Cape Town – Cabinet has approved the appointment of a new South African Tourism (SA Tourism) Board, with the three-year term beginning this week as the government seeks to strengthen the organisation’s leadership and support tourism growth.
The Tourism Ministry said the appointments were made under Section 13 of the Tourism Act, 2014, and published in Government Gazette No. 55176.
The new Board took office on 11 August 2026, following the conclusion of the interim Board’s term.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said the appointments brought together expertise in tourism, destination marketing, governance, finance, risk management, digital transformation, technology and the public sector.
“I am confident that the collective expertise, diversity and experience of the newly appointed Board will provide the strategic leadership required to strengthen South African Tourism,” said de Lille.
The Minister said the Board’s focus would include strengthening governance and financial oversight, supporting digital innovation and improving South Africa’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.
Tourism Growth Partnership Plan
She also stressed the distinction between the Board’s non-executive responsibilities and the day-to-day management of the organisation, which remains the responsibility of executive management.
“I look forward to working with the Board as we continue to position South Africa as a destination of choice for travellers and investors from around the world,” she said.
The new Board is expected to support the implementation of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan, with the broader objective of increasing visitor numbers, attracting investment and creating jobs.
De Lille also thanked the interim Board for overseeing SA Tourism during the transition.
“On behalf of Government, I wish to thank the Board that was appointed in the interim for its professionalism, dedication and invaluable service over the past year,” she said.
The Ministry said the new leadership would be expected to help ensure tourism contributes more significantly to inclusive economic growth.
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Compiled by Glaan Sibuyi
