Minister Tokozile Xasa outlines importance of Tourism Indaba

The 25th annual Tourism Indaba is currently taking place in the vibrant city of Durbin, South Africa, bringing together key players in the tourism industry from across the continent. CNBC Africa recently had the opportunity to interview South Africa's Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, who highlighted the significance of this renowned tourism marketing event. Minister Xasa emphasized that the Tourism Indaba serves as a critical platform to showcase Africa's diverse offerings to the world. With over two decades of experience, this event plays a pivotal role in promoting the continent's natural beauty, infrastructure investments, and cultural heritage. Minister Xasa expressed pride in South Africa's commitment to not only its own development but also to contributing to the growth and prosperity of the entire African continent. The magnitude of the Tourism Indaba is evident as it stands as the third-largest travel trade show globally, following only the World Travel Market and ITB Berlin. This year's event features participation from 21 African countries, along with high-level political leaders and ambassadors. The collaboration among African nations is crucial in creating attractive and affordable travel packages for visitors, positioning Africa as a premier destination for international travelers. Minister Xasa's words underscore the collective effort towards packaging Africa's tourism offerings and enhancing global interest in the region. One of the key focal points of the interview was the importance of inclusivity in the tourism sector, particularly in empowering women and youth in South Africa. Minister Xasa acknowledged President Cyril Ramaphosa's call for radical economic transformation and outlined the government's initiatives to accelerate the involvement of women and young people in the growing tourism industry. She highlighted the targeted interventions aimed at facilitating access for underrepresented groups, such as the establishment of a 30% set-aside for women across government initiatives. Additionally, Minister Xasa emphasized the importance of innovation and technology in engaging the youth, encouraging them to develop applications and online platforms that cater to the evolving needs of modern travelers. By fostering inclusivity and harnessing the potential of women and youth, the tourism sector in South Africa is poised to drive economic growth and create sustainable opportunities for all stakeholders. The conversation with Minister Xasa shed light on the multifaceted impact of the Tourism Indaba, from promoting Africa's rich tourism offerings to advancing economic inclusivity and empowerment within the industry. As the event continues to evolve and expand its reach, the future of tourism in Africa appears promising and full of exciting prospects.