Negative narratives threaten South Africa's tourism industry

TOURISM experts have warned that South Africa's hospitality and business sectors must move away from a mindset of underselling their brand to the world, especially in light of recent comments at the White House claiming the country is a “violent nation.”

- THABO MAKWAKWA

Last week, the world watched as President Cyril Ramaphosa’s delegation to the Oval Office sought to counter narratives suggesting genocide in South Africa. During the meeting, delegation members took turns explaining the country’s ongoing violence, a move that some believed complicated Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille’s efforts to attract more visitors and boost the nation’s economy.

The meeting followed controversial allegations by President Donald Trump, who linked South Africa to “genocide” and made a decision to offer refugee status to minority Afrikaners, claiming they faced persecution.

Some experts and organisations, including the MK Party and the EFF, have said these statements have contributed to the negative perception of South Africa internationally.

In response to questions about the potential impact of these comments on tourism, the Department of Tourism declined to comment directly.

De Lille’s spokesperson, Tasneem Carrim, stated that only the department’s marketing unit would respond but no response had been received by publication.