![President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers an address to honour and pay tribute to King Shaka kaSenzangakhona during the occasion of the unveiling of his statue at the King Shaka International Airport Precinct in Durban. [ Photos: GCIS]](https://theafricadailypost.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/54124917743_346da08a35_k-860x623.jpg)
President Cyril Ramaphosa has pointed to South Africa’s natural and cultural assets as key drivers of inclusive economic growth, with tourism emerging as a major contributor to job creation and revenue generation.
In his weekly newsletter, the President described the country’s natural beauty and heritage as a vital economic resource that attracts millions of international visitors annually. Among the top attractions are 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Robben Island, the Cradle of Humankind, and the Kruger National Park.
Citing the recovery of the tourism sector after the COVID-19 pandemic, Ramaphosa noted that South Africa welcomed 8.5 million international tourists in 2023, generating over R95 billion in revenue. Domestic tourism remains a key pillar, with South Africans making over 21 million trips within the country in the first half of last year.
The President highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the sector, including simplifying visa requirements, enhancing safety at tourist sites, and investing in infrastructure. Tourism employs approximately 1.5 million people in South Africa, and government programs like the Presidential Employment Stimulus are helping to create more jobs, particularly for young people.
South Africa’s hosting of the G20 summit this year offers an opportunity to showcase the country as a premier travel destination. The summit will also emphasize tourism’s role in creating jobs and promoting sustainable development.
