Johannesburg – Gauteng, South Africa’s lively province, has experienced a significant economic boost following a highly successful weekend of sporting and creative events. The #SportingGP and #CreativeGP events attracted nearly 200,000 attendees, contributing an estimated R318 million to the provincial GDP and visitor economy in just three days.
The weekend started with the inaugural Music & Lifestyle Expo at the Sandton Convention Centre, followed by the 179th Soweto Derby at the iconic Soccer City. Concurrently, the capital city hosted the final leg of the African Football League at Loftus Stadium to a packed audience.
These events, along with the Friends of Amstel festival in the West Rand and the U’R event at Constitution Hill, underscore Gauteng’s commitment to leveraging its sports, creative, tourism, and hospitality sectors for economic growth. “Our strategy, as directed by the Premier, is multifaceted: stimulating the economy, creating sustainable jobs, and addressing youth unemployment,” stated Tasneem Motara, Gauteng MEC for Economic Development.
Gauteng’s appeal as a lifestyle destination is bolstered by its exceptional sports teams, creative talents, and world-class infrastructure. While lacking traditional natural attractions like mountains or oceans, Gauteng’s true allure lies in its diverse population of over 15.5 million people. The vibrant atmosphere at Soccer City and Loftus Stadiums this weekend perfectly encapsulated the essence of Gauteng and South Africa.
Sthembiso Dlamini, CEO of the Gauteng Tourism Authority, highlighted the province’s global appeal: “In front of FIFA and CAF presidents and a worldwide television audience, Gauteng demonstrated its status as a home of champions and a premier destination for hosting global events.”
The success of these events is attributed to the investment in economic infrastructure, workforce reskilling initiatives, and collaborative marketing efforts. The province extends its gratitude to sports fans, security personnel, hospitality staff, broadcasting partners, and volunteers for making Gauteng an attractive business and leisure destination.
The momentum continues with upcoming events like the Crown Gospel Music Awards in Soweto and the Ride Joburg 94.7 Cycling Challenge. “These consistent events not only sustain our industry but also create a sense of permanence vital for a resilient visitor economy,” concluded Dlamini.
Enquiries: Barba Gaoganediwe, Spokesperson Gauteng Tourism
0834467844
barba@gauteng.net
@Barba_G74 on twitter
124 Main Street, Marshalltown, Johannesburg
www.gauteng.net
Follow us on Twitter: @visitgauteng on Facebook at ilovegauteng and @visitgauteng on Instagram and Tiktok using #visitgauteng #GPLifestyle #SportingGP
About the Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA) GTA is the official destination marketing agency for the Gauteng City Region. Its mission is to effectively, efficiently and professionally grow the visitor economy and enhance visitor’s experiences by branding, marketing and promoting tourism in Gauteng; bidding for and hosting mega, major, significant, local, and community events; and providing and managing visitor information services.
