31-JUL-12·	SA still among top business destinations
	Posted by | tourism
	Business events tourism has been recognized as an area with significant growth potential, and Government has established the first South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB) to further promote growth in the conferencing industry.

16-JUL-12·	More tourists visit SA in the first quarter of 2012
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa saw exceptional growth in tourist arrivals in the first quarter of 2012 which could be ascribed to significant investments in the South African tourism industry in time, energy and resources according to Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk.

25-JUN-12·	Tourism still paramount to SA’s growth
	Posted by | tourism
	Despite the current global financial problems which continue to impact the industry, tourism will continue to play a central role in the country’s economy, Tourism Deputy Minister Tokozile Xasa says.

14-MAY-12·	Van Schalkwyk pushes for sustainable tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa needs to invest much more seriously in energy-efficiency products, green building design, the roll-out of renewable energy technologies and consumer education if it wishes to create a sustainable tourism sector.

07-MAY-12·	Smartphone app boosts interest in SA
	Posted by | tourism
	The Smartphone app 'South Africa Travel: The Rainbow Nation' which is a complete tourist and business guide to South Africa is rapidly selling thousands of copies and receiving four-star and five-star ratings.

04-MAY-12·	Partnerships key to creating jobs in tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	Up skilling labour and creating jobs in the tourism sector can be greatly enhanced if government works together with the private sector and other industry stakeholders. These were the sentiments of Minister of Tourism Marthinus van Schalkwyk during his Budget Vote speech.

11-APR-12·	Cederberg trek route to create employment
	Posted by | tourism
	The Department of Tourism’s National Rural Strategy aims to create community-driven tours for international and domestic tourists. As part of this initiative the Cederberg Donkey Cart Route was created to attract visitors to the popular Cederberg Mountain range.

09-MAR-12·	TOMSA levy open to all
	Posted by | tourism
	Businesses operating within the travel and tourism sector can now earn maximum BEE points through Tourism Marketing Levy South Africa (TOMSA). If you don't know how to capitalize on this offer EconoBee can help you.

01-MAR-12·	SA becoming world’s favourite events destination
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa is set to host over 200 international conferences over the next five years, which is estimated to attract 300 000 delegates and provide an economic boost of more than R1.6 billion.

06-FEB-12·	Govt promotes township tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	Government plans to support local business and raise the profile of township tourism which has been identified as one of the niche markets that require development. This forms part of the bid to create jobs and opportunities for South Africans.

01-FEB-12·	Direct flights to China to boost SA economy
	Posted by | tourism
	Trade between China and SA received a major boost when direct flights to the Asian continent were incorporated into SA's flight schedule. The nonstop flight promises to facilitate both business and leisure travel between the two countries

31-JAN-12·	Tourism sector to boost the economy
	Posted by | tourism
	The National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS) seeks to increase tourism's total direct and indirect contribution to the economy to R499 billion by 2020 said Tourism Deputy Minister Tokozile Xasa.

31-JAN-12·	SA expands foothold in Indian tourism market
	Posted by | tourism
	Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk is currently on a two-day visit to India to promote South Africa as a tourism destination and highlight the potential and importance of India as a source market for tourism to South Africa.

12-JAN-12·	Visits to Limpopo resorts double
	Posted by | tourism
	An estimated 50 000 people are reported to have visited wildlife resorts in Limpopo over the festive season, more than double the number of visitors in 2010. With visitors spending more than R1.6 million, 2011 is said to have been one of the most successful tourist seasons to date.

28-OCT-11·	SA to model Jamaican tourism strategy
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa has committed itself to the development of tourism in rural areas to create sustainable economic markets and the Jamaican Model of Community Tourism offers many guidelines for South Africa to successfully implement its strategy.

04-OCT-11·	Three Countries, Three cities to boost tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	The launch of the Three Countries, Three Cities tour which includes the Mpumalanga, Mozambique and Swaziland regions will be targeted at international tourists to position the region as a world class tourism destination and contribute to employment creation and economic growth.

28-SEP-11·	Tourism linked to job creation
	Posted by | tourism
	Government has committed to supporting the youth by equipping them with business skills geared towards the tourism industry, and young people have been urged to take advantage of the potential job opportunities available in this promising sector.

27-SEP-11·	SA gains popularity as travel hotspot
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa's unique culture and products continue to attract international tourists and according to Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk eight million tourists visited the country last year, solidifying SA's reputation as one of the most preferred tourist destinations.

26-AUG-11·	Answer lies in domestic tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	Government has committed to building a culture of domestic tourism in order to alleviate the pressures on the fragile economy, a sentiment endorsed by Tourism Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyk who says that 'the domestic market has to be one of the country's key focus areas'.

15-AUG-11·	Galileo centre upgrades travel expertise
	Posted by | tourism
	The Academy Training Group opened a Galileo centre at its Kempton Park campus which offers tourism courses to any interested students, training learners on the latest travel and tourism programmes and systems.

20-JUL-11·	Industry bodies unite over tourism agenda
	Posted by | tourism
	An exciting new partnership will allow CathsSeta accredited training providers to offer City & Guilds qualifications, which will ensure that a standardised level of training is delivered to all students within the tourism, hospitality and catering sectors in South Africa.

24-JUN-11·	Job Vacancies at the Department of Tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	Do you fancy working for the South Africa's Department of Tourism? Attached is a list of opportunities to apply for, so if you are in the marketplace for new work, take a look here at the current job vacancies

09-MAY-11·	Gauteng goes virtual at indaba
	Posted by | tourism
	Gauteng shows off its wonder and beauty through a range of film, photography and social media during Durban's Tourism Indaba 2011.

09-MAY-11·	Training and Mentorship key for ETEYA winner Kagiso Legobe
	Posted by | tourism
	ETEYA - the Emerging Tourism Entrepreneur of the Year Award, which has become one of the key features at the Tourism Indaba, honours small tourism businesses around the country. This year the award was won by North West's Kagiso Legobe and his Kay 2ze Gee Tours. Tourism Minister, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, is encouraged by how small businesses are creating employment in the tourism sector.

09-MAY-11·	Playing globally, winning locally - tourism is about people.
	Posted by | tourism
	Opening Indaba 2011 - Africa's biggest travel and tourism show - Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk told delegates that although much emphasis has been placed on tourism being an economic vehicle, it is also about people. Indaba 2011 is being held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre under the banner: "Playing globally, winning locally".

04-MAY-11·	Global tourism leaders must respond to climate change risks
	Posted by | tourism
	Speaking at the at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Africa Pre-summit on Green and Shared Growth in Aviation, Travel and Tourism in Cape Town, Tourism Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyk urged governments to find ways to engage the global tourism industry bodies and private corporations to respond positively to the risks of climate change.

30-MAR-11·	Tourism academy back in action
	Posted by | tourism

12-MAR-11·	European long haul air travel taxes may affect tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk, who is currently in Berlin for the ITB 2011, has warned that arbitrary taxes imposed by certain European countries on travel to long haul destinations could adversely affect travel to these destinations.

09-MAR-11·	Hospitality Youth Initiative - hope for unemployed youth
	Posted by | tourism
	An initiative aimed at training the country’s unemployed youth was unveiled by Deputy Tourism Minister Tokozile Xasa in Bathurst in the Eastern Cape. The Hospitality Youth Initiative (HYI) is aimed at helping 300 unemployed youth from across the country with training to find meaningful employment.

06-MAR-11·	Molewa calls for public effort to curb rhino poaching
	Posted by | tourism
	Edna Molewa, Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs is now calling for more public involvement in the efforts to reduce rhino poaching in the country, this crime continues to increase at an alarming rate, "Our nation and continent’s heritage is under threat from criminals who believe the irresponsible stories being perpetuated that one can get rich on rhino poaching".

17-FEB-11·	Sports and tourism conference to promote South Africa
	Posted by | tourism
	With the 2010 World Cup a thing of the past, South Africa’s tourism players are aiming to promote the country as a world-class host for future large scale, international events. Thebe Exhibitions and Projects Group (TEPG) will host a Sports and Events Tourism Exchange (SETE) conference and exhibition in July at the International Convention Centre in Cape Town.

28-NOV-10·	Tourism Minister urges SA to get on board cruise tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk launching a report on cruise tourism has said that government wants to see more South Africans working on cruise ships and becoming world class operators.

17-NOV-10·	Addressing skills gaps with international exchange programme
	Posted by | tourism
	The Ritz Carlton International Exchange programme will give unemployed graduates the opportunity to gain work experience in the hospitality industry in North America. 110 graduates have already benefited from this programme and another 252 will leave South Africa for experiential learning at the Ritz Carlton Group.

21-OCT-10·	R24m tourism boost for Barberton
	Posted by | tourism
	After the success of the FIFA World Cup, an increased number of international visitors are expected to visit and tour South Africa. Mpumalanga, which is regarded as the world's most valuable geological landscape has - up until now - been quite inaccessible. Now a R24m series of projects will provide a sophisticated, informative, tourist-friendly route through the area. Many South Africans will also be encouraged to explore this unique heritage...

07-SEP-10·	World Cup benefitted Government tourism industry relations
	Posted by | tourism
	Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk assures that government will engage with tourism industry on building capacity, development of a National Tourism Sector Strategy and a new Tourism Bill.

02-SEP-10·	Foreign visitors surge in 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	Foreign visitors to South Africa had risen by more than 350 000 for the first four months of this year as compared to the same period in 2009 - Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk.

10-JUL-10·	SA Brazil Strategic Partnership Agreement includes education and skills development
	Posted by | tourism
	SA and Brazil have also agreed to deepen cooperation in areas such as: trade and industry, science and technology, agriculture and rural development, arts and culture, defence, education and skills development, health, sport and recreation, tourism, water and environmental affairs.

06-JUL-10·	World Cup coverage boosts SA tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	The positive global media coverage South Africa has received during the 2010 World Cup has exceeded all expectations and will benefit the country’s tourism industry long after the tournament ends.

23-MAY-10·	Plans to promote tourism locally
	Posted by | tourism
	Tourism Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyk says government is willing to invest in a partnership with the private sector to develop holiday resorts for modest income earners.

15-MAR-10·	Walk the talk with tourism radio
	Posted by | tourism
	International visitors who will be cruising around the Western Cape during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in rental cars will be able to tune in to Tourism Radio, a station designed to entertain and educate them while en route.

02-DEC-09·	Theta honours trainers with Ukusisa Awards
	Posted by | tourism
	The tourism and hospitality Seta, Theta, is honouring training providers with their second Ukusisa Awards. The awards recognised training providers who have attained accreditation with Theta's quality assurance arm and deliver quality training for the tourism sector.

24-NOV-09·	International tourism course launched
	Posted by | tourism
	A new tourism industry course has been launched that offers students a distinctive combination of knowledge and practical skills. Course Director Riaan Oosthuizen from Entrust Management Academy explains that it reflects the essential skills required in both the tourism and hospitality industries.

19-NOV-09·	New SA Tourism CEO announced
	Posted by | tourism
	Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk has announced the appointment of Thandiwe Sylvia January-Mclean as the new Chief Executive Officer of South African Tourism (SAT). Currently the South African Ambassador to Portugal, January-Mclean has been appointed for a term of three years effective from January 2010.

27-JUL-09·	SA will have adequate accommodation in 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	Rumours over room shortages have led to assurances from the Environmental Affairs and Tourism Department that there will be adequate accommodation during the FIFA World Cup next year.

16-JUL-09·	Tourist slump sees growing retrenchments
	Posted by | tourism
	Even though it’s school holidays, revenues are down at hotels and guest houses, as more families stay at home. Conferences and seminars are also dramatically down and seeing slow bookings or none at all, putting some conference venues and training companies at risk, Andre Snyman writes.

15-JUL-09·	KZN at forefront of SA development boom
	Posted by | tourism
	Kwa-Zulu Natal has the highest export propensity and the second highest level of industrialisation - and with the Dube Tradeport and King Shaka airport fast nearing completion - it is becoming a tourism gateway to South Africa.

19-JUN-09·	KZN to work on attracting foreign visitors
	Posted by | tourism
	KZN is the third most popular destination nationwide for international visitors, but the leading domestic tourism spot, sweeping 32% of the market share, says Premier Zweli Mkhize.

12-JUN-09·	World Cup for African continent, says Motlanthe
	Posted by | tourism
	No longer a "plan B country", South Africa is ready for the 2010 Soccer World Cup, and has been getting ready over the years, says Deputy President Motlanthe.

12-MAY-09·	Jobs beyond 2010 a possibility says GTA
	Posted by | tourism
	"The key for us is to ensure that the jobs created in our industry are carefully thought out to ensure that as many as possible are sustained past (the FIFA Confed Cup and World Cup) in order to bolster our economy and enable our nation," said GTA Board Chairman, Khehla Mthembu, at the South Africa Tourism Indaba recently.

12-MAY-09·	Tourism growth, job creation to be better tracked
	Posted by | tourism
	Besides tracking the number of tourism jobs created and the contribution to the country’s GDP, with the brand new Tourism Satellite Account - which is a measurement tool - you can now tell which activities are most beneficial to a tourist and in effect, to the local economy.

12-MAY-09·	FIFA, LOC laud SA hospitality industry
	Posted by | tourism
	FIFA and the Local Organising Committee have awarded Official Accommodation plaques to the South African hospitality fraternity, in recognition of their support in the run-up to the world football event, which is now almost 400 days away.

12-MAY-09·	2010 takes centre stage at Tourism Indaba
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa's "biggest tourism expo" - the Tourism Indaba - opened to a glittering ceremony at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre despite the rain in Durban over the weekend. The Indaba will feature 1 800 exhibitors and 400 local and international media representatives.

05-MAY-09·	Emerging tourism entrepreneur to win big
	Posted by | tourism
	A R100 000 cash prize is up for grabs at the Travel and Tourism Expo in Durban, awarded to emerging entrepreneurs country-wide for their innovative and sustainable business plans.

29-APR-09·	Special “event visa” to be launched
	Posted by | tourism
	An "events visa" will be issued free of charge to visitors during the FIFA Confederations Cup and World Cup soccer tournaments, to improve entry and exit processes through the country's borders and aid tourism.

20-APR-09·	IPL to boost SA’s economy, educational development
	Posted by | tourism
	"No disagreement or rivalry is permanent," said President Kgalema Motlanthe ahead of the Indian Premier League, hosted by South Africa, in which cricketers that have recently been playing as rivals will now be teammates.

14-APR-09·	SA tour guides gear up ahead of 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	Tour guides in Gauteng celebrated the International Tour Guide Day, mindful of their role in attracting tourists and ensuring a good stay ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

31-MAR-09·	Travel and tourism guide training gears up prior to 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa's resources will be under world scrutiny when 2010 rolls around, but what is government doing to train guides? According to spokesperson, Solange Rosa, a number of higher education institutions are preparing for the challenge.

20-MAR-09·	Mandela’s house receives a R9mil facelift
	Posted by | tourism
	Nelson Mandela's former home has received a facelift and been converted into a National Heritage Site as a symbol of South Africa's "desire for freedom and equality" over a force darkness.

16-MAR-09·	Tourism 8.2% of GDP & set to see exponential growth
	Posted by | tourism
	The Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA) has partnered up with Wits University to assist tour operators across the province, through lectures designed to improve the skills and knowledge of tour guides, supporting responsible and sustainable South African tourism.

04-MAR-09·	Motlanthe supports low carbon economy
	Posted by | tourism
	President Kgalema Motlanthe has expressed hope that the National Climate Change Conference will through its deliberations draft a national framework which will lead South Africa in becoming a low carbon economy.

17-DEC-08·	Thousands of tourists expected to visit the Mother City
	Posted by | tourism
	A total of more than a hundred thousand tourists are expected to throng to the centre of the Mother City as the festive season is celebrated in a dozen major, crowd-attracting events.

03-DEC-08·	Cape Town wins prestigious ‘Best World City Award’
	Posted by | tourism
	South African Tourism (SAT) announced that South Africa’s mother-city, Cape Town, has won the Telegraph Travel Award 2008, Best World City Award. Besides this prestigious award for one of the country’s cities best known for Table Mountain, great wines and the garden route, South Africa, also secured a place in the top three Best non-European Country category.

27-NOV-08·	2010 opens BPO, tourism opportunities for Gauteng
	Posted by | tourism
	The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), infrastructure and tourism are some of the opportunities presented by the 2010 FIFA World Cup. “In terms of business opportunities brought about by the 2010 FIFA World Cup, South African entrepreneurs can invest in infrastructure, particularly the maintenance of newly built structures, tourism and the BPO industry,” said Gauteng MEC for Finance and Economic Affairs, Mandla Nkomfe.

24-NOV-08·	Kids should be allowed to study there passion
	Posted by | tourism
	I just read the message about the shortage of accountants in SA and China. The question you pose is actually an extremely tough one to answer. In my experience if I, or my parents, had the money when I left school, i would have loved to study anything in Sports, but a tight budget and 3 children to support in studies after school put a dampener on that idea.

05-NOV-08·	Govt to intervene in SA Tourism resignation from MATCH
	Posted by | tourism
	Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism Marthinus van Schalkwyk is to facilitate talks between South African Tourism (SAT) and FIFA appointed accommodation company MATCH. SAT Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Moeketsi Mosola announced that SAT was pulling out of the MATCH Advisory Board citing bullying tactics against local accommodation establishments by MATCH.

03-NOV-08·	Service excellence critical to sustainable tourism growth
	Posted by | tourism
	The report titled Leadership in Customer Service that was released in 2007, ranked South Africa’s service delivery standards as the lowest in the world. South Africa’s lack of customer service did not relate to business processes, but to soft skills such as business etiquette, customer care, and service attitude, reported the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT).

03-NOV-08·	Global economic climate affecting tourism industry
	Posted by | tourism
	The turmoil on international markets and the rising awareness of climate change is having an effect on the tourism industry, says Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk. Address the 7th National Tourism Conference, the minister explained that the impending economic recession was expected to change spending patterns and affect the industry going forward.

03-NOV-08·	SA Tourism resigns from MATCH Advisory Board
	Posted by | tourism
	South African Tourism has pulled out as a member of the advisory board of the FIFA-appointed hospitality company MATCH. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of South African Tourism, Moeketsi Mosola, on Monday announced SAT’s resignation explaining that this was due to the unfavourable trading terms placed on local accommodation establishments.

31-OCT-08·	SA will weather the economic storm - DG
	Posted by | tourism
	He was speaking at the 2nd Annual South African Trade and Investment Conference and Exhibition which aims to promote the country’s image abroad and market its growing economy to the rest of the world. He said the financial meltdown that had occurred in the financial markets had led to a fundamental change in the landscape.

23-OCT-08·	Conference to promote tourism in SADC region
	Posted by | tourism
	Speaking at the Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs) Investment Conference, Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk said the conference would aim to find ways in which the SADC countries could work together to build a pipeline of bankable projects while increasing promotion efforts.

22-OCT-08·	Polokwane airport to attract tourists, grow economy
	Posted by | tourism
	The new state-of-the art Polokwane International Airport is set to attract more foreign tourists and contribute to growing the province’s economy during and well beyond the 2010 FIFA World Cup. As a host city, Polokwane will benefit tremendously from the new international terminal when thousands of soccer fans from around the world stream into the province.

20-OCT-08·	SA to showcase trade, investment advantages
	Posted by | tourism
	The South African International Trade and Investment Conference and Exhibition 2008 will bring together local and foreign business people as it showcases the advantages of doing business on the southern tip of Africa. The Department of Trade and Industry, along with the country's provincial investment promotion agencies, are hosting the event at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on 30 and 31 October, reports SouthAfrica.info.

15-OCT-08·	Chinese to promote PE as tourism desination
	Posted by | tourism
	A Chinese destination marketing authority is currently in Port Elizabeth to shoot a promotional documentary which will be aired on a Chinese television channel. The promotional video, which will showcase some of the tourist attractions in the area, aims to encourage Chinese tourists to visit the city.

01-OCT-08·	Umzimkhulu to get multi-million Rand tourism project
	Posted by | tourism
	A massive multi-million Rand tourism project, which consists of shops and a restaurant among others, is set to promote the Umzimkhulu area as a tourist destination. KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Weziwe Thusi, is expected to visit the area of Umzimkhulu on the border of KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape to hand over the tourism project to the community.

01-OCT-08·	Cape Town wins prestigious award for sustainability
	Posted by | tourism
	South African Tourism (SAT) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Moeketsi Mosola congratulated Cape Town on being voted one of ten cities in the world that are most likely to become a global sustainability centre by 2020. “This entrenches Cape Town’s credentials as a beautiful, eco-friendly destination committed to solid planning and construction principles in both its lifestyle and business sectors,” Mr Mosola said.

01-OCT-08·	Durban conference to discuss minimising waste
	Posted by | tourism
	Deputy Minister of Environment and Tourism Affairs Rejoice Mabudafhasi is expected to open a conference discussing minimising waste and its effects on society.The Wastecon 2008 conference is to be attended by more than 600 delegates from South Africa and abroad at the Chief Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

30-SEP-08·	Earn while you learn - and see the world
	Posted by | tourism
	The Youth Discovery Programme assists young people in gaining experience in the tourism and hospitality sector with a range of internship options. Hospitality graduates and students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of 12-month hospitality and culinary training programmes while gaining certification from US authorities.

23-SEP-08·	SAB invests R1.9m in tourism entrepreneurs
	Posted by | tourism
	The annual Emerging Tourism Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (ETEYA) will be substantially boosted this year with the joining of South African Breweries (SAB). the company will be injecting R1.9 million into training and building capacity for emerging tourism entrepreneurs through the awards.

17-SEP-08·	Govt to create 50 000 employment opportunities
	Posted by | tourism
	Government hopes to have created 50 000 job opportunities in the Eastern Cape by the end of 2008 through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

17-SEP-08·	Illegal Tourist Guides hamper delivery of quality services
	Posted by | tourism
	The pilot project intends to curb illegal tourist guiding by unregistered guides and will focus on Gauteng in the pilot phase. The project focuses on increasing registration through positive means such as education and site inspections.

17-SEP-08·	Govt to lure investors in conservation ahead of 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) is looking to use the 2010 FIFA World Cup to attract investors for the development of the Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs).

15-SEP-08·	Tourists urged to use registered tour guides
	Posted by | tourism
	The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism has called on tourists visiting South Africa to use the services of registered tour guides only. A national pilot project aimed at curbing illegal tour guides in South Africa has been launched. It will focus on increasing the registration, training and site inspections on businesses which take tourists on guided tours throughout the country.

07-SEP-08·	SA to have 10million tourists by 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa’s goal of having 10 million international tourists visiting the country by 2010 is well within reach, says Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk. Speaking at the launch of Tourism Month, the minister reiterated his confidence in achieving the 10 million tourist target, adding it could even possibly be achieved in 2009.

01-SEP-08·	Ekurhuleni launches 2010 opportunities booklet
	Posted by | tourism
	The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality announced that it has laid the foundation for a booklet detailing opportunities for local entrepreneurs to benefit from the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

26-AUG-08·	North West municipalities to exploit 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	Municipalities in the North West will fully exploit the 2009 and 2010 football spectacles and provide support to nearby host cities, Premier Edna Molewa has told President Thabo Mbeki.

25-AUG-08·	Free expert hands-on help for SMMEs
	Posted by | tourism
	A Dutch organisation is offering to help Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa, by providing the free services of retired managers willing to transfer their knowledge and experience to local entrepreneurs.

22-AUG-08·	World Cup to boost SA tourism industry
	Posted by | tourism
	South African tourism and leisure sectors are set to benefit greatly from the country’s hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, said Deputy Minister of Finance Jabu Moleketi.

30-JUL-08·	Slowing global economy impacts on tourism industry
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa’s tourism industry is feeling the pinch following rising fuel prices, changes in environmental policies and the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figure falling to below 4 percent this year. According to economist Dr Iraj Abedian, concerns over carbon emissions, or companies’ efforts to become more environmentally conscious, have become a real concern and is affecting the tourism industry worldwide.

29-JUL-08·	Progressive climate change strategy announced for SA
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa is making moves to become a low-carbon economy, says Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism Marthinus van Schalkwyk

28-JUL-08·	Nelson Mandela Bay markets itself ahead of 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	Then Nelson Mandela Bay is using the United Kingdom’s Sky Digital channel to position itself as the South African destination of choice for British visitors during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

22-JUL-08·	Tourism company on the search for Joburg’s Best
	Posted by | tourism
	The Johannesburg Tourism Company has launched a set of awards aimed at seeking out the best that the city has to offer visitors and locals alike. The city's finest will be recognised through the freshly minted Joburg's Best Awards, which will be handed out in December.

22-JUL-08·	Workshops to empower Ekurhuleni entrepreneurs
	Posted by | tourism
	In preparation for the thousands of international tourists heading to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the Ekurhuleni Municipality is hosting a series of tourism workshops to assist emerging entrepreneurs, starting at the end of July.

22-JUL-08·	Kruger Park 'stands to be devastated by climate change'
	Posted by | tourism
	Up to two-thirds of the animal species in the Kruger National Park could become extinct if global temperatures increase at the current rate. This warning came from the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk at the opening of a conference on climate change at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens.

21-JUL-08·	Tourism Seta to train 28 000 workers
	Posted by | tourism
	At least 28 000 tourism industry employees are to benefit from a new tourism Seta Abet programme, which is part of plans to boost the country's skills base particularly among the black youth and women. Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka launched the programme and hailed its role in addressing the skills shortage and the high level of unemployment.

10-JUL-08·	South Africans heed call for volunteers
	Posted by | tourism
	LOC Chairperson Dr Irvin Khoza reported recently that since the start of the recruitment drive on 1 July, they have been inundated with calls from South Africans wanting to become volunteers.

04-JUL-08·	SA’s manufacturing, tourism sectors incentivised
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa’s manufacturing and tourism sectors can now apply for investment support in the form of financial grants from the Department of Trade and Industry’s (dti) Enterprise Investment Programme. Minister of Trade and Industry Mandisi Mpahlwa said: “We will be making these sectors more attractive to people to invest in.

13-JUN-08·	Centre to help coordination at OR Tambo Airport
	Posted by | tourism
	Arriving and departing from OR Tambo International Airport should become an easier experience for travellers when the Airport Management Centre is launched in August. OR Tambo International Airport General Manager Chris Hlekane said all airline stakeholders will in future come together at the centre to discuss operational matters within the airport so that decisions can be made timeously.

09-JUN-08·	Local tourism industry wins some and loses some
	Posted by | tourism
	An increase of yet another 50 cents per litre of unleaded petrol has affected industries across South Africa. Tourism, which accounted for 8,3% of the gross domestic product (GDP) in 2007 and which continues to be recognised by the government as one of South Africa's key growth areas, is faced with the challenge of increased fuel and food prices.

09-JUN-08·	South Africa, Malawi to discuss bilateral trade
	Posted by | tourism
	Deputy Foreign Minister Aziz Pahad will attend a two-day session of the South Africa/Malawi Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) this week to strengthen bilateral programmes of cooperation with Malawi.

09-JUN-08·	SA, Spain strengthen economic, bilateral ties
	Posted by | tourism
	Foreign Minister Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma has concluded economic bilateral discussions with her Spanish Counterpart, Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos in Madrid.

09-JUN-08·	Govt to step up fight against Rhino horn poaching
	Posted by | tourism
	As trading in illegal rhino horns is on the increase in South Africa, Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk believes government needs to stringently enforce legislation.

06-JUN-08·	KZN secures R19 billion tourism development
	Posted by | tourism
	The KwaZulu-Natal North Coast will become home to a US$2.5 billion (R19 billion) tourism development that will create up to 16 000 jobs. Briefing the media, KZN Premier Sibusiso Ndebele said an agreement has been signed between the Provincial Government and Ruwaad, a Dubai-based tourism investment and development company.

05-JUN-08·	Travel businesses help learners fly!
	Posted by | tourism
	“We wish to thank the participating Host Employers who have embraced this skills development initiative” says Don Leffler. “The experience which Learners receive will be most valuable for their future careers” says Don “and will contribute to meeting the demand for specific skills identified as scarce in the travel sector”.

03-JUN-08·	Equip yourself for dynamic jobs
	Posted by | tourism
	About 65 women from various industries across South Africa gathered for dinner with Khanyi Dhlomo, founding editor of the high-end magazine Destiny, as part of the Conscious Career Strategies for Women workshop. This new and unique programme specially designed for women, by women is presented by USB Executive Development Ltd (USB-ED).

27-MAY-08·	Fasset participates in the ‘Invite a Person with a Disability to Work’ campaign
	Posted by | tourism
	“Fasset applauds the Umsobomvu Youth Fund for initiating the ‘Invite a Person with a Disability to Work’ campaign. We were delighted to host three participants for a period of two days. The experience was enriching. We hope that the campaign raises awareness around just how much value people with disabilities can add to the workplace,” says Fasset CEO, Cheryl James.

19-MAY-08·	International Investment Council boost small tourism businesses
	Posted by | tourism
	The small tourism and hospitality businesses in the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal have boomed, as delegates attending the three-day International Investment Council (IIC) meeting converged in the area.

14-MAY-08·	Tourism Indaba is a resounding success
	Posted by | tourism
	According to statistics on Tourism Indaba 2008, Africa's greatest tourism exhibition has attracted a total sum of 13 222 participants, up 539 people on last years 12 683 participants.

13-MAY-08·	Entries to Tourism's Welcome Awards up 156%
	Posted by | tourism
	Entries to South African Tourism's (SAT) Welcome Awards 2008, which celebrates service excellence in the industry, has recorded an impressive 156 percent increase from 2007, says SAT.

12-MAY-08·	Feature: SA on track to receive 10 million foreign visitors by 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	With nine million foreign visitors coming to South Africa in 2007, South Africa can attain the government’s goal of having 10 million tourists in the country ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, writes Michael Appel.

12-MAY-08·	Southern Africa unveils single tourism brand
	Posted by | tourism
	The 2010 Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs) brand has been unveiled by nine Southern African countries at the Tourism Indaba 2008 in a bid to encourage tourism in these countries.

12-MAY-08·	Zulu Kingdom expands borders of tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa’s tourism industry is not only boosting the country’s economy, but individual provinces are greatly benefiting from it too, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Arts, Culture and Tourism Weziwe Thusi.

12-MAY-08·	The World Cup is a platform for legacy building
	Posted by | tourism
	The FIFA 2010 World Cup will not only be a momentous international sporting event for South Africa, but it will also a serve as a platform upon which legacies can be built to support development long after the final whistles been blown.

12-MAY-08·	Durban comes alive for Tourism Indaba 2008
	Posted by | tourism
	The 2008 Tourism Indaba has kicked off in Durban, attracting hundreds of local and international exhibitors and media to the province. South African Tourism has this year attracted about 14 percent more visitors to the show as compared to last year, with the overall number of registered visitors at 3 777.

05-MAY-08·	Cape to spend R40m on attracting good teachers
	Posted by | tourism
	The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has allocated more than R40 million extra for rural schools who struggle to find qualified and competent teachers. Speaking at the meeting of the Provincial Legislature, Western Cape Education MEC Cameron Dugmore said the additional R40 million is expected to attract qualified and competent staff particularly in subjects such as mathematics, science and life orientation.

02-MAY-08·	KZN budgets R600 000 for tourism bursaries
	Posted by | tourism
	Delivering his department’s Budget Speech, MEC for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Weziwe Thusi said this year the department would be awarding 50 students with bursaries who are pursuing tourism studies at higher education institutions.

25-APR-08·	Botswana’s education system – good example to Africa
	Posted by | tourism
	Botswana has set a good example to other African countries for investing more in education, says North West MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Darkie Africa.

23-APR-08·	Over R40m injection for WC rural schools
	Posted by | tourism
	The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has allocated more than R40-million extra for rural schools who struggle to find qualified and competent teachers with the aim to attract such staff in schools.

23-APR-08·	Cape releases land to encourage economic growth
	Posted by | tourism
	In a statement released by the city, it is expected that the development of those properties will create 1 400 jobs at a total investment cost of about R180 million over the next two years.

22-APR-08·	WC education budget prioritise poorest schools
	Posted by | tourism
	The increased allocation in the education budget will primarily be used to provide the poorest schools with libraries, science labs, halls and extra classes, according to the Western Cape Education Department.

17-APR-08·	New tourism partnership opens door to local travel
	Posted by | tourism
	Latching on to the success of SAT’s Sho’t Left campaign - encouraging South Africans to travel within their own country – Southern Sun launched its SunBreaks campaign in April 2008.

12-APR-08·	Female entrepreneurs get R95 000 boost
	Posted by | tourism
	Three young female entrepreneurs in the hospitality and tourism industries have received a cash injection from the South African Breweries (SAB) Ltd totalling R95 000. This through a pilot initiative called the Women in Business which was recently unveiled by the company.

02-APR-08·	SA, Australia sign protocol to amend tax treaty
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa has further strengthened bilateral relations with Australia by signing the protocol amending the tax treaty between the two countries.

01-APR-08·	Cape Town tourism industry maintains first-class standards
	Posted by | tourism
	Tourism in the Cape is a rich experience and is a huge contributor to the country's overall economic growth. As visitors from many European countries will know, it's with warm hospitality that they are greeted in South Africa.

27-MAR-08·	SADC considers single visa for member states
	Posted by | tourism
	Members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have signed a deal to speed up the process of establishing a single visa system, or Univisa, for travelers in the SADC region. Spokesperson for South Africa's Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Moses Rannditsheni, said a Univisa would ease the movement of travelers within southern Africa.

27-MAR-08·	SA attracts 1.5 million foreign travellers
	Posted by | tourism
	Over 1.5 million foreigners travelled to South Africa in January 2008 reported Statistics South Africa (Stats SA). The January 2008 data collected by the Department of Home Affairs’ immigration officers at the ports of entry into South Africa show that a total of 2 316 283 travellers (arrivals and departures) passed through the ports of entry.

17-MAR-08·	SA not able to use its material wealth to undo past damages
	Posted by | tourism
	According to Ehrenreich, who represented labour at the debate, South Africa has not been able to use its material wealth to undo the damages of the past. Big business deals between multi-national organisations don’t help to solve social problems.

06-MAR-08·	SA tourism continues to break barriers
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa’s remarkable tourism growth continues as arrivals reached the 9 million mark for the first time in the country’s history.

06-MAR-08·	Western Cape budgets R9bln for education
	Posted by | tourism
	The Western Cape Education department has provisionally budgeted R9 billion for education to ensure quality outcomes throughout the system.

28-FEB-08·	Sarkozy’s visit to yield SA-France agreements
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa is looking forward to signing a number of bilateral agreements with France during a state visit by French President Nicolas Sarkozy this week.

27-FEB-08·	Foreign visitors increased last year
	Posted by | tourism
	The overall foreign visitors to South Africa have increased by 8.6 percent between January and November 2007,says Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk.

27-FEB-08·	Africa’s international arrivals up 44 million
	Posted by | tourism
	International arrivals to African totalled 846 million in 2006, representing an additional 44 million arrivals over the preceding year with the same growth imminent for 2007

18-FEB-08·	Tourism sector rewards service excellence
	Posted by | tourism
	In the run up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, South African Tourism’s (SAT’s) annual Welcome Awards 2008 will showcase service excellence in the industry

13-FEB-08·	Lindiwe Mahlangu is new CEO of Joburg Tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	The Johannesburg Tourism Company (JTC) has announced that Lindiwe Mahlangu has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of JTC as of 1 March 2008

13-FEB-08·	Chefs Academy unlocks international opportunities
	Posted by | tourism
	The Compass Group Chef Academy has guaranteed top achieving learners an opportunity to work abroad, for the Compass group, which operates in 64 countries around the world

12-FEB-08·	Tourism sector rewards service excellence
	Posted by | tourism
	In the run up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, South African Tourism's (SAT's) annual Welcome Awards 2008 will showcase service excellence in the industry

31-JAN-08·	North West students awarded 52 bursaries
	Posted by | tourism
	Delighted North West students were awarded 52 bursaries by Premier Edna Molewa to further their studies at tertiary institutions of their choice across the country

29-JAN-08·	Investors commit R1b to Durban CBD upgrade
	Posted by | tourism
	The investments will go towards preventing the decay of Durban’s inner city and contributing to the restoration of the city's business and residential areas, thus changing the face of Durban’s Central Business District

28-JAN-08·	Tourism plan to outline scarce skills needed
	Posted by | tourism
	A Tourism Skills Sector Plan for 2008/09 is to increase South Africa's skills base by outlining the scarce skills required in the tourism industry

28-JAN-08·	Power outages an “opportunity” to use enviro practices
	Posted by | tourism
	Power outages being experienced across the City of Cape Town represent an opportunity to build an international reputation for environmental best practice.

24-JAN-08·	Skills programmes to meet the needs of 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	2010 is looming and the focus is on South Africa’s ability to produce skilled individuals to ensure a World Cup success. To meet this demand the Tourism, Hospitality & Sport Business School (THSBS) has launched specialised skills training to meet the demands for the Soccer World Cup 2010.

17-JAN-08·	Kenya’s tourism sector to lose $61.2m
	Posted by | tourism
	The tourism sector in Kenya stands to lose about $61.2 million this month if the current political crisis is not resolved fast

17-JAN-08·	Business, trade tops SA, Ireland discussions
	Posted by | tourism
	One of the main purposes of the Irish trade mission to South Africa was to continue strengthening relationships in business and trade, says Irish Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Employment Michael Martin

08-JAN-08·	SA, China celebrate ten years of relations
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa and China, who are celebrating ten years of diplomatic relations, have pledged to further strengthen their relations through the establishment of a strategic dialogue mechanism

08-JAN-08·	SA, China to discuss economic, trade relations
	Posted by | tourism
	Economic, trade and political matters between South Africa and China are to be discussed between Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma and her Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi

10-DEC-07·	“Invest in SA” advert goes global
	Posted by | tourism
	A television advert inviting global business people to invest in South Africa is currently being aired on the world-wide television networks, including CNN.

04-DEC-07·	Distance learning, via Lyceum College, is a good option
	Posted by | tourism
	The national skills gap is a common news headline ahead of 2010 with areas such as management, metro police, construction, engineering, tourism and the creative arts all high on priority lists. Distance learning from Lyceum College can help.

30-NOV-07·	Innovation central to Africa’s Renaissance
	Posted by | tourism
	Technology and innovation is imperative to the success of initiatives aimed at reconstruction and development within Africa. Socio-economic programs, such as the state-backed New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD), have some degree of dependence on connectivity and infrastructure.

30-NOV-07·	New Programme Launched for Developing Management Skills in the Events Industry.
	Posted by | tourism
	The first programme of its kind to run at a local business school, it will play a role in building capacity so that South Africa can host 2010 FIFA World Cup events with aplomb and also fully capitalise on event hosting opportunities post-2010.

27-NOV-07·	Hunting sector vital for conservation, tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	“Game farming and hunting contributes significantly to conservation, tourism development, job creation and sustainable development in rural areas, it is integrated with various sectors of the economy

27-NOV-07·	LOC secures 28 000 rooms for 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	Government and the Local Organising Committee have contracted at least 28 000 rooms so far, to accommodate football fans expected to flock to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

27-NOV-07·	Tour operators get 2010 boost
	Posted by | tourism
	Qualified and experienced tour operators around the world have been given an opportunity to benefit from the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa

23-NOV-07·	Aviation important for economic growth
	Posted by | tourism
	Aviation plays a crucial role in the wider economic development of society, within Africa and between Africa and other continents, says Transport Minister Jeff Radebe.

20-NOV-07·	Knowledge, empowerment in the spotlight
	Posted by | tourism
	Knowledge and empowerment are in the spotlight during the annual Knowledge Week of the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA). There are three key areas of focus this year, namely

15-NOV-07·	Tips not part of the wage for hospitality workers
	Posted by | tourism
	The Sectoral Determination for the tourism and hospitality sector has clarified many of the issues around employment of workers in this sector. As the sector makes great use of casual and part-time workers it does have specific challenges. And how exactly do you treat remuneration in the form of tips? We review a presentation by Michael Bagraim on the topic.

12-NOV-07·	Government says skills acquisition plan is working
	Posted by | tourism
	Government’s partnership with the private sector has seen thousands of unemployed graduates undergoing training programmes in various multi-national corporations abroad and in South African companies

09-NOV-07·	Skills development will empower communities
	Posted by | tourism
	Previously disadvantaged groups will be empowered if government helps to develop local enterprises, says North West MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Darkie Africa

09-NOV-07·	Cleaners get bonus after winning award
	Posted by | tourism
	Christmas has come early for 125 street cleaners in Tzaneen, Limpopo who will be getting a share of R40 000 after their municipality won the provincial leg of the country’s cleanest town competition.

08-NOV-07·	Intsimbi programme to boost productive capacity
	Posted by | tourism
	Government is advancing with the Intsimbi (“iron”) Programme to assist key industries with re-tooling. The industries concerned are those producing much-needed capital goods for South Africa's massive infrastructure programme.

06-NOV-07·	FIFA chooses 2009 – 2014 hospitality provider
	Posted by | tourism
	The world football governing body FIFA announced MATCH Hospitality AG, as its hospitality rights holder for the 2009 – 2014 period

05-NOV-07·	KwaZulu-Natal hosts 2nd 2010 Indaba
	Posted by | tourism
	KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government will host its 2nd 2010 Indaba at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) in Durban.

01-NOV-07·	South African businesses support another triumph on British soil
	Posted by | tourism
	For the first time, South Africa is to showcase its products and services in a major trade exhibition to be held in London in March 2008. Seen as the opportunity to secure foreign investment in Southern Africa, the exhibition promises to be a `must' for a multitude of businesses from the region.

01-NOV-07·	Cape Town tourism gears up for 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	In a bid to position and market itself as a world-class business tourism destination, the City of Cape Town has secured ten conferences and conventions to be held during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

01-NOV-07·	Tourism sector to recognise service excellence
	Posted by | tourism
	In a bid to find South Africa’s shining examples of businesses and to reward them for raising the standard of customer service, nominations for this year’s Welcome Awards were opened in Johannesburg .

31-OCT-07·	SA beaches awarded for their excellence
	Posted by | tourism
	More than 20 South African beaches have been awarded international Blue Flag status for excelling in safety, amenities, cleanliness and environmental standards. The stakeholders who manage the beaches were honoured at the Blue Flags annual ceremony organised by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism in Port Elizabeth

30-OCT-07·	SA tourism shows huge growth potential
	Posted by | tourism
	The South African tourism industry which currently contributes R95 billion to the country’s Gross Domestic Product, is showing more potential for growth having grown six percent in the early in the last seven years. This is according to experts speaking on investment in tourism in the country at the Trade and Investment South Africa Conference which is currently underway in Durban’s International Convention Centre.

30-OCT-07·	Aviation routes must be utilised better
	Posted by | tourism
	Half of South Africa’s air travel routes are currently underutilised by air carriers the Minister of Transport Jeff Radebe, has said in an appeal to aviation stakeholders to expand and better exploit routes.

30-OCT-07·	SA gets tourism board game
	Posted by | tourism
	The United Kingdom’s based RTL Games is set to launch the board game "Destination South Africa", based on the award-winning taxi game "Destination London" that has been "giving Monopoly a run for its money".

30-OCT-07·	Aviation sector vital for tourism growth
	Posted by | tourism
	Expanding and optimally utilising air travel routes has been identified as vital to the expansion of the already buoyant tourism industry in South Africa.

24-OCT-07·	ICT key for economic growth, development
	Posted by | tourism
	The Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector is an important contributor to the growth and development of the country’s economy, says Public Enterprises Minister Alec Erwin.

22-OCT-07·	Deat project in full swing
	Posted by | tourism
	In February 2007, Dionysus began training the first group of Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) learners at Inanda on ABET. Since then we have rolled out ABET at Phongola, Oribi on the KZN South Coast and Dundee, as well as Business skills at Inanda near Durban and Emakhosini on the KZN North Coast near Ulundi.

22-OCT-07·	Mpuma to establish tourism safety strategy
	Posted by | tourism
	Mpumalanga with its world class tourism hubs such as the historical gold mining town of Pilgrim's Rest, is crafting a safety strategy for the tourism industry. "The state of the province is safe, however, and we will work hard to make it even safer for everyone," assured MEC for economic development and planning, Craig Padayachee.

22-OCT-07·	Cape Town plans to be ideal cruise destination
	Posted by | tourism
	The City of Cape Town is to be re-vamped as one of the best passenger-liner destinations worldwide. "The time could be ripe to re-establish Cape Town as one of the great passenger liner destinations of the world by promoting itself and the Southern African region as a base for destination cruises,” said Councillor Simon Grindrod, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic, Social Development and Tourism.

11-OCT-07·	E-Cape tourism award for female hotelier
	Posted by | tourism
	The female owner of an Eastern Cape Bed and Breakfast (B&B) establishment has scooped first prize for the strides she has made in the tourism sector. Itumeleng Shupuyang, affectionately known as Tumie, beat 14 other nominees to win the top prize in the Women in Tourism Awards, by getting the most votes.

10-OCT-07·	Mappp Seta not the only one in trouble
	Posted by | tourism
	The decision to place the media Seta, Mappp, under administration is not the only action that the Minister of Labour is considering to deal with Setas that aren't performing up to the required standard. Another six Setas are also in his sights.

02-OCT-07·	2010 will showcase SA’s hospitality sector
	Posted by | tourism
	The 2010 FIFA World Cup will present the South African hospitality industry with the greatest opportunity to showcase developments in the industry. This is according to a veteran of the sector, David Clifton, who is the managing director of Interval International for Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia.

01-OCT-07·	Radebe opens R535m international tier at OR Int. airport
	Posted by | tourism
	Transport Minister Jeff Radebe has officially unveiled a R535 million extension to the international tier at South Africa’s busiest airport that will help deal with the growing air traffic flow, particularly ahead of the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup.

01-OCT-07·	SA concerned over US lack of climate change policy
	Posted by | tourism
	Following suit at the most recent G8 Summit in Germany, the United States has again not fully embraced the principles and leadership required for a global solution to climate change. This sentiment was expressed by Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism Marthinus Van Schalkwyk following the conclusion of the Major Economies Meeting on Energy Summit and Climate Change held in Washington DC.

01-OCT-07·	Finalists announced in Emerging Tourism Entrepreneur awards
	Posted by | tourism
	South African Tourism has announced the eight finalists in the Emerging Tourism Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (ETEYA) at the World Tourism Day celebrations in Port Elizabeth.

26-SEP-07·	Zambia, SA to promote tourism ahead of 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	The Zambian government has entered into talks with South Africa’s Tourism Ministry to look at how best the two countries can promote tourism ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. They will be designing tourism packages to market the two countries when South Africa hosts the World Cup in 2010.

24-SEP-07·	SA hospitality industry handicapped by inaccessibility
	Posted by | tourism
	People with disabilities are still hardly considered when it comes to employment or accessibility within the hospitality industry, despite the legal requirements stipulated by the Equality Act and increasing demand by the general public and overseas tourists.

23-SEP-07·	Sheryl Ozinsky shakes up tourism publications
	Posted by | tourism
	The former CEO of Cape Town Tourism and Cape Town Routes Unlimited Sheryl Ozinsky has teamed up with MediaWeb Publishing and A&C Maps to create an annual tourism publication to promote South Africa's three major cities in the run-up to 2010 and beyond.

18-SEP-07·	Getting started in a career in tourism management
	Posted by | tourism
	If you have a love of travelling, passion for people and are a great ambassador for SA, tourism management is a worthwhile career option for you. So if you are interested in a career in tourism, how do you get involved in this hugely popular industry?

17-MAY-07·	Breakdown of the hospitality sector wages
	Posted by | tourism
	Following this week's announcement by Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana about the minimum wages for the hospitality industry workers, the Department of Labour wishes to point out that the information as reflected in the Cape Times is absolutely incorrect. The sectoral determination sets only two levels of wages.

15-MAY-07·	Minimum wages introduced for hospitality sector
	Posted by | tourism
	In what will be good news for long-suffering waiters and other workers in South Africa's hospitality sector, Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana has announced a minimum wage that would apply across the industry. The sector – which includes tourism – is said to be the fourth-largest generator of the country's gross domestic product but has little union membership.

06-MAY-07·	Skills to be highlighted at Tourism Indaba
	Posted by | tourism
	Skills development in the tourism sector is to take center stage at this year’s Tourism Indaba to be held at the Durban International Convention Centre. The four day indaba is an annual premier event on the tourism calendar, which provides an opportunity for tourism stakeholders to converge and showcase their products and services.

12-APR-07·	UN teams up with FIFA ahead of 2010 World Cup
	Posted by | tourism
	Ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa, the United Nations tourism agency is teaming up with FIFA to help promote development across the African continent. The heads of FIFA, the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and the UNWTO ST-EP Foundation (Sustainable Tourism – Eliminating Poverty) are preparing a partnership to assist African countries within the framework of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

28-MAR-07·	SA sees surge in tourism in 2006
	Posted by | tourism
	More than eight million tourists visited South Africa in 2006, Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk has said. He said this was as a result of South African Tourism’s focused marketing strategy. "Once more, South African Tourism's focused marketing strategy has delivered phenomenal results".

28-MAR-07·	Non-graded small hotels get life line for 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	Non-graded small establishments have received a life line to register with MATCH – a FIFA appointed company to ensure the provision of accommodation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa. MATCH announced the final two separate agreements for hotel and non-hotel accommodation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa.

28-MAR-07·	Hospitality sector moving confidently towards 2010
	Posted by | tourism
	The boost in the country’s tourism levels, as well as its knock-on effect on hotel accommodation, shows that the hospitality industry is moving confidently towards the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa. “We are moving confidently towards 2010 and beyond and will be focusing on skills development and our staff to ensure a consistent world class delivery,” said Helder Pereira, Managing Director of the Southern Sun.

20-MAR-07·	SA tourism occupancy rates up by 6.4% in 2006
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa’s tourism sector saw an increase of 6.4 percent in the occupancy rates at hotels, caravan parks and other accommodation last year, compared to 2005. Figures released by Statistics South Africa this month revealed that the number of stay unit nights sold during 2006 increased from 17 227 200 individual stays in 2005 to 18 330 900.

06-MAR-07·	Non-hotel accommodation to benefit hugely from 2010 FIFA World Cup
	Posted by | tourism
	The non-hotel accommodation industry in South Africa stands to benefit immensely during the upcoming 2010 FIFA World Cup, says SA Tourism Chief Executive Moeketsi Mosola. “For the first time in history, FIFA would be contracting non-hotel accommodation such as national parks, bed and breakfast, lodges and guesthouses,” Mr Mosola said, addressing a business forum in the Free State.

27-FEB-07·	English: The International Communication Tool
	Posted by | tourism
	English is the main language of communication in South Africa as it is the language that most people from different groups are likely to understand. But for those working in the tourism sector it is particularly important to ensure that foreign visitors can also understand the particular brand of English that we speak. It is a critical skills for the tourism sector.

27-FEB-07·	SA had over than six million visitors in nine months last year
	Posted by | tourism
	More than six million people visited South Africa between January and September last year, Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism Marthinus van Schalkwyk has said. “Over 6 million people [6 055 726] visited South Africa between January and September last year, suggesting that we are well on track to surpass the annual record that we set in 2005,” he said.

23-FEB-07·	Gauteng to strengthen its position as top business tourism destination
	Posted by | tourism
	The Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA) plans to strengthen the province’s position as South Africa’s leading business tourism destination during the “Meetings Africa”, a tourism marketing platform in Johannesburg. Meetings Africa showcases products and services for conference or event organisers, venue managers and corporate travel planners.

17-FEB-07·	Limpopo seeks to exploit tourism potential
	Posted by | tourism
	Branded as “Africa’s Eden”, the Limpopo province offers massive tourism potential and rich heritage that needs to be exploited, writes Thapelo Sakoana. With five districts spread across its beautiful landscape, the Limpopo province presents a soothing setting for its residents and visitors alike.

06-FEB-07·	BEE company wins 10-year contract to feed Kruger visitors
	Posted by | tourism
	A black economic empowerment group has been given a multi-million Rand contract to run all restaurants in the Kruger National Park, in Mpumalanga. The Compass Group has signed a lucrative 10-year contract with the South African National Parks (SANParks) to operate the Kruger's 12 restaurants. Over one million visitors visit the park every year.

03-FEB-07·	BBC World to promote South African tourism
	Posted by | tourism
	South African Tourism and BBC World signed an agreement on Thursday for the British broadcaster to promote South Africa’s tourism destinations to international tourists. The promotion will essentially be an electronic marketing campaign will be flighted on BBC World with from February to July.

29-NOV-06·	Calls for more skills development to ensure sustainable tourism growth
	Posted by | tourism
	Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk has welcomed the continued growth in the tourism sector. However, in order to sustain this growth and contribute to the goals of Asgisa, he emphasised the importance of continuous investment in skills in the sector. He identifies Ireland and Thailand as countries that can provide examples for South Africa.

20-NOV-06·	African priorities top climate change agenda
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa and its continental counterparts have put African priorities at the top of the global climate agenda, says Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister, Marthinus van Schalkwyk. The minister was speaking at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) held in Nairobi, Kenya.

01-NOV-06·	Van Schalkwyk welcomes report on economics of climate change
	Posted by | tourism
	The recently released report on the economics of climate change provides new momentum to the important round of negotiations to be held in Nairobi next week, said Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk. "The Stern Review is a clarion call to all world leaders, especially those that still remain outside the Kyoto fold, to acknowledge that the overwhelming scientific and economic evidence requires urgent action.

20-OCT-06·	SA to learn from Irish and Thai examples in tourism sector
	Posted by | tourism
	South Africa could learn from the experiences of Ireland and Thailand on how to address the shortage of skills in the tourism industry. A preliminary skills report in the sector released by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism found that, like South Africa, Ireland and Thailand had in the past experienced similar challenges regarding skills shortages and relatively high levels of staff turnover.

19-OCT-06·	Call to accelerate skills development in tourism sector
	Posted by | tourism
	Delegates at a tourism-sector skills conference heard that 90 percent of the scarce skills in the tourism sector are in the high-skills level band. The main areas with shortages include technical management skills; information and knowledge management; product knowledge and language communication skills.

18-OCT-06·	Tourism industry to focus on skills development
	Posted by | tourism
	Skills development in the tourism industry will take centre stage this week when various stakeholders gather in Johannesburg to discuss growing the industry which already contributes seven percent towards the GDP, and has been identified as one of the key sectors targeted in the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa -Asgisa.

13-SEP-06·	Investigations begin into tourism sector labour conditions
	Posted by | tourism
	The Department of Labour has begun a series of public hearings in the Free State on working conditions and wage levels in the province’s hospitality sector. The hearings are to give feedback on the suggestions given earlier this year to the Employment Conditions Commission (ECC) on a proposed sectoral determination.

23-AUG-06·	Pre-2010: Enrolments spike for Tourism and Hospitality Courses
	Posted by | tourism
	Proactive South Africans are gearing up for careers in tourism and hospitality ahead of the Soccer World Cup 2010, according to INTEC College. The distance learning institution has seen a rapid spike of over fourty percent in enrolments in its tourism and hospitality courses in the past two years.

30-MAY-06·	Empowerment to be fast-tracked in tourism industry
	Posted by | tourism
	The tourism industry is gearing for transformation to ensure racial diversity in business ownership and development, with clear priorities outlined in this regard.

22-MAR-06·	Mlambo-Ngcuka urges tourism sector to drive growth
	Posted by | tourism
	Deputy President, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, has urged the tourism sector to work even harder in driving the country’s economic growth, saying that the sector was poised to make the nation great.

14-SEP-05·	Local chef teaches disabled to cook
	Posted by | tourism
	Professional Chef Johannes Kaledi with 24 years of experience has undertaken to mentor and impart his cooking skills to seven young people with disabilities, free of charge.

31-AUG-05·	Innovative tourism and hospitality school opened
	Posted by | tourism
	Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka has officially opened the R47m School of Tourism and Hospitality at the University of Johannesburg, built with the support of leisure boss Sol Kerzner.

14-MAR-05·	Mpumalanga to open tourism academy
	Posted by | tourism
	Nelspruit - Tourism and hospitality industries in Mpumalanga are set for new heights with the opening of a training tourism academy here.

01-DEC-04·	Tourism BEE scorecard on track
	Posted by | tourism
	The Tourism Black Economic Empowerment Scorecard steering committee has confirmed that it will deliver to government a draft BEE scorecard for the tourism sector soon.

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