Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille recently launched Tourism Month (September) at the Durban Marina, under the theme “Growing South Africa’s Tourism Sector in the Digital Era.
The theme draws from the global World Tourism Day theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism”.
Attended by government officials and tourism agencies from across the country, the launch highlighted why Durban remained the preferred destination for travellers.
KwaZulu-Natal reportedly had the most overnight stays in the past year, compared to the rest of the country.
De Lille asserts that growing tourism business is not a government responsibility alone; however, the private sector and entrepreneurs should come on board.
Also read: KZN winter tourism brings warm hospitality
“We all have a role to play. Government must create an enabling environment. The private sector must continue developing compelling, competitive, and affordable tourism products. Domestic tourism must be made more accessible.
“Our tourism businesses must continue innovating. Provinces and cities must develop and promote experiences beyond our traditional tourism routes. Technology platforms must help tourism businesses become more visible and discoverable. The media and content creators can help introduce South Africans to places and experiences they may never have considered,” De Lille said.
Also read: Tourism advocate optimistic about Durban’s global ranking
The MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, reiterated the minister’s call.
“For KwaZulu-Natal, this cannot simply be a conversation about technology. The modern traveller discovers destinations differently. People search online, compare experiences, read reviews, watch content, and increasingly use digital platforms to plan, book and pay for their journeys. KwaZulu-Natal already has the product,” Zondi said.
For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
