Johannesburg – Tourism remains one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, including across G20 nations. However, climate change – a key priority under South Africa’s G20 Presidency is
reshaping how destinations must prepare for the future.
As South Africa’s economic heartland, Gauteng is positioning itself as a resilient, inclusive, and innovative hub for sustainable tourism ahead of this critical world leaders’ summit.
Gauteng MEC for Finance & Economic Development, Lebogang Maile, highlighted the province’s recognition of climate change’s direct impact on tourism – whether through water scarcity, extreme weather patterns affecting outdoor activities, biodiversity loss at heritage sites, or the need for climate-smart tourism ventures in townships and tourism nodes.
“These challenges are global, but they also present opportunities,” said Maile. “As leaders representing more than 78% of the world’s population gather here, Gauteng is ready to showcase
solutions and mobilize collective action.”
The province’s Growing Gauteng Together 2030 strategy provides a framework for urban tourism and sustainability initiatives—creating eco-conscious experiences, green buildings, cultural districts powered by renewable energy, and low-carbon events.
Similarly, Gauteng’s tourism development strategy emphasizes cultural and heritage preservation, policy alignment, and strong public-private-community partnerships. With thousands of G20 delegates, media, and diplomatic representatives in Johannesburg this week, Gauteng is spotlighting opportunities for venture financing of climate-smart, innovative tourism projects that drive inclusivity and resilience.
“Tourism in Gauteng is not just about visitors – it’s about legacy, resilience, and shared prosperity,” said GTA CEO Sthembiso Dlamini.
Recent initiatives underscore this commitment includes:
- Launch of the Smart Visitor Information Centre at OR Tambo International Airport by Tourism Minister Patricia De Lille recently
- GTA’s Visit Gauteng mobile app
- Green transport solutions integrated into various cities’ rapid bus systems
Tourism startups and SMMEs – eco-lodges, green mobility, digital booking platforms – need financing. Gauteng aims to position itself as a hub for impact investment, supporting youth
entrepreneurship and women-led tourism ventures through infrastructure and digital economy financing mechanisms championed by the South African G20 Presidency and partner nations.
“Sustainable tourism must benefit local communities, create decent jobs, and support skills development with business models that are profitable and socially just,” concluded Maile. Ends//
Enquiries:
Barba Gaoganediwe, Spokesperson – Gauteng Tourism
083 446 7844 | [email protected] | @Barba_G74
124 Main Street, Marshalltown, Johannesburg
www.gauteng.net
