South Africa’s tourism industry welcomes a new era with the appointments of a permanent CEO, Nombulelo Guliwe, and a diverse new board. This news comes after a period of instability, following the dissolution of the previous board and the position of CEO changing hands five times since May 2021.
Guliwe, a seasoned finance professional with extensive experience in SA Tourism, assumes the CEO role after serving as Acting CEO since September 2023. The new board, led by Chairperson Makhosazana Khanyile, boasts a wealth of experience and qualifications, including law degrees, PhDs, and industry expertise.
Industry leaders are optimistic about the new leadership. Tourism Business Council Board Chairperson Jerry Mabena believes the appointments will stabilize the organization and elevate South Africa’s image as a top tourist destination. SATSA CEO David Frost echoed these sentiments, commending the collaborative and thorough appointment process. He highlighted the inclusion of two SATSA members on the board, underscoring the importance of private-sector collaboration.
FEDHASA National Chair Rosemary Anderson views the appointments as a crucial step forward for the industry, highlighting the new leadership’s potential to advocate for the industry and develop effective growth strategies.
Sandile Ntseoane, General Manager of Savrala, emphasizes the significance of a stable and effective SA Tourism for the entire ecosystem. He believes these appointments will enhance collaboration and accelerate the sector’s growth.
The Department of Tourism congratulates Ms Nombulelo Guliwe as the new South African Tourism Chief Executive Officer.@SATravelTrade #WeDoTourism pic.twitter.com/6jnRimsWGs
— Dept of Tourism (@Tourism_gov_za) February 29, 2024