In Bloemfontein, the heart of the Free State province, South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Honourable Patricia de Lille, launched the highly anticipated Summer Season Campaign. Joined by esteemed leaders from both the government and the private tourism sector, the event marked a significant step towards invigorating domestic travel.
Under the banner of “Gimme Summer That Sho’t Left,” this campaign invites South Africans to rediscover their homeland, exploring the diverse experiences and attractions each province has to offer. It’s not just for locals; the initiative also warmly welcomes international visitors eager to experience the rich tapestry of South Africa’s landscapes and cultures.
Minister de Lille emphasized the commitment of the Department of Tourism and South African Tourism to ensure that the benefits of tourism reach every corner of the nation. By choosing to kick off this year’s campaign in the Free State, she aimed to shine a light on less-traveled provinces, showcasing the hidden gems and spectacular attractions that lie within our beautiful Mzansi.
With a plethora of affordable and high-quality travel options available, the Summer Campaign serves as a call to action for travelers to immerse themselves in the stunning variety that Mzansi has to offer. It promises refreshing getaways while igniting the spirit of adventure that resides in every explorer.
“At the heart of our Summer Campaign is the promotion of affordable and unforgettable travel experiences throughout Mzansi,” said Minister de Lille. “We encourage both local and international tourists to embark on a journey across our country, where they can encounter our natural wonders and vibrant cultural heritage, as well as discover both renowned and off-the-beaten-path attractions. Each province is brimming with quality destinations, unique experiences, and delightful surprises waiting to be uncovered in our towns, villages, townships, and charming little dorpies.”
Tourism is a crucial pillar of South Africa’s economy. Recent statistics reveal that over 5.8 million tourists visited the country in the first eight months of 2024, representing a 7% increase from the same timeframe in 2023. Moreover, from January to July 2024, South Africans made 21.5 million trips to explore their own backyard, underscoring the importance of domestic tourism as the foundation of the industry.
“Our various travel offers and campaigns, both locally and abroad, aim to highlight how accessible and affordable it is to travel within South Africa. The ‘Gimme Summer That Sho’t Left’ campaign is designed to inspire a sense of national pride among South Africans, encouraging them to explore and deepen their connection with their country while warmly welcoming visitors whose trips invigorate our economy and create jobs,” Minister de Lille added.
According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), tourism contributed 8.2% to South Africa’s GDP in 2023, a figure expected to rise to 8.8% by the end of 2024 and reach 10.4% by 2030. In the first quarter of 2024 alone, tourism’s direct and indirect impact on the GDP was already at 8.8%.
This vital sector often surpasses contributions from transport, mining, and agriculture, almost matching government contributions to GDP.
The launch event saw the participation of prominent figures such as the Premier of the Free State, Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, and Ketso Makume, MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism in the province, alongside various stakeholders from the tourism industry, including representatives from the Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, as well as Fedhasa.
For those eager to take advantage of special travel offers, visit www.southafrica.net or www.shotleft.co.za. This summer, embark on a Sho’t Left adventure, unwind, and contribute to the flourishing tourism sector in South Africa.
