Celebratory Month of 2025: Embracing Eco-friendly Tourism and Economic Prosperity for All

Tourism Month 2025 Kicks Off in South Africa

September marks the annual celebration of travel, heritage, and homegrown exploration in South Africa, known as Tourism Month. This year's theme is "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation".

The launch of Tourism Month 2025 took place at the Black-owned Sakhumzi Restaurant in Johannesburg, symbolizing township culture. The event was graced by several visionary entrepreneurs, redefining various aspects of the tourism industry.

Zandra Habana, the visionary behind Inkenzo, was one of the featured entrepreneurs. Her women-led travel solutions are redefining destination management, offering unique and empowering travel experiences. Mapholo Ratau, founder of the South African brand Ledikana, was also present. Ledikana focuses on preserving culture through contemporary fashion, showcasing the rich tapestry of South African heritage.

Buhle Magwentshu, founder of Asmara, a South African artisanal coffee micro-roastery, was another entrepreneur featured at the event. Asmara's commitment to quality coffee and ethical sourcing is a testament to the growing base of youth and SMME-led enterprises in the tourism sector.

Tourism is considered a powerful engine for transformation in South Africa. Over 70% of the sector's workforce is women, and the industry is increasingly dominated by emerging, black-owned, and women-owned businesses. This was further emphasized with the introduction of the Balanced Quality Verification (BQV) system. The BQV system is designed to guarantee quality for visitors and open doors for these businesses to access markets and compete fairly. The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa uses the BQV system to ensure world-class standards and support transformation.

As South Africa prepares to host the G20-B20 Summit, the country is using tourism to showcase its capabilities, resilience, and authentic stories. Delegates at the summit will engage in policy discussions and experience South Africa's people, landscapes, culture, and leadership in sustainable tourism.

Across all nine provinces, South Africans are encouraged to explore, reconnect, and contribute to a tourism sector that is economically empowering and environmentally conscious. This is part of an initiative to encourage domestic tourism with discounts of up to 50% on tourism products and experiences in all nine provinces during Sho't Left Travel Week (7-14 September).

National Parks Week (9-15 September) also offers free day access to selected parks for South African ID-holders, providing an opportunity for locals to connect with nature and appreciate the country's natural beauty.

Minister Patricia de Lille stated that Tourism Month is about nation-building, fueling the economy, and connecting South Africans. She invited South Africans to travel during Tourism Month and beyond, emphasizing the importance of local experiences that grow businesses, build pride, and transform communities.

Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu added that tourism can redistribute opportunity, particularly in township homestays and rural craft collectives. This emphasis on community-driven experiences nationwide is evident in the availability of township tours and rural cultural routes.

In conclusion, Tourism Month 2025 is a time for South Africans to celebrate their heritage, explore their country, and support local businesses. It's a month dedicated to sustainable transformation, nation-building, and economic growth.

Celebratory Month of 2025: Embracing Eco-friendly Tourism and Economic Prosperity for All