South African Tourism Minister visits Ghana to strengthen bilateral tourism relations

South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, has embarked on a strategic outreach visit to Ghana from March 26 to 28, aimed at deepening tourism partnerships and fostering cultural exchange between the two nations.

During the visit, Minister de Lille is engaging with Ghana’s Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla-Dzifa Gomashie, as well as key stakeholders, including the South Africa-Ghana Chamber of Commerce, tourism industry leaders, and the media.

The discussions focus on positioning South Africa as a prime destination for both leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism.

The outreach follows the November 2023 easing of visa restrictions between Ghana and South Africa, which has significantly boosted tourism and trade. Since the introduction of the visa waiver, Ghanaian tourist arrivals in South Africa have surged by 149% in 2024 compared to 2023, reaching 36,656 visitors.

This increase is attributed to the simplified travel process and enhanced marketing efforts by South African Tourism.

Minister de Lille emphasized the importance of intra-African tourism in driving economic growth and cultural exchange, noting that her visit aligns with South Africa’s broader efforts to strengthen relations across the continent. She also highlighted South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Summit this year as a key milestone in its global influence.

The outreach programme will further facilitate high-level discussions between officials from both countries to enhance tourism relations and bilateral cooperation.