South African Tourism Minister in Ghana to strengthen tourism relations

The Minister of Tourism of South Africa, Patricia de Lille, is in Ghana for a two-day special outreach programme to strengthen tourism partnerships and promote cultural exchange between the two nations. 

As part of the outreach programme, the South African Tourism Minister will engage her counterpart, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla-Dzifa Gomashie, the South Africa-Ghana Chamber of Commerce, key media and tourism stakeholders, to showcase South Africa as an attractive leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) destination. 

Context

The easing of visa regulations between the two countries in November 2023 has been a progressive step that contributed to unlocking significant tourism potential.

It also marked a new chapter in strengthening tourism and trade, creating a seamless journey for both South Africans and Ghanaians to experience the beauty and diversity Ghana and South Africa have to offer.

This development also opened doors for increased business, leisure and cultural exchange.  

“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,” Ms de Lille said on arrival.

She said Ghana had emerged as a standout performer, recording an exceptional 149 per cent increase in tourist arrivals to South Africa in 2024 when compared to 2023.

“The number of Ghanaian visitors surged to 36,656, largely due to the introduction of a visa waiver in November 2023 coupled with the consistent marketing by South African Tourism, allowing citizens of both countries to travel to each other's country visa-free for up to 90 days within a year,” minister de Lille said.

G20 Summit

The March 26-28 visit also holds added significance as it takes place in a year when South Africa proudly hosts the G20 Summit — a momentous occasion that highlights South Africa’s growing influence on the global stage, and its commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships across the African continent.

“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,” Ms de Lille added.

The outreach programme will also enable senior officials from both countries to engage further on bilateral tourism issues and enhance relations.