Tourism Month 2024 Launch: ‘Tourism and Peace’ 30 Years of Connecting People and Culture

Today 20 August 2024, Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille and Northern Cape Premier Dr. Zamani Saul officially launched the 2024 Domestic Tourism Programme in Kimberley at Batsumi Guesthouse, marking the beginning of Tourism Month 2024. This year, the focus is on the Northern Cape, a province rich in potential and poised to play a key role in South Africa's economic and tourism growth.

Premier Saul highlighted the untapped potential of the Northern Cape, emphasizing the province’s abundant solar power resources as a solution to South Africa's electricity challenges. He also discussed the strategic development of the Boegoebaai Port and the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which are set to drive industrial growth, create jobs, and attract investment to the region.

Minister de Lille expressed her excitement about the Northern Cape’s unique offerings, particularly in the field of astro-tourism. The province is home to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) near Carnarvon, the world’s largest radio telescope, positioning the Northern Cape as a leader in scientific innovation and a top destination for astro-tourism.

The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Innovation, is finalizing the National Astro-Tourism Strategy, which will position South Africa as a world-class astro-tourism destination. The Northern Cape, with its clear skies and advanced astronomy projects, is central to this initiative.

Tourism is a vital sector for South Africa’s economy, contributing 8.8% to GDP in the first quarter of 2024. The goal is to increase this to 10.4% by 2030. The Northern Cape’s diverse offerings, from its natural beauty to strategic projects like the Boegoebaai Port and SEZs, are key to attracting more visitors and boosting the local economy.

Minister de Lille encouraged all South Africans to explore and promote the Northern Cape, celebrating Tourism Month as a time for both enjoyment and advocacy, ensuring that tourism contributes to economic growth and improved quality of life for all.