proposals to "move away from a fixed cash benefit system", meaning people with some conditions, such as depression and anxiety, will no longer receive regular payments but rather get improved access to treatment if their condition does not involve extra costs.

Speaking to Sky News earlier, Mr Stride said: "I want us to have a grown-up, sensible conversation about a benefit called PIP that has not been reviewed in over a decade.

"And I want to ask the question, is it fit for purpose given the world that we're in today, in which mental health issues sadly present more of an issue than they did a decade ago."

By James Sillars , business reporter

A fresh high for the FTSE 100 to start the week.

The index of leading shares in London was 0.5% up at 8,179 in early dealing.

The gains were led by miners and financial stocks.

Dragging on the performance were some consumer-facing brands including JD Sports and Flutter Entertainment.

One other development of note to mention is that stubbornly high oil price.

A barrel of Brent crude is currently trading almost 1% down on the day.

But it remains at $88 a barrel.

The market has been pulled by various forces this month, with hopes of a rebound in demand in China among them.

The latest decline is said to reflect peace talks being held between Israel and Hamas.

A demand for smaller homes has driven growth in UK property prices early in 2024, according to research by Halifax.

Data from the bank's house price index suggests annual property price growth hit 1.9% in February this year - a significant rise from -4.1% just three months prior.

That equates to a rise in prices of £5,318 over the past year.

It follows interest rates stabilising, Halifax says, after a sharp rise over the past two years which squeezed mortgage affordability.

A key driver behind rising prices, Halifax says, has been first-time buyers, who made up 53% of all homes bought with a mortgage in 2023 - the highest proportion since 1995.

And it's smaller homes that have recorded the biggest increases in price growth in the early part of this year - with buyers adjusting their expectations to compensate for higher borrowing costs.

Flats and terraced houses made up 57% of all homes purchased by first-time buyers last year.

This varies by region - for example, in London, flats and terraced homes accounted for 90% of all first-time buyer purchases.

Challenges remain

However, Amanda Bryden, head of Halifax mortgages, said "it's important not to gloss over the challenges" facing the UK housing market, given the "impact of higher interest rates on mortgage affordability" and "continued lack of supply of new homes".

"But scratch beneath the surface and there is a more nuanced story, one which shows that demand for different property types in different parts of the country can vary hugely," she added.

"As interest rates have stabilised and buyers adjust to the new economic reality of owning a home, one way to compensate for higher borrowing costs is to target smaller properties.

"This is especially true among first-time buyers, who have proven to be resilient over recent years, and now account for the largest proportion of homes purchased with a mortgage in almost 30 years."

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