South Africa’s tourism industry is celebrating a fresh start with the appointment of a new board and the confirmation of Nombulelo Guliwe as the permanent CEO. This development comes after a period of instability, with the previous board dissolving in April 2023 due to various concerns.
Guliwe, a seasoned finance professional with extensive experience in SA Tourism, has been serving as acting CEO since September 2023. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce, an Honors Degree, and is a qualified Chartered Accountant.
The new board, led by Chairperson Makhosazana Khanyile, comprises diverse expertise. It includes six females and five males with qualifications ranging from master’s degrees to PhDs. This diverse representation reflects the commitment to inclusivity within the tourism sector.
Industry leaders have welcomed the appointments with optimism. Tourism Business Council Board Chairperson, Jerry Mabena, expressed his belief that the new board and CEO will “stabilise and carry forward the organisation’s operational imperatives,” ultimately enhancing South Africa’s image as a top tourist destination.
Similarly, SATSA CEO, David Frost, commended the collaborative and thorough appointment process, highlighting the crucial role of the private sector working alongside the new leadership. He emphasized the importance of this collaboration in driving sustainable growth, improving visitor experiences, and ensuring the widespread distribution of tourism benefits within communities.
The industry sees this as a significant step forward for South Africa’s tourism sector, a key driver of job creation and economic growth. Stakeholders are confident that the new leadership will champion the industry’s priorities, including targeted marketing, improved visitor experiences, fostering domestic tourism, and creating job opportunities.
Sandile Ntseoane, General Manager of the Southern African Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (Savrala), believes these appointments will enhance stability within the tourism ecosystem and accelerate the sector’s growth. He emphasized the collaborative potential between the new leadership and various stakeholders, particularly in initiatives aimed at extending tourist stays, diversifying travel destinations, and boosting spending within the country.
