R12 million boost for Constitution Hill’s People’s Park as Tourism Minister declares sector a 'central pillar' of SA economy

The National Tourism Department has revealed a R12 million investment in the development of Constitution Hill’s People’s Park, which is set to serve as a symbolic counterpart to the gardens at the Union Buildings.

South Africa marked World Tourism Day with celebrations at Constitution Hill’s People’s Park on Saturday, where Minister Patricia De Lille declared that tourism is not just an add-on sector, but a central pillar of the country’s economic policy.

Speaking under this year’s theme, "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation," De Lille said the sector continues to drive jobs, investment, and pride, while creating inclusive opportunities across communities.

Tourism Minister Patricia De Lille said recent figures showed that between January and June 2025, domestic holiday trips rose by 14%, contributing R15.4 billion to the GDP.

Over the same period, South Africa welcomed five million international visitors, generating nearly R49 billion in spending. She says in July alone, international arrivals surged by 26% compared to last year.

De Lille saidthe introduction of an Electronic Travel Authorisation system, set to roll out next month, is expected to attract an additional one million international visitors. This, she says, will create up to 100,000 additional jobs in a sector that currently sustains 1.8 million jobs and contributes 8.8% to the GDP.

Tourism Month also coincided with South Africa’s G20 Presidency. The inaugural Tourism Investment Summit unveiled eight infrastructure projects valued at nearly R1 billion, with more expected in the pipeline.

Looking ahead, the country is set to host major global events, including the LIV Golf Tournament in Gauteng next year and the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2027.