South Africa's Tourism Minister announces plans to improve air travel across Africa

Speaking at the opening of Africa's Travel Indaba 2024 in Durban, South African Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille emphasised the urgent need to improve air connectivity in Africa and around the world.

De Lille outlined the importance of tourism, a key economic sector that drives the GDP of South Africa and the continent as a whole. She noted joint efforts with African counterparts to address the continent's travel challenges and tourism development. This is reported by Pretoria News, a partner of TV BRICS.

The Minister noted the strategic partnership, citing the example of the successful agreement with Kenya that facilitated direct flights between Nairobi and major cities in South Africa.

Addressing visa challenges, de Lille noted South Africa's visa waiver for 132 countries and ongoing negotiations with other states to further facilitate travel. She emphasised the importance of a seamless visa process to stimulate tourism growth.

During Africa Month, the official emphasised the importance of balanced collaboration on destination marketing to stimulate industry growth and innovation.

This year's Africa Travel Indaba features 26 African countries, including Guinea, Eritrea and Burkina Faso. De Lille thanked all participants for promoting African tourism and encouraged South Africans to travel and experience the richness of the continent.

Photo: Pretoria News