Thembisa Shologu
The Gauteng government will prioritise destination marketing to drive increased international arrivals, domestic trips and generate revenue out of the visitor economy as part of bolstering its tourism sector.
Addressing the Legislature at the State of the Province (SoPA) in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, Premier Panyaza Lesufi said this would drive increased visitor arrivals, with positive spinoffs for job creation and building Gauteng’s destination competitiveness.
This sector is anticipated to generate over R120 billion from international arrivals and R50 billion from domestic tourism, while creating over 10 000 jobs over the next three years.
“Together with the creative economy, we will increase tourism demand in this province by generating new and engaging tourist experiences and raising awareness of lesser-known locations such as the Constitutional Hill, Maropeng, the Cradle of Humankind and Dinokeng.
“To contribute towards the realisation of these prospects, we have initiated and fully resourced the #VisitGAUTENG – Zwakala campaign that will extend to other key markets,” said Premier Lesufi.
Furthermore, the provincial government is determined to bid and host high-impact significant events in categories of sport, arts, culture and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) in bringing back the spirit of making Gauteng the destination of choice.
“As Gauteng, we view these as an invaluable part of our economic development. We have allocated R40 million for bidding for and possibly hosting major sporting events that will stimulate the economy and inspire the youth.
“We will continue to support our home-grown events like the Soweto Marathon, City to City Marathon, 94.7 Cycle Challenge, 702 Walk the Talk, Joy of Jazz, the DSTV Delicious Festival and the Festival of Motoring to promote the province’s potential as a world-class city,” he said.
SOURCED FROM THE GPG WEBSITE.
