In a strategic move poised to enhance ties between South Africa and Ghana, SA's Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille has embarked on a significant outreach programme in Ghana.
The initiative aims to strengthen tourism partnerships and foster cultural exchange between the two nations, highlighting the importance of collaboration in Africa.
During her visit, De Lille will engage with Honourable Abla-Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts of Ghana.
Their discussions will encompass various tourism trade stakeholders, including representatives from the South Africa-Ghana Chamber of Commerce and key media personnel.
This engagement aims to showcase SA as an attractive destination not only for leisure travel, but also for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).
A pivotal element of this outreach is the recent easing of visa regulations that took effect in November 2023.
This progressive adjustment has been fundamental in unlocking substantial tourism potential between the two countries, enabling a seamless travel experience for both South Africans and Ghanaians.
The changes also encourage a robust exchange of business, leisure, and culture, marking a promising chapter for tourism and trade partnerships.
De Lille expressed the importance of Ghana to SA’s tourism sector, stating, “Ghana and the broader African continent are incredibly important markets for South Africa’s tourism sector. This visit reaffirms our dedication to deepening partnerships and unlocking growth opportunities through meaningful collaboration.”
The minister highlighted that Ghana has shown remarkable growth, with a staggering 149% increase in tourist arrivals to SA in 2024 compared to 2023.
This surge, amounting to 36,656 Ghanaian visitors, has been largely attributed to the introduction of a visa waiver, allowing for 90 days of visa-free travel within a year.
The significance of De Lille’s visit is further underscored by its timing; SA is hosting the G20 Summit this year, a notable occasion that positions the country as a growing influencer on the global stage, committed to fostering impactful partnerships across Africa.
“We recognise the immense potential of intra-African travel to drive economic development, cultural exchange, and shared prosperity. It is for this reason that we are conducting this outreach mission to strengthen relations and partnerships with our counterparts in Ghana,” De Lille added.
The outreach programme opens up avenues for senior officials from both nations to delve into bilateral tourism issues, enhancing the prospects of a mutually beneficial relationship.
In a world increasingly pivoting towards collaboration and unity, such initiatives are vital for tapping into Africa’s tourism potential.