The Acting High Commissioner of South Africa to Ghana, Mpshiri Setlhare, has highlighted the growing importance of tourism and business travel in strengthening relations between the two countries.
Speaking at a corporate engagement hosted by South African Tourism in partnership with Marriott International at the Accra Marriott Hotel, Setlhare said tourism continues to play a significant role in deepening economic and cultural connections between Ghana and South Africa.
Addressing corporate leaders, tourism stakeholders and members of the media, she noted that the relationship between the two countries extends beyond diplomacy into trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges.
“Our relationship goes beyond tourism; it is about building a future where Africa stands united — where we explore each other’s lands, cultures and opportunities,” she said.
Setlhare pointed to the visa waiver introduced in November 2023 as a major catalyst for travel growth between the two countries.
“The numbers tell a powerful story,” she said. “From January to December 2024, visitor numbers from Ghana to South Africa grew by an impressive 149 percent compared with the same period in 2023.”
She described the growth as evidence of the impact of strong partnerships between governments, tourism bodies and the private sector.
“This is a testament to what is possible when we remove barriers and open doors,” she added.
The event formed part of efforts by South African Tourism to strengthen engagement with corporate Ghana and position South Africa as a destination for both leisure travel and business events.
During the programme, Thekiso Rakolojane, West Africa Regional Manager of South African Tourism, encouraged Ghanaian travellers to explore the country beyond its most famous cities.
He highlighted the diversity of South Africa’s nine provinces and the cultural richness of its more than 60 million citizens.
“South Africa is much more than Cape Town and Johannesburg,” he said, noting that every province offers unique attractions ranging from wildlife and adventure tourism to culture, heritage and cuisine.
Rakolojane also invited Ghanaian travellers to consider visiting the country during the upcoming Easter holidays.
“South Africa awaits — come find your joy,” he said, echoing the destination’s global tourism campaign.
Also speaking at the event was Sakhile Ndlovu, National Convention Bureau Business Development Coordinator at South African Tourism, who highlighted the country’s strong credentials as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.
He noted that South Africa’s modern convention centres, extensive hospitality sector and diverse attractions make it an ideal destination for corporate gatherings and international events.
“South Africa is ready for your meetings, your conferences and your business events,” he said.
Jeanette Moloto, Director of Global Sales for South and Sub-Saharan Africa at Marriott International, also emphasised the role of hospitality partnerships in supporting tourism growth across the continent.
The event also featured a presentation by Ghanaian entrepreneur Harold Awuah-Darko of Polistas Hospitality, who showcased the African Polistas Polo Experience, highlighting the rise of experiential luxury tourism in Africa.
Guests later enjoyed a specially curated four-course culinary experience presented by celebrated South African chef Wandile Mabaso, who introduced a menu designed to showcase the culinary connections between Ghana and South Africa.
As the evening concluded with networking among business leaders and tourism stakeholders, the message from organisers and speakers was clear: stronger partnerships between African nations will be key to unlocking the continent’s tourism potential.
