Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has sought to reassure African travellers following a wave of anti-foreigner protests in Durban and other parts of South Africa, some of which have turned confrontational and violent.
Her remarks come just days before the start of the Africa Travel Indaba, one of the continent’s flagship tourism events, set to take place in Durban from next Monday to Thursday.
Speaking at the official launch of the event at the MSC Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal, De Lille acknowledged growing unease among international visitors but emphasised that South Africa remains a welcoming destination.
Recent demonstrations, largely centred around concerns over illegal migration, have drawn condemnation from local authorities as well as international figures, including leaders from Ghana and the United Nations Secretary-General.
De Lille highlighted the importance of African travellers to the country’s tourism sector, noting that they account for approximately 70% of all arrivals. She said government efforts are ongoing to strengthen continental relationships through initiatives such as tourism trade fairs.
However, she conceded that perceptions of xenophobia present a challenge that cannot be ignored.
“The perception of xenophobia is something Cabinet must pronounce on in terms of the official position of South Africa,” De Lille said.
She reiterated that while the right to protest is protected under the Constitution, demonstrations must remain peaceful. Government, she added, has a responsibility to address the concerns raised by protesters while working towards solutions that promote social cohesion.
“We must show that we have listened to grievances and find ways for communities to coexist peacefully,” she said.
The Africa Travel Indaba is expected to draw tourism stakeholders from across the continent and beyond, with authorities hoping the event will proceed without disruption.