South Africa's Tshwane Seeks Tourism-Led Growth Through Global Platforms, Local Innovation

The City of Tshwane is positioning itself as a key player in South Africa’s tourism industry by leveraging high-profile international forums such as the C20 and G20 to attract global attention. This news was reported by TV BRICS, originally sourced from Independent Online.

The move underscores the city’s broader strategy to stimulate economic growth and job creation through a vibrant tourism sector.

According to local officials, including tourism advocate Sarah Mabotsa, tourism contributed an estimated US\$34 billion to the South African economy in 2024. Tshwane is aligning its efforts with this national priority by highlighting its modern infrastructure, robust hospitality sector, and proven capacity to host international events.

A major milestone in this strategy was Tshwane’s recent co-hosting of the 2025 Urban20 (U20) meetings alongside Johannesburg. The summit, which drew stakeholders from across Africa and beyond, was held under the theme “Harnessing Tourism for Inclusive and Sustainable Cities.”

Discussions emphasized the role of tourism in promoting equitable urban development.

Central to Tshwane’s tourism agenda is the promotion of township tourism. Initiatives like the Friends of Toloane in the Toloane Nature Reserve are being spotlighted as models of community-driven economic inclusion. These projects aim to bring tourism benefits to underserved areas while preserving cultural and natural heritage.

Tourist safety, a key consideration for many travelers, was also a focal point of the U20 dialogue. Tshwane has recently been named the safest city in South Africa—a status bolstered by declining crime rates across nearly all categories. Officials believe this designation enhances the city's appeal as a secure destination for both domestic and international visitors.

By combining strong safety credentials with global outreach and grassroots development, Tshwane is working to establish itself as a leading hub for sustainable and inclusive tourism in South Africa and beyond.