Tourism can reboot SA's economy
Tourism hasn't realised a fraction of its potential in South Africa because the government still doesn't believe in it, says recently appointed South African Tourism CEO Sisa Ntshona
Tourism hasn't realised a fraction of its potential in South Africa because the government still doesn't believe in it, says recently appointed South African Tourism CEO Sisa Ntshona. It is still regarded as a largely white industry, affecting white people and largely benefiting white people. "The case for tourism has not been made in this country. Most people still perceive it as an elitist thing that is done only by wealthy (white) people." He says this is the prevailing view in the government. There has been a failure to understand and communicate the economic importance of tourism. "South Africans need to be educated and informed about the impact of tourism on the economy, its ripple effect on other sectors - how everyone's wellbeing and economic prosperity can be linked to tourism." This applies first and foremost to members of the government. "The government itself needs to be educated and informed about the nature and benefits for the country of tourism." Its attitude to tour...
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